Toyota GR86 or Porsche Cayman - Which is better at the same price? | Everyday Driver 

As someone that owns a 991.2 GT3 Touring, a 718 Spyder manual and a 991.2 manual GTS cabriolet I can tell you that you can have a great deal of fun in a car that costs much much less. Which is evidenced by my recent purchase of a soft top manual Miata. My advice is to buy new what you can afford and sleep better without worrying about reliability and repair costs.

Years back I was faced with the decision of a new 2013 BRZ/FR-S or a used 2006 Cayman S (987.1) with ~60k mi. At the time the Cayman spoke more to me and I was elated to own my first Porsche. I agree with the reviewers in that the Cayman is unmatched in feel and refinement, and there is nothing better than the sound of that flat-six. The Cayman attracted attention everywhere I drove it, and was one of the most confidence inspiring platforms when driven at the limit. About 8k miles into my ownership experience I experienced the need for a new clutch and flywheel, which set me back $4k at my local Porsche dealer. After this I was hesitant to drive the car as much, and wondered if the BRZ/FR-S would have been a better overall ownership experience. With the improvements to the new GR86 I think it is easily the more sensible option, and a platform most buyers can drive mercilessly for many miles without much financial risk. At the end of the day however, sportscar ownership is more about feelings than sensibility. You have to choose whichever option speaks to you the most and accept whatever that option brings. While I still reminisce about everything I loved about the Cayman, I currently own and enjoy a 2001 Corvette Z06 (C5). The performance per dollar is unrivaled in this market if you are attracted to the styling and can overlook the 90's GM refinement (or lack there of).

I've owned a 987 S and I have a GR86 now, much happier in the GR compared to the Porsche. One of the key points was said "the 86 is like an excited puppy and the cayman is more serious". That seriousness actually gets kind of boring and sterile in daily life, whereas the 86 is a treat no matter what I'm doing. The cayman is a phenomenal car but the engine is the only selling point over the GR. The GR is lighter and feels lighter, amazing looks, cheaper maintenance and still under warranty, more features, better seats (big deal for me), and just as thrilling in a performance driving situation. I love both but the GR was the right move.

These were the 2 cars I was choosing from. I decided that the "peace of mind" of a new car, plus the relative ease/cheapness of serviceability of the GR86 was worth something. Plus, I was tired of being a keyboard warrior who constantly complained that manufacturers don't make new, manual sports cars. I decided to put my money where my mouth is. Edit: note that the actual characteristics of the car didn't play into this decision at all. I was already convinced that I wouldn't regret either

I have a 22 GR86, 7 months in. Not one single regret.

I was in a similar predicament recently. Ended up with a 987.2 Cayman S. It's my daily driver, and I have zero regrets. Such a capable car!

Stock Caymans on track absolutely need higher temp brake fluid like Motul RBF 600. Makes all the difference. I absolutely love my 2008 Cayman S. Have owned it 10 years now, no plans on selling it. Still brings me lot's of joy and excitement. Been very reliable too!

Cayman is a well made car. Not to mention it is reliable, and easy to DIY maintain. Each time when I am under my 987.2 when its on my quick jack to do the oil change, I was happy to see the amount of engineering went into the design and manufacturing of each component. In my 11 years of ownership since new, it still put a grin on my face each time when I am driving it and it drives like the first day I got it. In my younger days, I drove it more aggressively and really enjoy the perfect rotational inertia of the car.

I like that u kept your word about testing as many competitors to the 86

Thanks guys for doing my car justice. I’ve always appreciated your insights and wholeheartedly agree with your conclusions (especially Paul’s 😉). There are no losers here but after 5 years of 987 ownership I’m still a proud and happy owner with no regrets! Now, about that high-temp fluid…..

Nice guys! I was in this exact predicament earlier this year.. Had a refundable $500 deposit on a GR86 at my local Toyota dealer (they only sell for MSRP), but was like 3rd in line for one.. Stumbled across a 987.1 Cayman S for low $30's on Craiglist (wait before you chastise).. Turns out a highly reputable local Porsche/Audi/BMW/MB shop was selling it for a long time customer (he's retired and was travelling the world).. Had the last 8 years of service records and the clutch/flywheel, rotors, plugs, and tires were all done in the last month. It had 78k miles on it when I bought it (84k now) and has been one of the best cars I've owned thus far.. Took it to a PCA track day, no issues.. If you can find one of these gems that has good documentation (or passes a stringent PPI) just buy it.. While the GR86 is good, it can't compete with how much more power/torque the CS has, mid-engine layout, and the sound of the flat 6.. This is the first car that I haven't modded the exhaust on because the intake noise is soooooo goood..

Thank you, another great video. And Paul in the Porsche looks like a kid that got a toy that was nr. 1 on his wish list. Such enthusiasm. GR86 looks great in this colour combo.

Thank you for cross-comparing these cars! So compelling for different reasons and yet, the same reasons...fun!

An interesting comparison. Maintenance will cost much more on the Cayman, but it's near the bottom of it's depreciation curve. The 86 value retention is yet to be seen, but it is still in warranty. I envy anyone who has to wrestle with this decision.

Great comparison! I had the exact same dilemma about a year ago, and ended up with my 987.1. I don't regret my decision one bit and have had an absolute blast with it. These first gen Caymans are such good little cars, and it's great to see that there are new options like the GR86 that capture a similar level of magic.

Thank you guys for taking on the question that so many of us struggle with, especially with these two models. More expensive cars are often more fun than the affordable competitor but with increased costs there’s diminishing returns. It’s hard to know if I save up and buy the more expensive car if I will actually enjoy it enough to justify the delta over the entry level car. Keep this type of content coming!

As a former 2006 Porsche Cayman S owner, in 2014 I can assure you it's daunting. Clutch $3500, Computer $4000, metal shavings in the engine with check engine light $11000. That was in the four months I owned it. It had 61000 miles. Again... those were 2014 prices. Expect 30-40% higher now... 10 years later.

I love this comparison as I used to think about swapping my 2013 BRZ for a Cayman before I bought my S2000.

I had the great pleasure to drive both of these cars, these very cars, a couple of days before they filmed this while on their Utah Adventure. Paul and Todd know how to host a driving weekend. It’s really about what you want, but I’m with Todd. I found the GR86 to be light, agile and fun. Not quite as balanced as the Cayman S, but a lighter clutch, steering, shifter, and car overall. As Paul said, it’s playful. The 987S Cayman was FUN! Confidence inspiring, stable and grips, the car takes a back seat and lets you enjoy the drive. Back to back with the GR86 it felt heavy though.

Thanks for the awesome content as always! Your choice of vehicles is always fun and interesting. Your production values are through the roof!!! Those drone shots are amazing, capturing those beautiful winding roads.

Ten years ago I found your channel when researching whether I should buy a used 987 S. You guys pushed me over the edge and the Cayman in this video could practically be mine. Had to sell it a few years ago. Man, I miss it.

Yes! I was waiting for this piece - very interesting! Thank you gentlemen

Wow, I'm was literally thinking about these two choices and here is the video I wanted to see. Thanks guys you're great 👍

Man I literally considering these two cars. Your video is right on time!

The fact the 86 is even compared to the Porsche says a lot!! Ownership costs are real…

Many years ago I lived on the central coast in California where there are tons of back roads. I had a 94 Miata and a Cayman came up behind me. In the twisties we were matched, obviously on the straights it flew past me, but I was able to catch up through the corners. One of my favorite car moments. I now own a 2018 BRZ and I get that same kind of feeling driving it as I did with that Miata.

Yes!! I’m so glad you guys decided to do this one!

Thanks paul and todd. This was a fantastic episode. I am porsche sold.. but others might love your perspective on selection.

Great review! Someone once wise told me (on the good old reddit), get what you can afford and what you like (no matter what). Get a car for you not for others. At the end of the day you will be driving it! Both cars I was considering, I am glad I got the 86 when I did! Going on a year strong....well soon

Bought a 2006 60k miles Cayman S in 2010 for 26K $usd. Best car ever. Mid engine rwd 6MT will all the options. Only reason I got rid of it is because I got an r8 2012 later. Still miss the Cayman. Best sports car ever

loving everything about this video! Thank you guys! Very nice comparison

Yes! This is what I have been waiting for. Thank you guys!

Great hosts, Fantastic roads, Interesting story - you guys truly have winning formula! Thanks again for the really interesting video!

Bravo, fellas! I was fiercely waiting for this! Great comparo. All the same it’s an interesting take, seeing just how a 15yr old Cayman holds up against a modern offering from Toyota. It says something about both. I actually thought the GR was going to be a clear winner! So bravo Porsche in that case for creating a lasting car in the 987!

Nice to see you with your souvenirs from Germany 🇩🇪, your helmets. Enjoyed every second of your new video. And agree both cars are great. My preference: the 86

Own a '22 BRZ and drove a base 981 recently. I would say all things being equal, BRZ>Cayman, but Cayman S>BRZ. Also just a side note, I wish journalists would mentioned that the GR86/BRZ's power number is underrated from the factory. It's really closer to 250hp than 228hp. Dozen's of customer dynos will prove that.

About 10 years ago you guys did a special on (Paul's) black Cayman S. That video inspired me to save up for a 981 Cayman which was just announced. I bought that car used in 2018 and haven't looked back. Best decision I've ever made and a LOT of credit goes to you guys, who showed me that Caymans were a diamond in the rough situation because no one wants them yet they are the best car Porsche makes.

Thank you Everyday. Always enterteiment and very good info

Since I don’t have a garage or the skill set to do repairs myself on a Porsche; I ordered a 2024 BRZ Limited ❣️. I am really looking forward to getting this car 🚘❣️

Thank you for addressing the RTV and IMS crap. So blown out of proportion.

Love this show you guys are amazing keep up the great work thank you for all the great videos

I originally wanted a 987 Cayman but started watching reviews of the 981 which is a fair chunk of change more. I then realized the Boxster was introduced a year earlier and after driving a 2013 Boxster S I was hooked. The car is much stiffer, is lighter, makes more power (315 stock) and weighs 66 pounds less than its predecessor the 987. The interior is a major upgrade from the 987. With just a tune and K&N filters mine now makes Cayman GTS power - 340hp. 270 lbft is plenty for a 3000 lb car as I’ve lightened it 50 lbs with an exhaust and lithium battery and taking the gear out of the frunk. Mine had a few miles so was only 43,000, and to me worth far more. The car is built on the same assembly line as the 911 and has many of the same parts. It’s built to the same standard but costs half as much. I will NEVER sell this car. The turn in, brakes and handling are unreal. It’s more than fast enough for the street - 0-60 4.3/12.4 qtr (PDK) and still gets 30+ mpg on the highway. Yearly maintenance with a Quick Jack is an easy afternoon job. The drive axles and cam chain are lifetime components. Beg borrow or steal to get one, there really is no substitute.

I got my used 987.2 cayman S because of you guys 10 years ago. Today the car is worth the exact same amount I paid for it and I still get compliments about the car everywhere I go. Funny thing is that I’m about to get a used Cayenne e-hybrid because of another one of your videos 😂

Out of all the comparisons this is the one we didn't know we needed, 86 vs old Cayman, they are both so amazing ❤️ And I also agree that unlike a daily car that you have to keep replacing for a newer model for safety and tech, a fun car is basically timeless if kept on good condition 🌚❤️

Great comparison/video! I was making a similar decision recently myself (GR86 vs. higher end used car) and went with the used car. While I love the car I went with, I think its worth noting that there will probably be a fair amount of deferred maintenance to deal with on any used car. Especially if you intend to track it or drive it hard. While I love the car I picked its hard not to dwell on the price of all new fluids, full detail, other small issues, and tires that the car needed right away. I hate to admit it, but I probably would have been better to hold out for a used GR86 with low miles (lots of those available).

I loved this piece. Since you referenced that it would be coming out a few months ago, I was on the edge of my seat waiting. I'm currently cross-shopping these along with the ND2... I think I need all three.

I had a 2007 base model Cayman back in 2016 that I picked up for $18k with 54k miles ln it. It had most of its major maintenance done before I bought it and it was a super fun car while I had it. I do miss it sometimes.

Amazing vid - adding to other’s comments - I’m exactly in the same boat and have been struggling with this decision. New car, or a Porsche (I’m a huge Porsche fan, btw). Thank you for reading my mind!

I'd go the 86. I hate the long gearing that often plagues Porsche's. The 86 is going to be more fun at or near regular road speeds. You could own and operate one without a second thought and that's worth a lot.

The non-S Cayman 2.7L probably would have been a fairer comparison. In Australia, 987 Caymans are still pretty expensive, too.

Always great reviews guys. Lol looks like it WAS a beautiful day up at mirror lake.

Great video! In the end where you mention "proud to own" I think we all must admit the Porsche is in a league of its own. Ive owned Toyota's and they are great but pride seldom factors in. I have not owned a Porsche, but I have dreamed of it and when I do I will definitely feel proud!

Great idea for a comparison.

Quality video boys. Really great keep it up! But.. there is another mid engined entry level car which you forgot: MR2 (SW20 is my choice). Sure not comparable in terms of power/weight but still loads of fun

@EverydayDriver excellent thorough comparison video! You covered pros and cons of both vehicles and gave us real seat time experiences that give people great info on decision making when buying similar cars. I currently own and drive a 1995 Porsche 911 (993) cabriolet and have owned and driven similar Toyota, Honda and BMW cars. My decision to buy the Porsche was mostly based on the artful, curved look of the body of the Porsche. It's my fun car that will hold its value more over the years. Yes, it has a much higher cost to repair and maintain but since it's not my daily driver the cost for me is manageable while the experience and look is worth it to me. With that said, if I wanted a fun car that I could drive a bunch of miles with much lower maintenance costs and I didn't care as much about depreciation, then I'd buy the Toyota and I'm sure would love driving it. Cheers!

That transition shot at 4:30 was excellent - really shows the similarities.

Really great episode, guys! Me, personally, I'd probably go for the GR86, but that's simply based on the fact that I don't like the idea of buying used cars, especially a used sports car where I really have to worry about how the previous owner(s) treated it. Just kind of OCD like that, and I'll willingly pay the increased cost for a new car over a used one (even though it means there's a lot of cars I'll never get to experience being that they're out of my budget new).

I was 16 when the Cayman S was introduced. 17 years later and the 987.2 S is still my dream car. I am currently planning to buy a GR86 in 2024. My heart tells me to get the Cayman S but my brain tells me to get the GR86.

When I was first looking into purchasing my first sports car, Everyday Driver's series on their hot lava FRS was what convinced me to purchase my FRS. Now looking for something different, this may end up convincing me to purchase a Cayman lol

This intro felt very Top Gear. That was such a strong opener that I was immediately sucked in!

Oh your timing is impeccable. Love it.

This is maybe the 2nd or 3rd video I’ve seen from you. When you said “I’m leaning towards the Porsche” I was like “great, prob just bc it’s a Porsche” Then you hit me immediately with “…and no it’s not just because of the badge” I started cackling. Earned a sub

Great video. As usually!

When it came out, I really wanted a GT86/BRZ but my budget wouldn't reach. In the end I found a Porsche 968. TBH I think the torque of the 968 is what makes it a good choice and for a 30 year old, it feels old school but modern enough. Having said that, I'd love a Cayman (even though the 968 is way more practical space wise)

I looked half last winter for a Cayman S manual Transmission for reasonable money..ideally a 2011or 12. Didn't find one. Then I thought to myself, a BRZ in my urban environment, stored outdours with a 7 year extended warranty might be a better fit....for a lot less money. I am very plesed with the BRZ. It is fun. I am not racing anybody, just looking for an engaging car to drive. Best bang for the buck fun car I can think of. In Canada MSRP for the base model is $22,500 USD. I have my winter tires, got it rust proofed, gave it a coat of wax bought some Tuxmats...I am all set. I don't ever have to deal with a Porsche maintenance receipt or worse a Porsche dealer service dept.....How much for that thermostat?? I won't be judged by the envious stranger getting in and out of it. I do love the Cayman though. Beautiful design. I just don't want to take care of one in the environment I live in. Liberating to not have a precious material object.

The unicorn cayman never showed up but my unicorn 86 allocation did and I couldn't be happier.

I love these dudes breakdown on both cars 🚗

It'd be interesting to see how this would pan out with a base 987 Cayman. I daily drive a 987.2 PDK base Cayman and I absolutely love it.

Ooh same tires even, love that.

Thinking about having a mid-lifr crisis just so I can get a GR86. Want one that's the same color and same wheels even. Great videos, just found you yesterday and subscribed.

You guys have the most realistic, driver centric, car reviews of any motoring journalists. Bravo!

I traded my low mileage Cayman s 6 speed for a 22 BRZ . Couldn't be happier. Mainly because of the maintenance fears .. I thoroughly flog my cars and the BRZ make me smile with the traction control off and on actually .. .. A point that I feel was missed is rainy day traction control on Cayman will let you throw it out just a bit more BRZ seams to step in a little sooner. ... There is a spot in the Cayman under snap back the front end pushes were the BRZ is a joy drifting just can't stop smiling .. under 6000 miles so far and should probably put a 3rd set of rear tires on ...

this is the exact comparison I am making right now... heavily leaning cayman ngl

Get both. I have a 16 BRZ for a daily and a 981 base for weekend run. Both cars make me smile.

Change of subject ! What a beautiful backdrop to a very interesting video .👍🇦🇺❤️

Paul hit it…..the 86 feels like a puppy and the cayman feels more serious. That’s why owning both is wonderful….the tonal difference is enjoyable to experience back to back. Had a 2017 brz and a 2013 boxster s. The former was swapped for a 2022 civic si. I will get another brz and own them both!

Wow! 18:11 That was a fantastic shot of the overtake by the Mclaren Senna

I have a 987.1 S that I daily. It's a super fun car, lacks a lot of low end torque, but makes up for it when you're up in the rev range. That GR86 looks really fun as well, as a modern rendition of a purist car - it ticks off the boxes.

I had this debate in 2013 and bought a New BRZ. Came back to cayman in 2020 and now have a 718S. No complaints here.

The answer to the question, which car do you choose "excluding costs" I would say is dependent on where you live. Here in torque country "switzerland" where we have some of the most impressive and famous mountain passes in the world connecting us to germany, italy, and france via the alps. We do not have alot of straight roads, you live in the low gear high rpm speed range of around 30Kmh to 100Kmh. Tried and tested with in my circle of petrol heads, the GR86 comes out ahead of the Cayman S, infact the Cayman has troubles keeping up with a Fiesta STx MK8.5 and a Mazda MX5 ND RF. It seems that by the time the car gets to the speed and rpm to change gear, it needs to break for the next corner.

Perfect video. I’d contemplated ordering a GR86 but due to work missed the chance as they sold out in 🇬🇧 within something like 90 minutes. I have a base Cayman 2.9 gen2, fantastic car for the road, so not too upset at missing out on the Toyota. Cayman just needs CarPlay installation and I can’t think of any reason to change it until I can afford a 718 GTS 4.0 😋

Funny enough, I cross-shopped a (used) Cayman and a brand-new BRZ when the BRZ was launched. I was lucky enough that an acquaintance won whichever lottery Subaru had back then and had one of the first pre-release BRZs delivered to the east coast. We met up and traded vehicles, drove each other's cars around for a while. Later on, I invited him to attend a track day at Summit Point, one of his first if I recall correctly. There was absolutely no comparing the level of interior, luxury, ride quality, power, or performance of the two. The Cayman slayed the BRZ in every way. Now, over a decade later, the Cayman has been gone for years and I've had with a 2017 BRZ as my weekend + track car for the past several years.

I daily a V8 vantage and track a modified JDM SW20 MR2 Turbo, also used to own a GT86 that I tracked regularly. The Cayman is an incredible car.

Great comparison. When I replaced my ND Miata, I wasn’t considering the GR86 (new one wasn’t out yet anyway), but I would have considered the Toyota Supra. Thankfully, the lack of a manual (at the time) nixed that, and I found a Cayman R for the same price (just before the market went nuts). I absolutely love the Cayman R for all the reasons you noted and more (lighter weight, more power, upgraded brakes). If you were to compare a Cayman R with proper upgrades and a manual Supra, I believe the outcome would be very similar to this comparo. Both great cars, but the Cayman R is special.

The first gen Cayman is also one of the most beautiful cars Porsche has ever made. The way the roofline dives between the wheel arches is still gorgeous a decade and a half later.

Coincidentally, I was looking at obtaining one of these 2 cars or a low mileage s2000. I chose the S2k, but definitely can’t go wrong with any of them. Some of the best drivers cars ever made for the money.

Guys i can’t wait for your GR86 Vs a Manual Supra comparison video!!!!!!

GR86 will last longer easy decision

Another great comparison. I love that you guys do original/unique stuff and not the same cookie cutter videos from other creators

Great video. Amazing road. You make me miss my 2008 Caymam S.

Four months later this video shows up in the que, and I watch it again. I like the 86 well enough, it reminds me that I owned three 90's Celicas: 2+2 seating, fast-back spacious room with the back seats down; sports car attitude, with every day driver usability. Biggest difference RWD vs FWD. I appreciate the better engines and suspension in the Cayman, but I want a convertible two seater, so I have the Boxster S now. Maybe I'll refer to it as my convertible Cayman S in the future! 😉

Ten years ago I bought a 987S in the same color as the one in this video. I watched countless videos, and it was Everyday Driver's feature on it that put me over the edge to buy the thing. It was my daily driver for 6 years, amazing car.

Lovely comparison video . IMS and RTV are still serious issues .

The braking visual is amazing!!

Reminds of trying to choose between my Saab 9000 aero and Renault Clio 172. Loved them both.

Great comparison guys, very appropriate. The convertible flip side of this would be a Boxster vs. the Lotus Elise, also a great comparison…

I can transport two (2) Siberian Huskies in the back of the BRZ with the rear seats folded down. Doesn't seem like an option with the 987 Cayman. Other than the small hatch, they did a good job with the back of the 86/BRZ. ToyoBuru marketing always mentions "you can carry a set of race tires with the rear seats folded down" lol

Hey guys great video and a comparison ivr thought of and happy to watch. Would love to see the GR86 against a Mustang GT 2016 or newer with pp1 or pp2! Same price point.

Just bought a gr86 its somuch fun always puts a smile on my face. Perfect power and just so well balanced

Awesome video as always. I do have to wonder, with all of the discussion related to the higher power of the Cayman S, would a base Cayman with the 2.7L engine have been a better comparison?