[JonD]

So I test drove my first Porsche today and a few thoughts.

I know some complain about the sound, but I actually quite liked it, up to date tech in the cabin, sound wasn’t as bad as I expected. The noise and pace didn’t seem as nice/quick as my current M2 (BMW’s straight 6 is a peach), but I reckon on the open road the weight difference will come into play, ride quality was much nicer in the cayman, the cabin is also much nicer with its full leather, alcantara and glossy carbon.

PDK felt much nicer around town, than the DCT but didn’t feel as quick changing gear, would need more of a spirited drive to fully compare the two.

The other thing I have to consider (and convince the other half) is the loss of a back seat, admittedly it’s a big loss in flexibility.

 

[don]

Hi Jon nice to hear you're considering a 718 and I think your initial impressions are quite accurate.

Which model did you drive? A base, S or GTS. The drive experience of these three variants can be quite different depending on your driving style, particularly due to the pleura of options that they may or may not have unless you opt for a GTS.

The M2 is certainly a great package and I have a couple of buddies who drive modified M2s and they go very well. Though I would say my GTS is faster through the tighter mountain roads and I usually end up passing them, but that's not that unexpected given the performance and technological benefits in the GTS, let alone the much higher price tag. As you mention the 718 also has a considerable weight advantage over the M2 and of course being mid engined the 718 is relatively easier to drive near the limit. The PDK is great and will adapt in sport or sport + mode to a more spirited driving style.

I would say the 718 is a great couples car. You can cruise along quietly and comfortably and easily fit a medium suit case in the frunk and some other bits and pieces or two small suite cases plus some other bags in the trunk. My wife and I find it more than adequate for a getaway and we have a second car for more practicality. The 718 is also really easy to park so good for an evening out and it is nice to leave our larger second car at home when we can.

 

[jimmuller]

I would say the 718 is a great couples car. You can cruise along quietly and comfortably and easily fit a medium suit case in the frunk and some other bits and pieces or two small suite cases plus some other bags in the trunk. My wife and I find it more than adequate for a getaway and we have a second car for more practicality.

A getaway, he says. Absolutely. And FWIW, my wife finds our 718C the most comfortable car she's ever ridden.

A getaway last autumn. We didn't even set up the dining fly w/ rain cover we also took.

 

[JonD]

Thanks for the replies

It was indeed the GTS I tested and that is what I’d be looking for.

There’s three of us in the family, but we do have another car which we’d use for family duties, but generally when I’m in my car (M2) there’s only me or maybe +1 however it’s that occasion when the rear seat is need is which is my only reservation

 

[DriveInHouston]

Did you drive it in the Sport mode? Or Sport + if it was available?

 

[JonD]

Did you drive it in the Sport mode? Or Sport + if it was available?

Yes, I managed to get it into sports mode.

 

[don]

Thanks for the replies

It was indeed the GTS I tested and that is what I’d be looking for.

There’s three of us in the family, but we do have another car which we’d use for family duties, but generally when I’m in my car (M2) there’s only me or maybe +1 however it’s that occasion when the rear seat is need is which is my only reservation

Ok well as you probably know the GTS will have all the performance options you need.

The main performance option on the GTS is whether or not you have the PASM-Sport, which lowers the car another 10mm with slightly shorter springs and firmer anti-roll bars. I don't think it is absolutely necessary but well worth considering if you are after maximum performance out of the box.

I know the feeling of occasionally needing the 2 + 1 but there is usually some way around that problem on those rare occasions. Perhaps borrowing another family car, catching a ride with friends or an Uber.

 

[GregW]

A getaway, he says. Absolutely. And FWIW, my wife finds our 718C the most comfortable car she's ever ridden.

A getaway last autumn. We didn't even set up the dining fly w/ rain cover we also took.

Where on earth did you carry the picnic table? ?

 

[jimmuller]

Where on earth did you carry the picnic table? ?

Oh, it fit in the frunk. Ok, if you don't believe that, would you believe it lashes to the hatch?

 

[982CS]

PDK up and down shifts are noticeably quicker in Sport + than Sport mode. But, as discussed in a recent ‘AI’ thread, PDK also adjust to your driving style.