Brand new, more hardcore versions of two Porsche models rarely come bundled up together in a single debut. That's why when the Germans announced the Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS today we stood up and took notice. Here's what we found out!
The coupe and convertible twins have more of everything that counts when you're trying to make great sportscar: power, looks and reputation. Based on the 3.4-liter flat-six "S" versions of their respective models, bot GTS models get updated engines which now produce 15 hp more than before. For the Boxster GTS, that means 330 hp, while the Cayman GTS packs 340 hp. Torque is also up by 10 Nm (7 lb-ft) to 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) in the Boxster GTS and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) in the Cayman GTS.
Fitted with the standard Chrono package and the optional PDK gearbox, the fastest Boxster ever takes 4.7 seconds to reach 100 km/h, being 0.1 seconds slower than the Cayman GTS. Finding a rival for this thing is going to be really hard, but a close match, on paper at least, would have to be the M235i. With an automatic, BMW's finest takes 4.8 seconds to 100 km/h, though the price gap between the two is quite considerable. AMG and RS badged rivals do exist, but they both have all-wheel drive and are based on FWD architectures.
GTS models are not only fast to 100 km/h but also produce some amazing top-end numbers. The Boxster GTS stops only once it's achieved 175 mph (281 km/h) while the streamlined roof on the Cayman allows it to top out at 177 mph (285 km/h).
Cosmetically, both GTS models come with black 20-inch alloy wheels borrowed from the 911 Carrera S, tinted headlights and taillights, tweaked front and rear bumpers and, inside the cabin, sports seats with Alcantara and leather trim. It's not fitted as standard because it would ruin the everyday practicality, but Porsche offers a 20-mm lowered suspension for track use.
You can order both in a number of different colors but the striking dark red will probably be most easily associated with the GTS. Sales of both newcomers will start this May after their debut at the New York Auto Show. In German Porsche dealerships, prices will start at €69,949 for the Boxster GTS and €73,575 for the Cayman GTS.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News