Buying a Porsche Cayman - advice / experience?

[tvlaan]

I’m about to pull the trigger on a Porsche Cayman and after reading dozens of topics on Porsche forums, thought I’d check here to see what some more “everyday” users think.

I have narrowed down to the following (all have pros/cons). In ascending price order, all with pdk.

2015 981 CPO Cayman S - 7k miles (no sport Chrono, basic wheels, Warranty until 2020)
2017 CPO 718 Base (loaded) 13k miles (sport chrono, 20” black Carter’s wheels, warranty until 2023)
2016 CPO 981 Cayman S - 35k miles (sport Chrono, wheels, exhaust, warranty until 2021)
2018 718 S - 1.5k miles (sport chrono, basic wheels, warranty until 2021)

I’ve driven both the 981s and the 718 base and enjoyed both. The exhaust of the 718 didn’t bother me and I assume it’ll be nicer in the 718 S. Don’t know if I just want the 718 S on paper or if it will really be noticeably better and hold its value better (worth the extra $12k?).

Just going to be a fun 3rd car, never tracked. Probably sell in 3-4 years.

Thoughts?

[Carrera911]

All but the 2015 will take a hit with depreciation in 3-4 years.
I think it's likely that the 2015 will give you the best value for money.

[GB-man]

I prefer the NA 2015 by a long shot but from your description the base 718 will be the best fit. You never need the s version if you won't be chasing lap times on a track. My client advisor whom I trust actually told me at the launch that he was advising clients to just get the base as its a great car for a really competitive price.

[tvlaan]

In terms of the purchase prices I’ve negotiated, the 981s and the 718 base are within $3k. Both started with nearly the same sticker - the 718 is much better equipped.

Wondering is the 981 has some premium baked in right now as people “want” the NA engine.

Thoughts on the necessity of sport Chrono or wheels? I’m fine without them, but for resale?

[The Joker]

981 NA all day long. Looks better than the 718 too.

What colours are they?

[tvlaan]

Originally Posted by The Joker

981 NA all day long. Looks better than the 718 too.

What colours are they?

Rhodium silver (981s)
Agate gray (718)
Agate gray (981s)
Midnight blue (718s)