New BMW M2 vs Porsche Cayman GTS: verdict
These fire-breathing sports cars are the last of their kind – so, which one should you give a home to before its extinction?...
Our verdict
We can see why the M2 has won so many fans; it feels every inch the baby M car it sets out to be, with aggressive performance and balanced handling. For many, its everyday usability will make it a near-perfect sports car proposition.
For sheer thrills, though, the M2 can’t match the Cayman. The latter is sharper and more rewarding to drive, as well as having a more exciting soundtrack. By putting a bigger smile on your face, it better fulfils the sports car brief.
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1st – Porsche Cayman GTS
For More agile handling; sounds fantastic; more comfortable ride; plenty of personalisation options
Against Lacks crucial safety equipment; has only two seats
Recommended options Porsche Entry & Drive (£546)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Porsche Cayman review >>
Porsche Cayman deals >>
2nd – BMW M2
For More practical; better equipped; quieter cruiser; cheaper to buy and run
Against Driving position won’t suit everyone; not as much fun to drive
Recommended options M2 Comfort Package (£730)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
BMW M2 review >>
BMW M2 deals >>
Specifications: BMW M2 3.0 manual
Engine 6cyl, 2993cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 453bhp at 6250rpm
Peak torque 406lb ft at 2650-5870rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 4.5sec
30-70mph through the gears 3.5sec
Top speed 155mph
Braking 30-0mph 7.8m
Braking 70-0mph 42.0m
Noise at 30mph 68.0dB
Noise at 70mph 73.3dB
Kerb weight 1775kg
Tyres (standard) 275/35 R19 (front), 285/30 R20 (rear)
Test economy 28.1mpg
Official economy 28.0mpg
Fuel tank 52 litres
CO2 emissions 228g/km
Specifications: Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 manual
Engine 6cyl, 3995cc, petrol
Peak power 394bhp at 7000rpm
Peak torque 310lb ft at 5000-6500rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 4.3sec
30-70mph through the gears 3.6sec
Top speed 182mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.3m
Braking 70-0mph 42.6m
Noise at 30mph 66.0dB
Noise at 70mph 73.4dB
Kerb weight 1480kg
Tyres (standard) 235/35 R20 (front), 265/35 R20 (rear)
Test economy 31.0mpg
Official economy 25.9mpg
Fuel tank 64 litres
CO2 emissions 247g/km