2012 Porsche Cayman R: For the purest of purists

For years, Porsche has been criticized for building vehicles for the masses rather than for purists. The outcry started in 2002 with the Cayenne, then gained strength more recently with the Panamera. Yet, Porsche’s efforts to generate more sales and make more money doesn’t take away from its ability to offer unique vehicles – and the 2012 Porsche Cayman R is proof positive of that.

Buyers looking for an entry-level Porsche generally opt for the Boxster, the little cabriolet with the big fanbase. Meanwhile, purists tend to opt for the Cayman coupe; it uses the same parts as the Boxster, but with an added touch of sportiness. But if you’re a true purist and you feel the need to own a more radical Porsche for less than $100,000, you can set your sights on the 2012 Cayman R, a model designed for racetrack enthusiasts.

• Also: Porsche Launches the new Boxster and Cayman GTS

The Cayman R’s main feature is its lightweight design. Essentially, it’s a Cayman S that has shed 121 lbs. (55 kg). Instead of increasing capacity, Porsche decided to bank on weight-to-power ratio.

More outgoing and animalistic

Style-wise, the Cayman R’s colours are nothing if not unique. Our test version came in the most original and eye-catching of colours: metallic Peridot green. This really accentuated the car’s singular appearance. Why have they shied away from classic colours? If you’re shelling out for a sports car, you want to make sure you get noticed! The Cayman R is decked out with several different features to draw attention to its increased sportiness, but this extra equipment isn’t just for show: it also makes the car more dynamic.

The R has a more aggressive front end and the side air intakes are highlighted with contrasting colours. In back, the regular Cayman spoiler that deploys automatically according to speed has been replaced with a fixed spoiler, also in a contrasting colour. Note the lighter design of this supercar’s 19-inch wheels.

Race car-inspired

To get a lighter, higher-performance car, Porsche decided to do away with a few interior features. Gone are the air conditioner, cupholders and sound system (though all remain available on option if can’t live without them). Despite the striking colours on the outside, take one look at the interior and you’ll know for sure that this car has a rebellious nature. You’d almost think you were looking at a race car, minus the roll bars. Other efforts to make the car lighter include replacing the door handles with red nylon bands that match the classic seatbelts. Porsche didn’t go so far as to use three-point seatbelts.

The dashboard remains similar to the Cayman’s, but the R features a unique three-spoke steering wheel. There’s no doubt, however, that the nicest feature of the Cayman R is the seats. Their configuration is a lot like racing seats, with very aggressive lower and side support, and the mould is made of carbon fibre. Forget about multifunction power seat adjustment. These seats are designed to keep you in place, and that’s about it. However, climbing in and out of the Cayman R is easier said than done, especially for ladies in mini-skirts.

So, it’s clear that Porsche has optimized both the interior and the exterior for performance. But you’re still wondering: “What’s under the hood?” The Cayman R is equipped with the same engine that powers the Cayman and Boxster S, namely a 3.4-L six-cylinder.  However, to give the car a little more prestige, it develops 10 more horsepower for a total of 340. This engine is normally paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, which is the one to go for if you’re a true purist. However, on option, there’s the PDK sequential gearbox, which shaves off a few hundredths of a second off the 0-100 km/hr time, but also prevents you from having total control over the car. The choice is agonizing.

Exemplary handling

The Cayman R isn’t a marketing scheme designed to squeeze money out of well-to-do clients. If you’re only buying this model because you want to be seen in a unique car, you’re going to have to deal with its none-too-comfortable seats as well as its suspension, which is not well suited to Canadian road conditions. Basically, you’ll have to make a lot of concessions for the sake of performance.

However, if you want a car to take for the occasional spin on the track and if first-rate performances are what you’re after, this is the car for you. Press down on the accelerator and you’ll be pinned to your seat. Meanwhile, the engine’s rich sound will be a constant reminder that you’re not driving any ordinary vehicle. The Cayman R will captivate you with its impeccable handling, even when pushed to the limit. It’s extremely well-balanced thanks to near-perfect weight distribution, and few automobiles grip the payment as well as the Cayman R. When coming out of turns, the accelerator’s exceptional response almost begs you to do another lap. The limited slip rear differential improves performance and optimizes rear wheel actuation on irregular surfaces and when accelerating out of turns.

Admittedly, the Cayman R isn’t as powerful as the other members of the 911 line, but its agility is noteworthy. Moreover, as our winter test drive demonstrated, it can be used all year long, which is unusual for this type of vehicle. But who would want to equip it with snow tires and expose its body to the rigours of our climate?

Do you dream of owning a model made for the track, like a 911 GT3 or GT2? Not everyone can afford the $150,000 or $200,000 price tag! With its $75,500 base price, the Cayman R is a much more “accessible” performance car.