Porsche Boxster or Cayman, which 718 GTS 4.0 would you choose?

Posted 23rd May 2023

Porsche Boxster or Cayman, which 718 GTS 4.0 would you choose?

Upon the announcement of the 718 GTS 4.0, an instant question was raised for many Porsche enthusiasts: what would you choose when deciding between the Boxster and the Cayman?

Both models feature the same 4.0-litre engine that is found in the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder, but with a factionally lower state-of-tune resulting in 394 bhp.  This six-cylinder, horizontally opposed, naturally aspirated engine produces an authentic throaty noise that we have come to associate with all the great Porsche engines.

What is the difference between the 718 GTS and the 718 GTS 4.0?

As the names suggest, the simple difference between the 718 GTS and the 718 GTS 4.0 is the engine. The 2017 GTS model had a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine with an optimised turbocharger and developed intake duct which generated a power output of 360 hp. The latest GTS 4.0 produces 394 hp, resulting in the Cayman accelerating from 0-62 mph in 4 seconds with the Boxster close behind in 4.5 seconds.

The similarities of the GTS 4.0-litre models to the 718 Cayman GT4 and the 718 Spyder do not end there, with them featuring the same twin tailpipe sports exhaust system, with integrated gasoline particulate filter. However, the twin tailpipe styling conforms to the traditional GTS styling ethos to create a dynamic aesthetic worthy of the GTS badge.
 

2018 Porsche Cayman GTSOld Cayman GTS

2021 Porsche Cayman GTSNew Cayman GTS

Both the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 and Cayman GTS 4.0 continue to sport 2 seats, a surprisingly spacious boot at the front of the car, and incredible handling characteristics. However, with the increased power from the larger engine, the 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and the Boxster GTS 4.0 can now reach a top speed of 182 mph. 

Subtle nods to the GTS DNA are scattered gently throughout the design of the 718 GTS 4.0 models. For example, the 20-inch Satin-Gloss Black wheels create an emphasis on the sporty personality of the cars. However, the wheels are now 235/35 at the front and 265/35 at the rear, a change from the old model’s makeup which was 235/45 on the front tyres and 265/45 on the rear tyres, allowing the new GTS 4.0 models to deploy a small amount of additional power.

718 Boxster GTS

Cayman GTSNew Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0

718 Boxster GTS RoadsNew Porsche Boxster GTS 4.0

Exhilarating top-down thrills or speedy fastback fun?

The obvious difference between the two models is that the 718 Cayman is a fastback coupé, and the 718 Boxster is a roadster. However, beyond that, there isn’t much to distinguish between the two models. As a result, both the Cayman and Boxster are highly desirable as part of the Approved Pre-Owned stock at our Porsche Centres in Bristol, Newport, Swindon and Tewkesbury.

Both the Boxster and the Cayman offer a front boot space capacity of 150-litres, which is more than enough for your weekend luggage. It should be said that the Cayman does offer slightly more in terms of visibility than the 718 Boxster when its roof is up, but that’s being very picky as the roof is not remotely in the way - and with the Boxster, you obviously get the added benefit of open-top thrills when the weather plays ball!

In the past iterations of the Cayman and Boxster, the entry-level model of the Cayman had a more powerful engine compared to the equivalent Boxster. Nowadays, Porsche has ensured that both equivalent models share the same engine regardless of whether they have a hard or soft top. The result? Endless fun is on offer whichever model you choose.

The Purebred Mid-Engined Sports Car

The interior features of the 718 GTS 4.0 models certainly back up the performance statistics. Porsche Communication Management comes standard on the GTS 4.0 models. This includes a 7” high resolution touchscreen to provide you with all the information required whilst you focus on the driving. It doesn’t end there either, as also included as standard is the Sports Chrono Package, which includes the enhanced Track Precision App, opportunity for different driving modes, as well as the iconic chronograph clock located in the centre of the car’s dashboard.

The 718 GTS 4.0 models are the perfect representation of the brand’s design excellence, inside and out. From the GTS inspired all black logos, dynamic sports exhaust, and GTS styling, to the sleek, black-tinted Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. Porsche’s exceptional attention to detail is evident for all to see.

Red brake calipers are cross-drilled and feature high performance 6-piston aluminium monobloc fixed calipers on the front axle, and 4-piston aluminium monobloc fixed calipers on the rear axle. For those wanting to get even more performance out of their GTS 4.0, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) option is available to upgrade the braking system - perfect for those who enjoy driving on track.

Cayman GTS 4.0

Turning to the inside of the new 718 GTS 4.0 models, upon examining the interior you can clearly see the skilled implementation of dark Alcantara® to add to the car’s aesthetic through exquisite detailing. Alcantara® is used throughout the car’s interior, in components including the steering wheel, Sports Seats Plus panels, gear lever, centre console, as well as covering the roof lining and A-pillars.

If you are a Porsche owner that has a particular affinity for a truly unique interior, there is an option to select the GTS interior package, which adds Carmine Red or Chalk stitching on all decorative seams for added luxury detail. Included in the GTS interior pack is the GTS emblem embroidered on the headrests, as well as the option to have your chosen colour on the rev counter and seat belts.

Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman GTS 4.0 Prices

The final difference between the two is the price. The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 starts at £68,700, while the Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 is from £70,700.

If you still can’t decide, the best way to decide which model is right for you is to get in touch with one of our friendly experts who will talk you through the 718 model lineup.  To find out more information, contact us at Porsche Centre Bristol, NewportSwindon, or Tewkesbury by clicking the button below.

Enquire now

For more information, please contact your local Porsche Centre:

Porsche Centre Bristol -
01173 216 780

Porsche Centre Newport - 
02920 606 512

Porsche Centre Swindon - 
01793 398 525

Porsche Centre Tewkesbury - 
01684 880 104

Share this article

Related articles