Bring a Trailer Bargain of the Week: 2007 987 Porsche Cayman
Given how well their resale value holds, some might think secondhand Porsches are unaffordable. However, not every used Porsche is expensive, and that includes its sports cars. One model, in particular, is often found at reasonably affordable prices. And this week, there’s one up for sale on Bring a Trailer: a 2007 987 Porsche Cayman.
A used 987 Porsche Cayman is a fun mid-engine sports car that rivals the 911
While the rear-engine 911 is Porsche’s most iconic car, some critics argue that it’s not necessarily the German brand’s best sports car. In terms of balance and fun, the mid-engine Cayman is regularly considered the 911’s equal, if not it’s better. And that’s been the case since the first-gen 987 Porsche Cayman debuted in 2006.
At first, the 987 Porsche Cayman was only available in 295-hp, 3.4-liter flat-six Cayman S trim. But in 2007 came the base Cayman, with a 2.7-liter flat-six engine rated at 245 hp and 201 lb-ft of torque. And while the 987 Cayman S has a standard six-speed manual, that was optional on the base Cayman, which came standard with a five-speed manual. As a result, the base model goes 0-62 mph in 6.1 seconds, 0.3 seconds slower than the S, Road & Track says.
Besides the smaller engine, the 987 Porsche Cayman also has smaller front brakes than the S and a softer suspension tune. And it doesn’t have quite as much standard equipment. However, it’s also 88 pounds lighter than the Cayman S, Car notes. Plus, with a softer ride, the 987 Cayman is more forgiving on rough roads than the Cayman S.
Also, a base 987 Porsche Cayman is still a mid-engine Porsche sports car. To quote Autocar, its “high-speed stability is superb and noticeably better than the [contemporary] 911’s.” Even with the retuned suspension, the base car “delivers crisp handling,” R&T reports, and the smaller rotors don’t noticeably affect braking performance. There’s also plenty of feedback through the steering wheel. And the five-speed transmission gives up little, if anything, to the six-speed, Car says.
There’s a 2007 model for sale on Bring a Trailer
To be fair, the modern 718 Cayman has more tech and more power than the 987 Porsche Cayman. The older car, though, has a critical advantage over the new one (disregarding the GT4): that sweet flat-six engine.
But the five-speed 2007 Cayman currently listed on Bring a Trailer offers a little more than that. Besides the coupe’s standard equipment, it has 18” Cayman S wheels, leather upholstery, heated seats, and automatic climate control. It also has the Sound Package Plus, which adds extra speakers, a more powerful amplifier, and CD storage in the glovebox. And it rides on H&R lowering springs. Those are the only modifications besides the paint protection film.
Besides being mostly stock, this 2007 987 Porsche Cayman has less than 76,000 miles on the clock. It also has a zero-accident history. And BaT reports that the seller has addressed several maintenance items in preparation for the sale. Besides changing the oil, they also replaced the tie rod ends, sway bar links, shocks, tires, and the battery.
This used 987 Porsche Cayman might be a bargain buy, but will it be expensive to maintain?
As of this writing, this 2007 987 Porsche Cayman is listed on BaT for $22,000 with three days left in the auction. To be sure, you can find cheaper Caymans, but not significantly cheaper ones. On BaT, the average used Cayman hovers closer to $30,000. Considering this car’s condition and mileage, it’s a true bargain.
Given that it’s a used Porsche sports car, some might be wary of bidding on it. As always, we recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection beforehand. Additionally, this 987 Cayman is a ‘987.1’ car, which means it has an M97 engine with an intermediate shaft, PCA explains. The phrase ‘IMS failure’ sparks fear for many potential Porsche owners, as it can mean buying a new engine.
However, it’s worth noting that IMS failures are often overblown, and affect the Cayman less than the 911. Also, in 2007, Porsche gave the 987 Cayman a stronger IMS bearing, further reducing failure rates, Motorious says. And while 987.1 engines can suffer from cylinder scoring and leaking rear main seals, the 2.7-liter engines are less prone to the former. Based on the BaT post’s description and comments, this 2007 Cayman appears to suffer from neither.
In short, this 2007 987 Porsche Cayman offers 911-level fun and handling at a fraction of the price. And while some parts can be pricey, in this spec, this coupe should be just as affordable to maintain.
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