This sort of reminds me of when Porsche introduced the 968. It was an overpriced version of the 944 with a somewhat more powerful four banger engine than the 944 turbo (but about equal to the 944 Turbo S of which only 1800 were ever made). Porsche sold few of the 968 (about 5500 in total) and the series was over in four years. The relative differences in price and power between the 911 at the time and the 968 are somewhat similar to the current 997 and the Cayman and I note that the Cayman is a two seater just like the 968. See the parallels?
To me, the Cayman is an overpriced version of the Boxster S, albeit perhaps a better attempt than the 968. But I wonder whether we don't have the makings of another 968 here with the Cayman. I guess we'll know in a year or two.
As a side note for all you historians out there, remember that in 1995 Porsche came up with a 968 Turbo S and only 15 were ever made. If my memory serves me the 305hp 369ft-lbs 968 Turbo S was faster than the naturally aspirated 993 (and the 928, except perhaps the GTS). Since the 968 Turbo S would have been cheaper than both the 993 (and the 928GTS), this car was not well received by 911 owners and it was never officially put into production. Can you imagine how many people on this board would be screaming if Porsche introduces a Cayman Turbo S? I almost shudder at the thought.
