FastMotoring Motor News In Speed
The new top-of-the-range model for Porsche mid-engine coupes – Porsche Cayman R was first debut during 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show and it is now officially launched in Malaysia by CEO of Porsche Malaysia, Mr. Arnt Bayer. Since after Sime Darby took over the importer-ship in March 2010, Porsche Malaysia has done many exciting things to drive the Porsche brand in Malaysia to even greater heights by introducing many great models in Malaysia.
The snappy flat-six (boxer engine) Cayman R now comes with +10bhp and 55kg lighter than the Cayman and Cayman S. The modifications that make up the Cayman R includes:-
– New exhaust system
– Improved engine sound
– New engine control
– More aggressive gas throttle/pedal mapping
– More radical gearshift strategy for Porsche double-clutch transmission (PDK)
After the upgrades, the Cayman R specification as below:-
– 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine with 330 hp (243 kW) @ 7,400rpm and 370 Nm of torque @ 4,750rpm
– Rear wheel drive; six-gear manual transmission, 7-speed Porsche double-clutch transmission (PDK)
– Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, 4.9 seconds with PDK
– Top speed 282 km/h, 280 km/h with PDK
– Fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.7 l/100 km, 9.3 l/100 km with PDK
The main aim during the design of the Cayman R was to improve the two-seater even further in its performance, driving dynamics and agility through consistent weight reduction. In Malaysia, the Porsche Cayman R comes standard with air-conditioning system, audio head-unit system, 19 RS Spyder Wheels, 20mm sports suspension, rear differential lock, 7-speed PDK transmission, Sport Chrono package, and Park Assist. The Cayman R is retailing in Malaysia and priced at RM630,000 (before optional upgrades); RM40,000 extra compared to the Cayman S.
Overall, the vehicle weight of the Cayman R was reduced by 55kg to a DIN empty weight of 1295kg compared with the Cayman S. After adding the air-conditioning system, audio head-unit system and park assist to the car for Malaysian market, the Cayman R weight slightly more now. Moreover, potential owners of Cayman R can also opt for optional lithium-ion lightweight construction battery (for further weight reduction) and optional ceramic discs upgrades (for better braking capabilities). The interior colours can be specifically make-to-order based on customer liking. Drivers that preferred to drive with manual transmission just like me, you can also order the Cayman R in 6-speed manual transmission too (if you want).
The Cayman R uses aluminium doors as used in the 911 Turbo and it saved a further 15kg. The front luggage compartment bonnet is also made from aluminium shell structure. CFRP light bucket seats with improve the driver’s side support in bends contribute to a further weight reduction of 12kg compared with the conventional seats used in the Cayman S. The reduced door trims without storage compartment and with door opening strap, dispensing with the instrument cluster cover and the cup-holder in addition to a wide range of minor measures round off the lightweight package. Cayman R provides the same passive safety system like all other Porsche cars; it comes standard with 6 airbags and POSIP, which is short for Porsche Side Impact Protection. Porsche Stability Management (PSM), also standard on Cayman R, it is specially calibrated to intervene later in the driver’s panic threshold, which makes the car wildly entertaining, yet still safe to drive.
The Cayman R’s purpose and perfectionist character can be seen at first glance. The extended outline of the bodywork, which has been lowered by 20mm compared to the Cayman S, combined with the unique fixed rear spoiler, the high-quality 19″ RS Spyder Wheels and numerous sporting emphases in both the interior and exterior ensures an distinctive appearance. Personally, the styling of Porsche stickers on the side outstand the entire Cayman R similar to the 911 GT3 RS with GT3 RS stickers on the side.
Comparing the tracking experience, this Porsche Cayman R is nowhere close to the 911 GT3 RS after a drive in Sepang International Circuit. However, this mid-engine Cayman R is absolutely fun after its entire upgrades. The engine is responsive with nice exhaust note, the handling is sharper than Cayman S, and the ride quality is reasonably comfortable for daily drive as a sports coupe.
Photo Gallery: 2011 Porsche Cayman R Malaysia
