The Porsche Cayman (987c), specifically the 2.9-liter variant producing 265 horsepower, represents a significant refinement of the first-generation Cayman (987). Introduced in February 2009 as part of a comprehensive facelift, this model year brought styling updates, interior enhancements, and importantly, engine improvements. Positioned as the mid-range offering in the 987.2 lineup – sitting between the base 2.9-liter 255 hp model and the high-performance Cayman R – it aimed to deliver a compelling balance of everyday usability and Porsche’s renowned driving dynamics. Production continued through November 2012, solidifying its place as a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a pure sports car experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Cayman |
| Generation | Cayman (987c, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.9 (265 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2009 |
| End of production | November, 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 221 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 22 sec |
| Maximum speed | 265 km/h (164.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 199.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 7200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 4400-6000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 4400-6000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.20 |
| Engine displacement | 2893 cm3 (176.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 23 l (24.3 US qt | 20.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 305 kg (672.41 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4347 mm (171.14 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1978 mm (77.87 in.) |
| Height | 1304 mm (51.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2415 mm (95.08 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 318×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 299×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/55 ZR 17Rear wheel tires: 235/50 ZR 17 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7 J x 17Rear wheel rims: 8.5 J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2009-2012 Porsche Cayman 2.9 (265 Hp) represents a pivotal point in the 987 generation. The facelift, internally designated as the 987.2, addressed criticisms leveled at the original 987, primarily concerning engine responsiveness and interior quality. This variant, powered by Porsche’s naturally aspirated 2.9-liter flat-six engine, offered a compelling alternative to the base 2.5-liter model, providing a noticeable increase in power and torque. It was designed to appeal to drivers who desired a focused, engaging sports car experience without the higher price tag of the more potent Cayman S or R models. The 987.2 Cayman, in general, benefited from direct fuel injection (DFI) and a revised engine management system, contributing to improved efficiency and performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 265 hp Cayman lies the MA1.20 engine, a 2.9-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine is a direct evolution of the earlier 2.7-liter unit, but benefits from direct fuel injection (DFI), a key upgrade in the 987.2 generation. DFI allows for more precise fuel metering, resulting in improved combustion efficiency and increased power output. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The engine’s boxer configuration – with cylinders opposed horizontally – contributes to a low center of gravity, improving handling balance. The 265 hp version produced 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 4400-6000 rpm. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual, though a 5-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission was also available. The automatic transmission featured manual shift capability, allowing drivers to select gears for more control.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.9-liter Cayman with the manual transmission delivers a classic sports car driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.5 seconds, and it reaches a top speed of 164.66 mph. While not as brutally quick as the Cayman S, the 2.9-liter engine provides ample power for spirited driving on both the road and the track. The engine is eager to rev, and the linear power delivery makes it easy to modulate throttle inputs. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, does slightly diminish the sense of connection to the car. Gear changes are smooth, but not as immediate as with the manual. The chassis is well-balanced, and the steering is precise and communicative, providing excellent feedback to the driver. The mid-engine layout contributes to neutral handling characteristics, making the Cayman a joy to drive at the limit.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 265 hp Cayman came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their cars to their preferences. Popular options included Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with navigation, bi-xenon headlights, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Sport Chrono Package, a popular choice, added a stopwatch on the dashboard, a sport mode button that sharpened throttle response and suspension settings, and launch control for faster acceleration. Upholstery options ranged from standard cloth to full leather, and a variety of interior color combinations were available.
Chassis & Braking
The 987.2 Cayman utilizes a McPherson strut suspension at both the front and rear. The suspension geometry was refined during the facelift to improve handling and ride comfort. The car features ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The 2.9-liter Cayman typically featured smaller rear brake rotors compared to the Cayman S, but still offered excellent braking performance for its weight class. The chassis is constructed from a combination of steel and aluminum, providing a rigid and lightweight platform.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2009-2012 Cayman 2.9 (265 Hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its balanced handling, responsive engine, and overall driving experience. Compared to the base 2.5-liter Cayman, the 2.9-liter model offered a noticeable improvement in performance and refinement. The Cayman S, with its larger engine and more powerful brakes, provided even greater performance, but at a significantly higher price. Fuel economy was respectable for a sports car, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing, a common concern for earlier Porsche models.
Legacy
The 987.2 Cayman 2.9 (265 Hp) has established itself as a desirable used sports car. Its combination of performance, handling, and relative affordability has made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. The 987.2 generation, in general, is considered to be a significant improvement over the original 987, and the 2.9-liter variant offers a sweet spot in the lineup, providing a compelling balance of performance and value. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal.
