# Porsche Cayman — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Porsche Cayman on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/porsche-cayman

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: Cayman S
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £49,000

## Why this model

The Porsche Cayman is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a pure driver's car. Its mid-engine layout gives it incredible balance and handling, making it a joy on twisty roads. It's got that special Porsche feel, great build quality, and holds its value remarkably well for a sports car. Plus, it's practical enough for weekend trips with its two boots!

## What you should pay

The verified price anchor for a 2020 Cayman S with 30-50k miles is around £49,000. While the used car market has seen some softening, performance Porsches like the Cayman tend to hold their value better than many other brands. This price represents a significant saving over new, having absorbed the steepest part of the depreciation curve. Expect some variation based on spec, mileage, and condition, but aim for this ballpark.

## Which trim to buy

The Cayman S hits a real sweet spot. The 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four engine offers a significant power bump over the base 2.0L, making it much more engaging to drive without the much higher price tag of the GTS 4.0. It's quick, sounds great (for a four-cylinder turbo), and often comes with desirable options like PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) or Sport Chrono, making it a truly rewarding package for the money.

## What to check before you buy

- PDK transmission issues (rare but expensive, check service history for fluid changes)
- Suspension components (bushes, dampers) wear, especially on cars driven hard
- Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., infotainment glitches)
- Water pump leaks (less common on 718 generation but worth checking)
- Coil pack failures (can lead to misfires)

## Running costs

Running a Cayman isn't cheap, but it's manageable for a performance car. Fuel costs will be around £0.20 per mile (based on 31.7 mpg and £1.50/litre petrol). Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model will be around £320-£360 annually, depending on specific CO2 emissions. Insurance can be high, typically ranging from £800 to £1500+ per year depending on your age, location, and no-claims bonus. Servicing at a Porsche main dealer is expensive, so consider reputable independent Porsche specialists for better value.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 350 hp
- **Mpg**: 31.7 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Above Average
- **Safety Rating**: Excellent structural integrity and advanced safety features, though no specific Euro NCAP rating for the Cayman.

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Cayman (Base) | £45,000 | £40,000 | 2.0L turbocharged flat-four engine (300hp); 18-inch alloy wheels; Partial leather interior |
| Cayman S | £55,000 | £49,000 | 2.5L turbocharged flat-four engine (350hp); 19-inch alloy wheels; Larger brake system |
| Cayman GTS 4.0 | £68,000 | £60,000 | 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six engine (400hp); Sport Chrono Package; PASM Sport Suspension (lowered 20mm) |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £49,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £45,570 | 93% |
| 2028 | £42,370 | 86% |
| 2029 | £39,400 | 80% |
| 2030 | £36,640 | 75% |

Buying a 3-4 year old Cayman means you've let the first owner take the biggest hit on depreciation. Porsches tend to hold their value better than many other sports cars, so while you'll still see some value loss, it's much more manageable than buying new. The curve shows a steady, rather than dramatic, decline from this point.

Total value lost since new: 25.2%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Alpine A110](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/alpine-a110.md)
- Audi TT RS
- BMW M2 Competition

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.