Thursday, November 18, 2010

2011 Porsche Cayman R

As anticipated, Porsche has revealed a range-topping Cayman at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Named the Cayman R, the formula is a familiar one: reduce weight and increase power.





Compared to the Cayman S, the Cayman R is 55 kg (121 lbs) lighter while the 3.4 litre engine now produces 325 bhp (243 kW / 330 PS) - an additional 9 bhp (8kW / 10 PS). With the standard six-speed manual gearbox, that means the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time drops from 5.2 to 5.0 seconds, but buyers can turn to the Porsche options list to get that down even more.



Go for the seven-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission, and another 0.1 of a second is shaved off. A side effect is that fuel consumption is slightly improved too, with the PDK-equipped car recording a combined cycle figure of 30.4 mpg (9.3 l/100km) compared to 29.1 mpg (9.7 l/100km) for the standard Cayman R.





Top speed of the Cayman R is 175 mph (282 km/h) with the manual gearbox, or 174 mph (280 km/h) with PDK.



Also available is a Sport Chrono package, which will further reduce the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time to 4.7 seconds. Interestingly, that’s exactly the same time as the 911 Carrera S manages.



The interior leaves you in no doubt that the Cayman R has been on a diet. Lightweight sports seats are fitted, helping to reduce the overall weight of the car by 12 kg. Some comforts have been dispensed with though, and there’s no air conditioning or cup holders. Even the small plastic shroud over the instruments has been ditched. Porsche don’t bother with a stereo either, but one can be specified as a zero-cost option.





Visually, the R is distinguished by its fixed rear spoiler, lightweight 19” alloy wheels, side graphics and black headlight surrounds and door mirrors. 20 mm lower suspension also gives it a more purposeful stance.



The Porsche Cayman R is due to reach showrooms in early 2011. The UK price has been confirmed at £51,731, a premium of £5,102 over the Cayman S.

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