Performance
The 24-valve flat-six boxer engine engineered specifically for the Cayman achieves each objective. Its low center of gravity augments the superb chassis in which it resides. The two-piece block is diecast in lightweight aluminum with integrated oil and water channels. This simple solution eliminates the need for drilling or external hoses, possible sources of failure. Other solutions are more complex: The crankshaft bearing bridge, for example, is a composite structure of two metals: aluminum to cut weight, and cast-iron inserts to reduce temperature- related changes in bearing play.
The 2.7-liter engine in the new Cayman generates 245 horsepower, while 201 lb.-ft. of torque arrives at just 4600 rpm and stays with you to 6000 rpm. The Cayman S is armed with 3.4 liters of total swept volume and a maximum of 295 horsepower at 6250 rpm. Maximum torque is 251 lb.-ft. at 4400 rpm.
Such power is derived from a two stage resonance induction manifold that optimizes the air charge as rpm’s rise, and by our patented VarioCam Plus, which adjusts valve timing and lift. Naturally, high-tech electronics also play a role. Fuel injection and ignition are controlled by the Motronic ME 7.8 engine management system, while an electronically operated throttle applies power with precision.
VarioCam Plus
VarioCam Plus is a remarkably innovative system that continually adjusts valve timing for optimum performance. Key benefits include increased power and torque at all speeds, better gas mileage and a smoother-running engine with fewer exhaust emissions.
VarioCam Plus combines variablevalve timing with two-stage lift on the intake side. The two-stage valve-lift function is performed by electro-hydraulically operated switchable tappets. Each of these 12 tappets consists of concentric lifters which can be locked together by means of a pin. The inner lifter is actuated by a small cam lobe, while the outer ring element is moved by a pair of larger-profile lobes. The timing of each valve is seamlessly adjusted by means of an electro-hydraulically operated rotary vane adjuster at the head of each intake camshaft.
Valve timing and the valve profile are continuously altered according to conditions and engine load. For improved responsiveness on cold starts, VarioCam Plus raises the amount of lift and retards valve timing. At medium revs with minimal loads, the valve lift is lowered and timing advanced to help minimize fuel consumption and emissions. For maximum power and torque, the lift is raised and the timing is advanced.
All operations are managed by a powerful electronic control unit that maintains peak engine operation by making necessary adjustments in fractions of a second. Onboard diagnostics also provide continuous monitoring and early detection of potential faults in the exhaust and fuel supply systems—ensuring that, when it comes to protecting our environment, the Cayman never skips a beat. Even during times when your heart skips several.
Manual Gearbox
At the controls of a Cayman, every driver input is met with an immediate and smooth response. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than the performanceoriented six-speed transmission.
Rapid shifts are executed through a short-throw mechanism designed to let you extract maximum torque from each of the ideally spaced gear ratios. The gearbox is driven through a dual-mass flywheel that minimizes noise in the drivetrain. Noise is further reduced by the cable-operated gear linkage which insulates the lever from the engine and gearbox.
Tiptronic S
The highly advanced Tiptronic S transmission is available in both Cayman models as an option. This versatile gearbox combines fully automatic five-speed operation with the capability of manual control.
In automatic mode, Tiptronic S has five distinct gearshift patterns ranging from “Economy” to “Sport.” Depending on driving style and the topography of the road, Tiptronic S selects one of its five patterns and applies the optimum sequence of gearshift points. Even in automatic mode, the rapid gear-shift action ensures a fast and agile response. Within a short space of time, the driver will develop a feel for the system and learn to influence the gearshifts using the throttle alone. In manual mode, the driver can change gears by hand using rocker controls located on the steering wheel. Gearshifts are completed in about 0.2 seconds with virtually no interruption in drive — very comparable to a well executed gearshift in a manual transmission car. Even with the shifter in automatic mode, you can still change gears manually using the rocker switches on the steering wheel. If there is no manual input for a period of eight seconds, the system reverts to automatic mode.
When the car is started, a warm-up program increases the speed of the engine to bring the catalytic converters up to temperature. Other useful Tiptronic S functions include gearshift suppression when cornering, automatic downshifts during heavy braking, an incline sensor for better uphill acceleration and downhill engine braking, and automatic upshifting when traction is threatened during braking on wet roads.
Engine Management
Dry-sump Lubrication
Dry-sump lubrication is race-proven technology that reduces engine operating temperatures and ensures a reliable supply of oil, even when gravity is overpowered by lateral g-forces. A pump supplies oil from an internal reservoir located within the block to the lubrication points throughout the engine. Oil is then extracted by two scavenger pumps, one dedicated to each cylinder head, and returned back into the reservoir. Narrow return lines defoam the oil before it is collected in the integral sump, which helps to restore the oil’s lubrication properties and maintain pressure in the self-adjusting tappets.
The Cayman is equipped with an electronic oil-level indicator that allows you to check oil pressure and temperature from inside the car with readings so precise, a dipstick is not required.