For years the Cayman has been called the “sweet spot” of the Porsche range. Mid-engine balance, a flat-six howl, and enough performance to keep most 911s honest. But if you’re in the market today, you’re probably torn between two generations: the original 987 and its successor, the 981.

Both are brilliant. Both are affordable compared to a 911. And both have their quirks. So which one makes more sense in 2025? Let’s dig in.

A Quick Look Back

The Cayman 987 arrived in 2005, basically a hard-top Boxster but with sharper handling and a more rigid body. Over time it gained some proper highlights — the Cayman S, the R, and even special editions that showed just how good Porsche could make the platform.

Then in 2013 the 981 landed, and suddenly the Cayman felt like a mini supercar. Wider stance, sharper design, and a cabin that didn’t feel borrowed from an early 2000s VW parts bin. It was more polished, but still playful.

Style and Cabin Feel

Looks are subjective, but the 987 has aged surprisingly well. It’s simple, almost understated, and for some buyers that’s a plus. Inside, though, you can definitely tell it’s from another era — buttons everywhere, and some plastics that don’t scream “£50k sports car.”

The 981, on the other hand, still feels current. Those swept-back headlights, the bigger intakes, the more sculpted rear — it looks like a proper Porsche coupé. Slide inside and you’ll notice the step up instantly: higher-quality materials, the rising centre console like the 918 Spyder, and a layout that still feels modern today.

If you’re tempted to freshen things up, Design911 has a full range of interior upgrades for both generations.

Engines and Performance

Here’s where the story gets fun.

• The 987 launched with 2.7-litre and 3.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-sixes. They’re free-revving, mechanical, and make all the right noises. In the Cayman R, power hit 321bhp, and it remains one of the most exciting Porsches of its time.

• The 981 stuck with six cylinders (before the later 718 brought turbos), but power crept up. The base 2.7 made 271bhp, while the S produced 325bhp, and the GTS a healthy 340bhp. With direct injection and a wider torque band, the 981 feels stronger in everyday driving, not just at the top end.

On paper, the difference doesn’t look huge, but behind the wheel the 981 feels more muscular, more refined, and more forgiving if you’re not wringing it out all the time.

Behind the Wheel

The 987 is raw. Hydraulic steering gives it that old-school Porsche feel — every bump and camber comes through the wheel. Some will call it twitchy, others will call it alive. Either way, it’s a proper analogue driving experience.

The 981 is a different animal. Yes, the steering went electric, and purists will argue it’s not as communicative, but the chassis more than makes up for it. It’s stiffer, more composed, and has grip levels that belong on a track car. You can daily a 981 comfortably without feeling like you’ve sacrificed the fun.

Looking to tighten up the handling? Design911 carries everything from suspension upgrades to brake kits to sharpen either car.

Things to Watch Out For

• 987: Early models can suffer from the dreaded IMS bearing (less common than in the 996, but still worth checking). Bore scoring is also a known issue, especially on high-mileage cars. Suspension components and cooling systems wear with age too.

• 981: Largely more robust, but not bulletproof. You’re dealing with more electronics, and when they go wrong, it can be pricey. That said, the engines are stronger and less prone to catastrophic issues.

Staying on top of maintenance is key. Design911’s stock of engine parts and cooling upgrades makes preventative work far easier.

Cost of Ownership

This is where the two really split.

• You can find a decent 987 from around £15k, and even tidy Cayman S models don’t break the bank. Running costs are manageable if you keep up with servicing.

• A 981 will start closer to £25k, and the desirable GTS cars are heading north quickly. You do get a newer platform, and arguably better long-term value retention.

Fuel economy is a touch better in the 981, but realistically you’re buying one of these cars for the grin factor, not the mpg.

Future Values

The 987 Cayman R is already moving into collectible territory. Standard cars are still bargains but may creep up as enthusiasts realise how much car they are for the money.

The 981 feels like a safe bet long-term, especially the GTS and manuals. They might never be cheap, but they’re unlikely to fall off a cliff either. And as Porsche continues its move towards turbocharging and electrification, naturally aspirated flat-sixes will only become more desirable.

So, Which One’s for You?

If you want a car that makes every drive an event, something raw, connected, and relatively affordable — the 987 is your car.

If you’d prefer something you can use every day, that still delivers thrills but with modern comfort and quality — the 981is worth the extra cash.

Either way, you’ll end up with a Porsche that feels special without stretching to 911 money. And whichever you choose, there’s no shortage of parts and upgrades available at Design911 to keep it running sweet or turn it into your dream Cayman.