Is the Porsche Cayman the same as the 718?

[Curtis]

Porsche Cayman and 718 are not the same model. The following are the differences between Porsche Cayman and 718: Version-wise: Cayman is the hardtop coupe version, while Boxster is the soft-top convertible version. The Cayman is Porsche's entry-level two-door hardtop model developed based on the Boxster, positioned between the Boxster and the 911 Carrera. The name 'Cayman' refers to the caiman, known for its strength, agility, quick reactions, and precise attacks. Pricing-wise: The new Porsche 718 is positioned below the brand's most affordable sports car, the Boxster/Cayman.

[JulietLynn]

Previously I studied Porsche's model lineup, and the current 718 series actually integrates the original mid-engine sports cars Boxster and Cayman. That is to say, 718 Cayman is the full official name of the current model, just as 718 Boxster represents the convertible version. When Porsche adjusted its product line in 2016, it prefixed both entry-level sports cars with 718, paying homage to classic models while unifying the naming. So now when buying a new car, the official designation for Cayman is 718 Cayman. However, enthusiasts still tend to omit the 718 and simply say Cayman in conversations, especially when referring to pre-981 generation models.

[Alana]

It wasn't until I accompanied a friend to order a car that I finally understood this relationship. The salesperson pointed to the mid-engine sports car in the showroom and said, 'This 718 Cayman S has just been transferred to our test drive fleet.' At the time, I was puzzled about when the Cayman had been renamed. The salesperson explained that this was part of Porsche's new naming convention introduced in 2016. Now, all four-cylinder versions are grouped under the 718 series, while retaining Cayman as the specific model identifier. Interestingly, the used car market reflects this change clearly. Models produced before 2016 are still called Cayman, while those produced afterward have '718 Cayman' engraved on their nameplates. So when looking at used cars, you can easily distinguish them by the production year—a 2015 model is called Cayman, while a 2017 model is inevitably labeled 718 Cayman.

[DiEmma]

From an evolutionary product perspective, the current 718 Cayman actually belongs to the 982 generation, completely replacing the 981-generation Cayman. Porsche's rebranding isn't just about labeling—the powertrain has also been upgraded to a four-cylinder turbocharged engine. While enthusiasts may miss the sound of the naturally aspirated six-cylinder, the 718 designation signifies more advanced chassis tuning and electronic systems. The most visible distinguishing feature is the '718' badge on the vehicle's flank, and the instrument cluster displays '718' when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono package. Therefore, when purchasing a Cayman at the dealership today, the contract will definitively list the standard name: 718 Cayman.

[ElliottRose]

Those who have browsed Porsche's official technical documentation will notice that the manufacturer's database now only lists the 718 Cayman model number, with no separate Cayman classification. An interesting detail: on the vehicle's nameplate, the 'Engine Type' field for the 981 generation reads 9A1 (the code for the six-cylinder engine), while the 982 generation is labeled H4 (the code for the horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine) along with the 718 designation. It's advisable to pay special attention to this nameplate difference when buying used, as it directly impacts maintenance costs and parts selection. By the way, last year when helping my cousin look for a car, a 10-year-old Cayman was priced 150,000 yuan lower than a same-year 718 Cayman—those in the know understand these are different generation products.

[StLuke]

The seasoned veterans in the tuning scene know this difference all too well. When you invite a 718 Cayman for a mountain run, you must emphasize the 718 designation—this signifies your car is the post-2016 version equipped with a VTG turbo, and the ECU tuning has different boost presets. Last week at a track day, I witnessed firsthand how a 718 Cayman S, on PS4S tires, effortlessly clocked faster lap times than a 981 Cayman GTS. Although the rear badge might be debadged for a cleaner look, the 7th character in the VIN reveals its true identity: the 982 generation starts with J/K, while the 981 generation begins with a U. Car enthusiasts understand these nuances.