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Porsche Cayman & Dodge Viper Comparison

Porsche Cayman Overview

Ever since Porsche introduced the midengine Boxster as a return to the "affordable" Porsche, enthusiasts have been clamoring for a hardtop version. Pleas were finally answered with the 2006 debut of the Porsche Cayman. Based on the second-generation Boxster, the Cayman coupe (whose name is said to reference an alligator indigenous to Central and South America) shares much of its mechanical midengine underpinnings with its drop-top sibling.

The Porsche Cayman combines its drop-dead gorgeous looks with brakes that beg to be pushed hot into a corner, a chassis that gladly guides the driver around the apex and a choice of two engines that will enthusiastically sing as they slingshot you down the straightaway. Some of our editors who have driven the Cayman extensively report that its well-balanced chassis could actually handle considerably more power, and it's suspected that Porsche limited the Cayman's capabilities as not to overlap with its seminal 911.
If there's a complaint, it's that the Cayman is priced considerably more than its competitors, especially when a host of desirable options are selected.

The midengine Porsche Cayman is offered in two models, the base Cayman and the Cayman S. The base Cayman is powered by a 2.7-liter six-cylinder boxer engine that produces 245 horsepower and 201 pound-feet of torque, backed by a five-speed manual transmission. Optional on both models of the Cayman is a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode.

When it comes to the suspension, the Porsche Cayman takes advantage of its stiffer-than-a-convertible structure by offering a level of handling and nimbleness that is a step above the capabilities of the Boxster. Safety aids include antilock brakes, traction control and stability control, all tuned to intervene only when absolutely necessary so as not to detract from the sporting nature of the Cayman. Optional is Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which, via a variety of sensors, electronically and automatically adjusts the suspension to optimize either comfort or handling, depending on the setting and the driver's level of aggression. Larger wheels and tires round out the suspension options and help to improve braking. Braking performance is further enhanced on the Cayman S by optional carbon-ceramic brakes.

The interior accommodations take their cue from the Boxster and offer the typical Porsche combination of sport and luxury, with leather and metallic accents decorating the cabin. The leather-appointed seats possess the ability to both hold the driver in place during spirited maneuvers and to coddle driver and passenger during more serene outings. High-end audio and navigation are available on both Cayman models, though the base stereo offerings are disappointing for a car in this price range.

Dodge Viper & Porsche Cayman Comparison

Performance

In terms of horsepower, the Dodge Viper packs quite a wallop and will knock the Porsche down a few rungs. On the flip side, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling

The Dodge Viper has considerably wider tires than the Porsche Cayman. Keep in mind that bigger tires can improve handling, while narrower tires could provide better handling in deep snow. With its tighter turning radius, the Porsche Cayman is doubtless more maneuverable than the Dodge Viper, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, note that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain

The Porsche Cayman's engine is tremendously smaller than the Viper's. Remember that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; on the flip side, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix. The Porsche could learn a lesson or two from the Dodge Viper with respect to pickup. The Dodge Viper packs quite a punch compared to the Porsche with respect to torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly.

Utility

Neither the Dodge Viper nor the Porsche Cayman has a marked advantage regarding seating capacity.
Convenience
You will have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Dodge than with the Porsche Cayman.

Comfort

Taller drivers will substantially enjoy the extra head room in the Porsche Cayman's front cabin compared to the Dodge Viper.

Dimensions

The Dodge Viper is substantially more ponderous than the Porsche Cayman. The Porsche Cayman's tank is approximately the same size as the Viper's, though the Dodge Viper's is slightly bigger. The Dodge Viper rides lower than the Porsche Cayman, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Porsche Cayman and the Dodge Viper compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost

The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Porsche Cayman to the dealership as the Dodge Viper. Regarding fuel economy, the Porsche beats the Dodge Viper. As far as MSRP, the Dodge Viper costs substantially more than the Porsche. The Viper will cost you a bundle in gasoline every year compared to the Porsche Cayman.

Overview

The basic warranty that comes with the Dodge isn't quite as generous as the Cayman's 

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