Porsche and Toyota are rarely mentioned in the same sentence, but it’s going to be more common in the future as the 2020 GR Supra was created with the express purpose of battling the 718 Cayman.
While some people might laugh this off, the Supra is an interesting competitor for a number of reasons including its use of a BMW-sourced turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. The Cayman has also gone the turbocharged route, but it relies on mid-mounted 2.0- and 2.5-liter four-cylinders.
In terms of performance, the entry-level Cayman has 296 hp (220 kW / 300 PS) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 4.5 seconds when equipped with the optional PDK transmission and Sport Chrono Package. Furthermore, the car can hit a top speed of 170 mph (273 km/h).
The Cayman S, on the other hand, packs 345 hp (257 kW / 350 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra power, the dash from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) is cut to as little as 4.0 seconds. Likewise, the top speed climbs to 177 mph (285 km/h).
The Supra slots roughly between the two models as it has 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS) and 365 lb-ft (494 Nm) of torque. This helps the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and onto an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
While both models share similar performance specifications, there are some significant differences. The Cayman lineup comes standard with a manual transmission, while one isn’t even offered on the Supra – at least not yet. The Cayman also offers a more powerful GTS variant with 360 hp (269 kW / 365 PS) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) of torque.
Styling
There has been a lot of love and hate reactions to the exterior styling of the Supra, but we think the model looks like a modern evolution of the A80. That being said, we’re not entirely sold on the car’s controversial front fascia and heavy use of blocked off intakes. However, the rest of the model looks pretty good and we dig the double bubble roof and stylish rear end.
The Cayman, on the other hand, is beautiful and incorporates familiar Porsche styling DNA. It might be too familiar for some, but the car is aging gracefully and benefited from a significant update three years ago.
Also Read: Driven: 2020 Toyota GR Supra Is A Track Weapon And An Everyday Sports Car
Interior design is a different story as the Supra has a bit more character thanks to its diverse shapes and standard carbon fiber trim. The Supra’s infotainment system is also mounted on the top of the dashboard where it’s easier to take a quick look at. Throw in a digital instrument cluster and an impressive amount of standard equipment, and you’ll find the Supra’s cabin is a good place to spend some quality time.
The Cayman has its own advantages including a more stylish steering wheel, a conventional shifter and impressive material quality. Customers can also order a dizzying array of options which means buyers can get exactly what they want. The levels of customization are so insane, you can get an Espresso/Cognac natural leather interior with Racing Yellow instrument cluster dials, Miami Blue seat belts and Mahogany wood trim. Of course, that will cost you – nearly $7,000 in this case.
Pricing
One place where the Supra has the Cayman beat is pricing. The model starts at $49,990 and can be equipped with heated leather seats, a wireless smartphone charger, a premium audio system and an 8.8-inch infotainment system with GPS navigation for $53,990.
The base Cayman starts at $56,900 while the S begins at $69,300. In typical Porsche fashion, the models are sparsely equipped and it’s easy to spend many thousands of dollars adding items such as leather upholstery, power seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and Apple CarPlay.
While the Supra is more affordable, it doesn’t have the same prestige factor as the Cayman. Tell someone you drive a Porsche and they’ll probably be impressed. Tell someone you drive a Toyota and they’ll probably think you own a Camry.
We’re joking a bit, but there’s sure to be some badge snobbery involved in the buying process. How much remains to be seen, but there’s 21 years to pent up Supra demand in the United States.
Another obvious factor is the driving experience. We liked the Supra’s performance on and off the track, but it’s too early to say if its good enough to beat the Cayman. However, there should be plenty of reviews comparing the models in the future.
With all that being said, let us know if you’re team Cayman or team Supra in the comments below.
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