2012 Porsche Cayman: Keeping it Basic and Fun to Drive!

Oh, another Porsche review. Who can afford one anyway?

Like the iconic 911 that is offered in at least five variations and additional price increases on each one, the Cayman comes in a base, S, R, and a Black Edition. However, because this article places a premium on the joy of driving for 'reasonable money,' it features the base 2012 Porsche Cayman.

Even though it is the entry-level model, this Cayman is expensive at an MSRP of $51,900. However, buy one that is 3-4 years old and the price can be $25,000-$30,000 for essentially the same car.

What do I mean by 'essentially' the same car and why might it be worth the money? The Cayman has a mid-engine layout and chassis that shines in the handling department. It is a driver's (enthusiast) car all the way. It might not be as fast as a 911 (although it is plenty quick), but the Cayman is well suited to drivers who want a basic but fun drive.

So what does the two-seat mid-engine rear-wheel drive 2012 Porsche Cayman have to offer?

The engine is a 2.9-liter flat six-cylinder providing 265 hp and 221 ft. lb. of torque. The transmission is a great shifting six-speed manual. The car's 0-60 mph time is in 5.5 seconds and it has a top speed of 165 mph.

The Cayman's windshield is well raked. At the front it looks a bit like the 911 but with elongated headlights and a more subdued air dam. The side profile appears to be somewhat Ferrari like with its curves and air intakes in the rear fenders. At the back there are curved fenders with teardrop taillights. A large single exhaust pipe exits from the Cayman's center. Overall, to my eyes, the Cayman is not as serious looking as a 911 but the car's looks fit its fun to drive character. The car's wheelbase measures 95.1 inches, and don't forget, the Cayman has 'trunks' at both the front and the back. Thus, it is quite a practical sports car for a driver and a passenger.

The interior of this Porsche is modern and provides a good driving environment. Three large gauges supply the driver with the necessary information. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The majority of controls and the navigation screen are contained in the center console.

The brakes are discs at each corner measuring 12.5 inches at the front and 11.9 inches at the rear. The Cayman's 60-0 mph stopping distance is in 120 feet. The tires measure 235 50 17 inch.

The suspension at the front and back consists of modified MacPherson struts combined with gas shock absorbers and anti-roll bars.

Standard features on the Cayman include two-way power driver and passenger seats, power windows, door locks and mirrors (heated), air conditioning, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, front reading lights, cruise control, outside temperature indicator, universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc,), two 12 volt power outlets, rear defogger, charcoal air filter, cargo area light, front reading lights, AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo and four speakers, speed sensitive volume control, radio data system, pre-wiring for a phone and more.

Safety features on the Cayman include ABS brakes, electronic brake force distribution, emergency brake assist, traction and stability control, driver and passenger air bags, front side air bags, side curtain air bags, child seat anchors, remote anti-theft alarm system, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitoring and more.

On the road the Cayman provides a well planted and balanced drive with some of the best handling in the business. The driver really feels connected to the road as the steering provides excellent response and feedback. The engine is powerful enough for spirited back road driving as well as comfortable long distance highway cruising. The transmission makes clicking off the gears an easy but precise affair and the brakes add to the feeling of quality German engineering.

Overall, the Cayman may not be the absolute best in any one area but as a package, it does everything at a high level. A level that makes driving the car a real pleasure!

The fuel rating of the Cayman is 19 city and 27 mpg highway.

If you want to get back to more of a pure driving experience without no choice packages of features that 'water down' the appeal to your senses, the Cayman is a sports car to consider!

And remember, used Cayman's provide the same basic fun but cut the price.

View the slideshow to see the 2012 base Porsche Cayman inside and out!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.