Porsche Cayman / Cayman S 987

The 987 Cayman is the best-handling car most people will ever drive. The mid-engine layout, combined with Porsche's legendary steering calibration, creates a driving experience that is addictive and educational simultaneously. The car teaches you to trust your inputs, to be smooth, and to explore the limits progressively. On track, the Cayman makes you feel like a hero because its feedback is so clear and its balance is so intuitive.

The IMS bearing issue on 987.1 models is a cloud that hangs over every purchase decision. The cost of Porsche maintenance is significant — everything from oil changes to brake pads costs more than the domestic or Japanese competition. And while the Cayman handles like a dream, its flat-six power is merely adequate — the base 2.7L car genuinely needs more power on long straights. The Porsche dealership experience can also be frustrating for track car owners who are viewed as second-class customers compared to GT3 buyers.

Porsche enthusiasts, PCA Club Racing participants, drivers who value handling purity above all else, and anyone who has a budget for Porsche-level maintenance.

Budget-conscious track drivers, people terrified of IMS bearing failure (buy a 987.2), or anyone who wants big V8 power on the straights.