[Zzyzx]

I finally pulled the trigger on a 2019 718 base after many months trying to decide what options would best fit me. This forum has been a great resource helping me with my decisions! I'm very grateful for all the input people put into this forum. My lock date is supposed to be in mid-September.

I'm still wavering on a couple of options but this is what my current spec looks like:

2019 Base Cayman
I test drove both the base and S model. I was happy to see that the base model performed exceptionally well and was within my budget. Had the S model been a $5k to $6k upgrade I might have gone in that direction.

Exterior Color: White
My first choice would have been PTS purple, but as this in now an $11k option, I don’t think so! Maybe next time.

Interior Color Leather Interior in Black/Dark Silver w/Sport Tex Seats
I have been going back and forth for a while on this one. I do like the contrast of the blue and chalk interior, but am just a bit worried about the chalk wear and dirt over time.

Interior Trim in Brushed Aluminum
This option was based on the feedback in the forum on how the sun reflects on the standard aluminum. Thank you for that feedback! I was also thinking about the carbon fiber, but wanted some contrast in the interior.

Deletion of Model Logo
It might be sacrilege, but if there was on option to delete all emblems/badges I would. I just love the clean lines and look of the 718 all by itself.

Rear Side Air Intake Grilles Painted (white) Is it just me, or does it seems like those side intake grills need to be painted? I was thinking about having them painted jet black, but then decided to go with white. I do like the look of those carbon fiber intakes, so might consider those later on.

Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) The shifting of the PDK in phenomenal.

Sport Tailpipes in Silver Porsche
I like how these make the back of the car look. Too bad Porsche doesn’t just allow you to substitute.

Extended Range Fuel Tank
For $140.00 seems like a no brainer. Plus, anything I can do to limit my stops to the gas station is alright with me

18" Cayman Wheels
Like the look of these wheels and based experiences of other forum members, I chose these for ride comfort and handling. This was a hard one since I like most of the wheel offerings.

Lane Change Assist
This is an option I have been going back and forth with. When I drive, I try to make it a point to know where all cars are at in my proximity at all times. This option does seem like it could be useful if used just once. Any additional experiences with this would be helpful.

Light Design Package
Another option area where people have mentioned that this option to be helpful addition.

GT Sport Steering Wheel
The standard steering wheel is just fine, but the GT one fits me like a glove.

Heated Multifunction Steering Wheel
Don’t really require the heated part being in Texas, but the multi-function part is nice.

Adaptive Sport Seats Plus (18-way)
I have been to the dealership a few times to test out the 18-way and 2-way sport tex. I’m still not 100% on this choice. It’s hard to gauge sitting in a car seat for a few minutes. I like the idea of the less expensive 2-way option (so I can load up on other options), but don’t want to regret my decision later on. I have read many threads on the forums on this, but still in the middle. Any input would be appreciated!

2-Zone Automatic Climate Control
I have never had ACC before and have got along fine, but would like to know if it’s worth the $770.00 premium?

Smoking Package
Now I don't have to flick my ashes out the window! Just kidding, don't smoke! It sure makes the console look clean and at a $0.0 price
tag, why not?

Bose Surround Sound System
I have never been a fan of Bose and their marketing machine, but I don’t want to be left cold with a less then par base sound system. It would have been nice to have a $1k to $2k alternative to Bose without having to go to the Burmester route. I have a nice setup at home, so this is not really that big of a deal.

PPF will be going on the car, but still have not decided what would work best with the white paint. My SA said he could have it completed with Xpel Ultimate before I come pick it up, but am still unsure if this is the PPF I should go with. I will be picking up the car in Houston, so it would be nice to drive the car back to Austin protected.

I'm very excited to be part of this whole process and look forward to when the car finally arrives!

 

[CaymanMatt]

I finally pulled the trigger on a 2019 718 base after many months trying to decide what options would best fit me. This forum has been a great resource helping me with my decisions! I'm very grateful for all the input people put into this forum. My lock date is supposed to be in mid-September.

I'm still wavering on a couple of options but this is what my current spec looks like:

2019 Base Cayman
I test drove both the base and S model. I was happy to see that the base model performed exceptionally well and was within my budget. Had the S model been a $5k to $6k upgrade I might have gone in that direction.

Exterior Color: White
My first choice would have been PTS purple, but as this in now an $11k option, I don’t think so! Maybe next time.

Interior Color Leather Interior in Black/Dark Silver w/Sport Tex Seats
I have been going back and forth for a while on this one. I do like the contrast of the blue and chalk interior, but am just a bit worried about the chalk wear and dirt over time.

Interior Trim in Brushed Aluminum
This option was based on the feedback in the forum on how the sun reflects on the standard aluminum. Thank you for that feedback! I was also thinking about the carbon fiber, but wanted some contrast in the interior.

Deletion of Model Logo
It might be sacrilege, but if there was on option to delete all emblems/badges I would. I just love the clean lines and look of the 718 all by itself.

Rear Side Air Intake Grilles Painted (white) Is it just me, or does it seems like those side intake grills need to be painted? I was thinking about having them painted jet black, but then decided to go with white. I do like the look of those carbon fiber intakes, so might consider those later on.

Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) The shifting of the PDK in phenomenal.

Sport Tailpipes in Silver Porsche
I like how these make the back of the car look. Too bad Porsche doesn’t just allow you to substitute.

Extended Range Fuel Tank
For $140.00 seems like a no brainer. Plus, anything I can do to limit my stops to the gas station is alright with me

18" Cayman Wheels
Like the look of these wheels and based experiences of other forum members, I chose these for ride comfort and handling. This was a hard one since I like most of the wheel offerings.

Lane Change Assist
This is an option I have been going back and forth with. When I drive, I try to make it a point to know where all cars are at in my proximity at all times. This option does seem like it could be useful if used just once. Any additional experiences with this would be helpful.

Light Design Package
Another option area where people have mentioned that this option to be helpful addition.

GT Sport Steering Wheel
The standard steering wheel is just fine, but the GT one fits me like a glove.

Heated Multifunction Steering Wheel
Don’t really require the heated part being in Texas, but the multi-function part is nice.

Adaptive Sport Seats Plus (18-way)
I have been to the dealership a few times to test out the 18-way and 2-way sport tex. I’m still not 100% on this choice. It’s hard to gauge sitting in a car seat for a few minutes. I like the idea of the less expensive 2-way option (so I can load up on other options), but don’t want to regret my decision later on. I have read many threads on the forums on this, but still in the middle. Any input would be appreciated!

2-Zone Automatic Climate Control
I have never had ACC before and have got along fine, but would like to know if it’s worth the $770.00 premium?

Smoking Package
Now I don't have to flick my ashes out the window! Just kidding, don't smoke! It sure makes the console look clean and at a $0.0 price
tag, why not?

Bose Surround Sound System
I have never been a fan of Bose and their marketing machine, but I don’t want to be left cold with a less then par base sound system. It would have been nice to have a $1k to $2k alternative to Bose without having to go to the Burmester route. I have a nice setup at home, so this is not really that big of a deal.

PPF will be going on the car, but still have not decided what would work best with the white paint. My SA said he could have it completed with Xpel Ultimate before I come pick it up, but am still unsure if this is the PPF I should go with. I will be picking up the car in Houston, so it would be nice to drive the car back to Austin protected.

I'm very excited to be part of this whole process and look forward to when the car finally arrives!

Here are my thoughts, having just gone through this and ultimately reviewing my spec when car was in hand:

Interior Trim in brushed aluminum: In retrospect, I think I would have considered the carbon fiber or alternatively the brushed aluminum. The standard aluminum isn't very exciting and almost looks cheap. I've gotten used to it but my next Porsche will have something else. Regarding darkness of interior, whether you have aluminum or carbon fiber trim it's going to be dark. Just accept it. It may be better to be consistently dark. I like the way the CF trim looks in the dark interior as well as in the lighter Sport-Tex. And on that subject, I think the best way to lighten up the interior is with the Graphite Blue/Chalk Sport-Tex. With this color the CF trim looks really good. I understand your concerns on keeping it clean though as I had those same questions. I kept the Alcantara in our car though & am really happy with it. On a base or S, I would have considered the Sport-Tex.

Painted side grilles: I really, really like the painted side grilles on our Graphite Blue GTS. Looking at the configurator, it looks really good in white also!

Extended range tank: No brainer. Do it.

Lane change assist: I kind of wish I had it. It's really not a hard car to see out of though in most circumstances but I do think this one is beneficial.

Light design package: I have it and must say I wish they were twice or more as bright. I can't imagine what it's like without it.

Multi-function wheel: Can't imagine not having it.

18 way seats: I think I'm glad I have them as the adjustability is great. I have noticed that the upper shoulder bolsters are a little intrusive. I'm not sure if the standard seats would have been better.

Climate control: Works well. I previously thought this was unnecessary but my previous car & now this car have changed my tune. Would not go without it again.

Smoking package: I'm actually on the fence. Sure you get another power outlet but I can't see it as really being useful. There is one in the console (unless you get CarPlay, which we don't have) and the actual ashtray region is so small as to be useless except for maybe a few coinage. I like the cover but I actually think that the open cubby would probably have more value. Other people may have more insights on this one.

Bose stereo: Don't know what the standard system was like but this one isn't great. There is no mid range adjustability, only bass & treble. However, I will say that it hasn't bothered me. The real music plays behind your ears.

I hope this helps.

 

[Zzyzx]

Thanks for the additional insight CaymanMatt! Very helpful!


If Alcantara was offered i the base model, that would have been my first choice. Actually, I think I would like the sport tex option currently being offered in the 911 T (Black/GT Silver) as my first option.



If I was to go with the blue/chalk interior, I would weigh heavily towards the carbon fiber as well. I was even looking at just covering the aluminum trim pieces in leather, but I'm liking the contrast of the brushed aluminum and carbon fiber.


So many choices!

 

[porkey]

Thanks for the additional insight CaymanMatt! Very helpful!


If Alcantara was offered i the base model, that would have been my first choice. Actually, I think I would like the sport tex option currently being offered in the 911 T (Black/GT Silver) as my first option.



If I was to go with the blue/chalk interior, I would weigh heavily towards the carbon fiber as well. I was even looking at just covering the aluminum trim pieces in leather, but I'm liking the contrast of the brushed aluminum and carbon fiber.


So many choices!

...Hi and congrats! I can't give you the hands on experience that CaymanMat can, as I'm still waiting patiently for my GT4 configurator, but I can give you my 2 cents worth on some of my thoughts. I think you should go with the blue/chalk interior with carbon fiber trim. I think it's a stunning combination, especially with your white exterior. (I'd do it if I could but I think it would clash a bit with my preferred color...lava orange!) Also, keeping it clean won't be a big deal at all and you'll also get that contrast you desired. My limited edition Volkswagen, or my fun car as I describe it, has an ALL white V Tex interior and believe it or not, is not difficult to keep clean! So don't sweat that too much. Good choice with the 18's...once again, would do it if I could. I'm still a fan of the neater appearance of the cockpit with the smokers package (I suspect that's the reason most of us choose that option or in my case, will choose that option). Regarding Bose, I've had them in quite a few vehicles over the years and have never been dissatisfied, so they serve me fine although many seem to imply their systems aren't the best. It's unlikely I'll splurge on the Burmmeister but have been told it's great but for a price, as you're aware. Yes on the light design package. And the side air intakes look great either way. It you prefer more contrast, especially with your white exterior, leave them or better yet replace then with carbon fiber, as mentioned (will match interior fiber) but the painted appearance is definitely sharp looking! It's really personal preference. Just a few thoughts...enjoy!

 

[Zzyzx]

I think you should go with the blue/chalk interior with carbon fiber trim. I think it's a stunning combination, especially with your white exterior.

My main hesitation has been the possible upkeep on the chalk part. In the end, I just might go with it!

 

[porkey]

I think you should go with the blue/chalk interior with carbon fiber trim. I think it's a stunning combination, especially with your white exterior.

My main hesitation has been the possible upkeep on the chalk part. In the end, I just might go with it!

...as I said, don't sweat it. The Sport Tex material, like my V Tex, is extremely durable and very easy to clean/maintain. I truly believe it's superior to leather...

 

[trusted]

I just ordered my 2nd 718 Cayman. I skipped LCA (lane change assist) this time. I falsely thought it's a must because I had a 718 Boxster for a while. In the Boxster it's a must. The blind spots are huge. The Cayman has great visibility all around. I find LCA in my Cayman to be more annoying then helpful to be honest.

 

[porkey]

I just ordered my 2nd 718 Cayman. I skipped LCA (lane change assist) this time. I falsely thought it's a must because I had a 718 Boxster for a while. In the Boxster it's a must. The blind spots are huge. The Cayman has great visibility all around. I find LCA in my Cayman to be more annoying then helpful to be honest.

...I never had a vehicle with LCA but I will likely not include it if available (agree with you about being annoying). Besides, I've mastered side mirror use...LOL...Congratulations on 718 #2...love the Cayman! Will they be "twins" or are you going with a different color this time? ?

 

[Graustark]

Model delete: I'd do it. Makes it cleaner. If I got a GTS, I probably wouldn't. But I'd kill the GTS decals on the side.

2-Zone Auto climate: Do it for the automatic, and better button layout, not necessarily for 2 zones, which is kind of overkill.

18" Cayman wheels: my favorite look and less rough ride. If I get a Boxster base, I will pick these.

Extended range tank: "cheap" enough, do it to eliminate irritation.

Lane change assist: esp helpful if you had a Boxster, which has worse visibility. You can turn this off if you find you don't like it, and it is subtle enough in action, AFAIK.

Bose: I don't care for Bose products. (Sennheiser headphones are way better I think.) But I feel this is more of a branding thing and will still give a better sound system than base. Burmester is overkill unless you have money to burn.

Interior trim: how about doing leather trim? Probably the least reflective compared to standard, brushed, or carbon.

Light design: I want nice lighting in a nice car. Sucker for ambient light touches.

GT steering wheel & multifunction wheel: love the multifunction wheel in a Macan S I drove. Slightly smaller wheel is maybe not worth it, but it has more reflective steel parts. And stubbier driving wheel is just sporty!

 

[Zzyzx]

Interior trim: how about doing leather trim? Probably the least reflective compared to standard, brushed, or carbon.

I had thought about it for a cleaner more minimal look, but am leaning towards the brushed aluminum or CF for the contrast.

 

[ZuffenHouseRules]

Speaking of leather trim, here's how it looks with both the dash and center console options. This was a car I 'designed' (configured) but never collected, with Natural Leather Espresso/Cognac interior.

While not a fan of Alacantara-everything, I think it works here on GT wheel and shifter, providing some texture and color contrast to all that leather.

 

[porkey]

Speaking of leather trim, here's how it looks with both the dash and center console options. This was a car I 'designed' (configured) but never collected, with Natural Leather Espresso/Cognac interior.

While not a fan of Alacantara-everything, I think it works here on GT wheel and shifter, providing some texture and color contrast to all that leather.

...actually looks quite nice BUT, subjectively, perhaps a bit too "nice" for the Cayman/Boxster series, meaning not sporty enough IMO...looks like a luxurious "sedan" interior. Each to their own...still nice...?

 

[Baka1969]

LCA: I have blind spot monitoring in my RAV4 and wouldn't have another car without it. I'd rather have it and not use it than need it and not have it. I will absolutely order LCA.

I really wish this technology was available for motorcycles. This would be a game changer.

I also have adaptive cruise control. I like it, yet will not order it on the Cayman I want.

Interior trim: oh man do I love that brushed aluminum look. Since I will not likely order with full leather I will ask the dealer if I can separately order the aluminum trim for the doors also.

Bose: Is total crapé. I have, however, read somewhere (I forget the source) that ordering the Burmester speakers separately is only a couple of hundred dollars. That will likely be the route I take. Even if I have to buy the entire kit and a few speakers go unused. The speakers should improve sound. I agree that this is mostly about branding. I doubt Bose or Burmester electronics are really used. Heck, with the exception of external amplifiers, I bet most of the differences are software tweaks. Even their own marketing gives that away. Class D amplification isn't much to brag about. Especially for the large premium they're asking for the Burmester. So, I will order the Bose and upgrade the speakers.

Sportex/18-way: Almost $6k for that combo would certainly blow my budget. I would definitely want that combo. It looks so comfy! Also, since I will get Guards Red, I'm not sure the colors would work. It will be the $650 black/tan two-tone for me.

Smoking Package: Yep. Good choice.

18" Wheels: Darn tootin'. Between potholes and comfort I see ordering the wheel combo as a no-brainer for me.

Extended Range Tank: Duh! lol

Multifunction Steering Wheel: I don't care that it'll be heated. The function is what I want. As for the smaller wheel option? Meh! It looks too busy.

Painted Side Intakes: I really like this. Even the lower rear too.

Light Design: Sounds like a good idea.

PDK: For urban stop-and-go daily traffic. Plus it's faster.

Not Mentioned: I will likely go with the Sport Chrono Package. If I didn't know what launch control was, I'd never want it. The kid in me can't say no.

Base Cayman: I think this is the toughest decision. Especially for those that will order more on a budget. Who doesn't WANT more power? That said, in the end, I'd rather have more to spend on a few of the things I want in the car than have a slightly more powerful stripper (without the pole).


Mazel tov on your choices. Enjoy it when the Cayman gets here.

 

[aeronca65tl]

I also have a white Cayman base with PDK.

I literally didn't get any options on the car other than the trans. Nothing. And I'm delighted with the car.

There are a few things I'd change on my car but they have nothing to do with options.

- I wish the brake pedal was wider for left-foot braking. It's weird that they didn't do this.
- It's criminal not to have a spare tire (and I don't care if "everyone else is doing it").
- The instruments are a weak point. The left side speedometer is almost pointless and the oil press/water temp "ribbon" gauges remind me of a 59 Buick.

But these aside, it's still a great car.

 

[ZuffenHouseRules]

I literally didn't get any options on the car other than the trans. Nothing. And I'm delighted with the car.

My car came with literally $250 in options -- just metallic paint. In my case it meant getting an S off the lot for the same cost as my lightly-optioned base configuration. And in retrospect, I'm delighted. And I'm learning the truth of the adage "never too much power" even though I still find the S scary fast at times.

But if I could change anything, I'd pay for the heated (for top-down winter driving), Sport Plus seats and GT wheel that were in my configuration. On the other hand actually prefer that I've got 19 rather than 20" wheels -- not for improved ride as many others cite but just a little less unsprung weight, less expensive tires and I've come to really like the Boxster S wheel's sculpted spoke design And with black exterior, the Safety Bars in Exterior Color option would have been redundant. Oh, let me add that for my performing musician's ears, the base audio system is quite good (but I'm driving/listening with top-down 99% of the time).

I do still love the look of Natural Leather Espresso/Cognac with leather dash and console trim, but all told that was about half the difference between base and S, so hard to justify if working with any sense of fiscal constraint. I had leather on my previous cars, and I love the feel and smell of real leather, but honestly for me the synthetic materials (at least in black) have progressed to the point where it's not quite a regret (besides S adds more interior leather bits to the wheel and shifter everyone gets), just something I might splurge on next time.

 

[Zzyzx]

Not Mentioned: I will likely go with the Sport Chrono Package. If I didn't know what launch control was, I'd never want it. The kid in me can't say no.

I had this on my original spec, but after realizing it just wouldn't be utilized enough to justify the price, I reluctantly removed it.

 

[RGM718]

I ordered my 5th Cayman in May. My original was an 08 CS Guards Red over Black, 6MT, sport steering wheel, colored center caps and that was about it. Next came the Cayman R that was Carrera White over black, 6MT, PSE, Chrono Sport, Bose, dual zone climate, colored center caps, black 19" OEM wheels.....That was followed by the 2014 Cayman Base, Black over Luxor, PDK, 14 Way Seats, Premium Package, Infotainment, 19" Cayman S wheels, Colored Center Caps. My current 2016 Cayman Base is Mahogany Metallic over Luxor, PDK, Sport Steering Wheel, 14 Way Seats, Premium, 19" Boxster S wheels, Colored CenterCaps, Polished Sport Tips, Infotainment, X73 suspension. My 2019 718 is configured as Night Blue Metallic over Agate, PDK, 19" Cayman S wheels, Colored Center Caps, 14 Way, Premium, Sport Steering Wheel, LCA, Chrono Sport, PASM, Polised Sport Tips, Metal trimmed pedals, Model Delete, Polished Trip around windows. It is essentially my 2016 with a few additions.

 

[porkey]

I ordered my 5th Cayman in May. My original was an 08 CS Guards Red over Black, 6MT, sport steering wheel, colored center caps and that was about it. Next came the Cayman R that was Carrera White over black, 6MT, PSE, Chrono Sport, Bose, dual zone climate, colored center caps, black 19" OEM wheels.....That was followed by the 2014 Cayman Base, Black over Luxor, PDK, 14 Way Seats, Premium Package, Infotainment, 19" Cayman S wheels, Colored Center Caps. My current 2016 Cayman Base is Mahogany Metallic over Luxor, PDK, Sport Steering Wheel, 14 Way Seats, Premium, 19" Boxster S wheels, Colored CenterCaps, Polished Sport Tips, Infotainment, X73 suspension. My 2019 718 is configured as Night Blue Metallic over Agate, PDK, 19" Cayman S wheels, Colored Center Caps, 14 Way, Premium, Sport Steering Wheel, LCA, Chrono Sport, PASM, Polised Sport Tips, Metal trimmed pedals, Model Delete, Polished Trip around windows. It is essentially my 2016 with a few additions.

...congratulations on #5! You are indeed, the Cayman guru! Are you planning on keeping this one long term or try another flavor several years down the road??

 

[Swdea]

I have the Graphite Blue/Sport-tex 18 way seats with Carbon Fiber and I love it. I had the whole interior treated with a G-technic protectant as a precautionary measure with the chalk. So far, so good.

 

[Zzyzx]

I have the Graphite Blue/Sport-tex 18 way seats with Carbon Fiber and I love it. I had the whole interior treated with a G-technic protectant as a precautionary measure with the chalk. So far, so good.

Looks incredible Swdea! Thanks for the tip G-technic protectant.



Love those white instrument dials as well!