We put the 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 through a full track program to gauge lap time consistency, handling balance, and driver confidence. Tested with the 6-speed manual on stock Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, the GTS faced back-to-back hot laps, data-logged with a VBox on our 2.0-mile road course.
Under the engine cover sits a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six rated at 394 hp and 309 lb-ft, revving to 7,800 rpm. Our test car featured the 6-speed manual, PASM with a 20 mm drop, Porsche Torque Vectoring with a mechanical limited-slip differential, and standard iron brakes (350 mm front/330 mm rear). Curb weight as tested with fuel and data gear was approximately 3,160 lb. Conditions were ideal: 72°F ambient, dry track, light crosswind.
We set cold tire pressures to 28 psi front/29 psi rear, stabilizing at 34/36 psi hot. Alignment was factory, PSM used in Sport for the first session and fully off for time runs. Fuel load began at half tank. We ran three 20-minute sessions with cool-down laps and captured lap timing via VBox.
Best lap on stock Michelin PS4S was 1:32.4, with repeatable 1:33.0–1:33.5 laps over a 10-lap stint, indicating strong thermal resilience. Peak steady-state lateral acceleration reached 1.06 g in medium-speed sweepers. Straight-line pace is modest versus turbo rivals, but the car’s time comes from braking stability and exit speed—data showed consistent >0.95 g through the long right-hander where others taper as tires heat. Handling is neutral with a whisper of entry understeer that converts to rotation as you trail brake and bleed steering.
Mid-corner balance is superbly adjustable with small throttle changes; the mechanical LSD helps the car drive off tight corners cleanly without chaotic inside-wheel spin. Steering is precise and progressive, with useful feedback through the rim despite the electric assist—small corrections register immediately without nervousness over curbing. The 6-speed manual enhances the experience. The tall gearing means most of the lap is 3rd and 4th, reducing shifts and helping consistency; the clutch bite is high but predictable, and auto rev-match (disabled for testing) is accurate when desired.
Brakes were a highlight: firm pedal, very linear bite, and no fade in the first two sessions. In the final session, after 18 minutes, we noted a slight lengthening of pedal travel—well within control—but track regulars should upgrade to high-temp fluid (e.g., DOT 4 racing) and consider a more aggressive pad. Outer shoulder wear suggests the chassis would benefit from more front negative camber for extended lapping. Overall, the Cayman GTS 4.0 excels as a driver’s tool: approachable at the limit, communicative, and consistent over a session.
It won’t set straight-line records, but it converts every ounce of grip into lap time with minimal drama. For frequent track use, add track fluid, camber plates, and a Cup 2 tire; expect a 1–1.5 second improvement while preserving the car’s inherent balance and confidence.
