Cayman S Track Car Shows Potential of 987 Platform
Larger 3.8-liter 911 engine paired with suspension and brake upgrades transform the Porsche Cayman S into an undeniable track weapon.
It’s hard to believe it but the 987-generation Porsche Cayman S has been with us since 2006. Through 14 years and three generations, the Cayman has been a huge hit for Porsche. And despite the company’s best efforts to the contrary, the coupe version of the Boxster has no doubt cannibalized some 911 sales along the way. The Cayman may have to make do with less power than its older, more established 911 stablemate, but it’s hard to argue with the model’s ideal mid-engine chassis configuration that makes a more predictable driver’s car than the rear-engine 911. It’s not at all surprising that the mid-engine sports car has become a favorite platform for track junkies.
This track-built 2006 Cayman S was built by Kachel Motor Company for their customer Erik. Posted by 6 Speed Online forum user Apex Race Parts, the Cayman has been upgraded from top to bottom, inside and out. By far the most notable modification is the 3.8-liter M97 engine from a 911 bolted in place of the original 300-horsepower 3.4-liter motor. The engine benefits from a lightened flywheel, Fabspeed headers, a custom stainless steel exhaust and a better flowing intake from PCS Innovations. The newfound power is put to the ground through a Wavetrac LSD.
The Cayman’s stock suspension has been replaced with a JRZ RS Pro coilovers. The coilovers work with Tarret front and rear lower control arms, Tarret camber plates, and larger RSS sway bars and drop links. GiroDisk brake rotors, Pagid brake pads, stainless steel brake lines and a 911 GT3 master cylinder ensure that the brakes hold up under the rigors of track use. APEX Race Parts SM-10 wheels were installed that measure 18×9-inches at the front and 18×10-inches at the rear shod with sticky Pirelli DH slicks that measure 265/45-18 at the front and a generous 305/60-18 at the back. The fat wheel and tire combo tucks nicely under rolled fenders.
A lot of effort also went into making the Cayman as safe as possible during high-speed track sessions. A roll-cage and Cobra racing seats work with Schroth 6-point harnesses. There is even an OMP fire suppression system in place should things go really wrong. The exterior of the Cayman looks the part with an aftermarket front spoiler along with a rear wing and dive plates from Getty Design. Continuing the 911 theme is a GT3 hood vent. This slinky black Cayman is pretty much how we would build it if we had the budget. Prices for early Cayman’s have almost bottomed out. Shop around and you can find less than perfect examples for between $10,000 and $15,000. That’s a lot of car for the money. A stock example is just the beginning as this example amply illustrates.
