The Paris Auto Show is just behind us and the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show is drawing near. With all of the recent announcements from Porsche, it’s hard to believe they may still have a trick up their sleeve. Last year, the Boxster Spyder made its appearance at the LA Auto Show, and a new Porsche Cayman Clubsport or RS is rumored to make its appearance at the show this year. With lackluster sales and the model line needing a boost, this is most likely to be the next evolution for the Cayman.
It’s been said recently that Porsche missed the mark with the Boxster Spyder offering customers a limited edition, lightened Boxster with less features for more money than the standard model. It’s pure marketing genius for Porsche, but ultimately not the “Boy Racer” or track-enthusiast’s weapon which it was originally conceived.
So what will the Cayman Clubsport be? A stripped down, track-enthusiast’s Cayman, or a just a hard-top version of the Boxster Spyder? The new Clubsport will most likely receive some of the same treatment given to the recent Boxster Spyder such as lighter weight components, fabric door pulls, and a uniquely styled set of lightweight wheels. But why can’t Porsche make a car with absolutely no frills at a lower cost than the standard model? Could the Cayman Clubsport finally be that car?
We’ve heard rumors since early last year, but to date, nothing has come of the talk. Select Porsche sales managers and dealer representatives were reportedly shown a version of the Cayman Clubsport and briefed on model specifics. These Specifics include a 333-horsepower 3.4-liter flat six, weight savings between 160 and 180 pounds off the standard Cayman S, fabric door pulls, and new aero dynamics including fixed rear spoiler and diffuser, 20MM lower than stock ride height, an A/C and Stereo option and Clubsport side graphics – for around $66,000. Sounds a lot like the new Cayman Clubsport could be just a hard-top version of the Boxster Spyder. The European models will get what us Americans want most – a “track pack” option that includes a partial roll cage, plus harnesses and a fire extinguisher – and a Lightweight hatch including a Lexan rear window.
In the end, a Cayman Clubsport would no doubt be an affordable track-enthusiast’s weapon. Much more so than the Boxster Spyder. If the GT3 RS theory of lightening an already fantastic car is evidence, the Cayman Clubsport will be a winner. The key to this performance will be in the area of weight where the Clubsport is expected to lose up to 180 pounds off a normal Cayman. Consequently performance should be better than the Cayman S’s 0 – 62mph time of 4.9 seconds and its 171mph top speed. One could only assume the performance to be around 4.6 seconds to 62 mph and about three tenths quicker than a Cayman S. The real performance won’t be so much in a straight line, however, but in its improved handling and ability to brake later (An uprated brake option will also be available) and fly through the corners thanks to its lower weight.
If Porsche does produce a Cayman Clubsport, The LA Auto Show would be the perfect venue for it to debut. It would then likely to be on sale shortly after, and in limited quantities. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that this is fianlly the lightweight inexpensive Porsche we have been waiting for.
(2010 Cayman S with Exclusive options show)
Photo Courtesy Porsche Cars, NA
