This 2012 Porsche Cayman R was first delivered to Newport Beach Cars in California. It has remained registered in the state from new, and 19k...
Porsche Cayman R (987) for Sale – Lightweight Performance Listings
The Porsche Cayman R (987) is one of the most focused and desirable driver’s cars Porsche has ever produced—and arguably the ultimate expression of the 987-generation Cayman. Built as a lightweight, enthusiast-first special, the Cayman R stripped away excess weight, sharpened the chassis, and dialed up the intensity, creating a car that feels closer to Porsche’s GT models than any standard Cayman of its era.
With naturally aspirated flat-six power, reduced mass, a lower ride height, and a rigid coupe body, the Cayman R delivers exceptional steering feel, balance, and responsiveness. Today, it’s widely regarded as a modern Porsche classic—a car that rewards skilled driving and continues to gain recognition for just how special it is.
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987 Gen Porsche Cayman R Market, Buyer FAQs & Handy Guides
Tips to Follow When Buying a 987 Gen Porsche Cayman R
What is the Porsche Cayman R?
The Cayman R is a limited-production, lightweight performance version of the 987 Cayman S. Porsche reduced weight, stiffened the chassis, and sharpened the suspension to create a more focused, track-capable coupe that still works beautifully on the road.
How is the Cayman R different from a standard Cayman S?
Key differences include reduced weight, a lower and stiffer suspension setup, unique lightweight components, and more aggressive tuning. The Cayman R feels more immediate, more connected, and far more engaging—especially when driven hard.
Why is the Cayman R considered so special?
The Cayman R represents Porsche’s purist philosophy: less weight, more feel, and minimal compromise. It’s one of the clearest examples of Porsche building a car for enthusiasts rather than the broader market, and many consider it the spiritual predecessor to later GT-style Caymans.
Where does the Cayman R sit in the sports-car market?
It competes with lightweight, driver-focused coupes like the Lotus Exige and other track-oriented sports cars. What sets the Cayman R apart is Porsche’s build quality, mid-engine balance, and everyday usability—rare in such a focused package.
Is the Cayman R practical to own?
More so than you might expect. While it’s firmer and louder than a standard Cayman, it still offers front and rear cargo space, good visibility, and reasonable comfort. Many owners use Cayman Rs for weekend driving and track days rather than daily commuting.
What are current market trends for the Cayman R?
Values have strengthened significantly over time. As buyers increasingly seek naturally aspirated, hydraulic-steering Porsches, the Cayman R has emerged as one of the most desirable modern-era Caymans, especially in original condition.
What should I look for when buying a Cayman R?
Originality is critical. Look for unmodified cars with full service history, correct lightweight components, and minimal track abuse. Suspension, brakes, clutch condition, and bodywork should be carefully inspected.
Why choose a Cayman R over a newer Cayman?
If you value steering feel, engine sound, and analog driving engagement, the Cayman R offers something newer cars simply don’t. It’s less refined, but far more visceral—and that’s exactly the appeal.
Is the Cayman R a good long-term buy?
While it should be bought to drive and enjoy, the Cayman R is widely viewed as a future-proof modern classic. Limited production, strong enthusiast demand, and its place in Porsche’s performance lineage all support long-term desirability.











