If you thought Porsche Caymans were for folk who couldn’t afford 911s, think again.

The Porsche Cayman S

The Cayman S looks superb, with its flared wheel arches, steeply tapered rear end and flowing profile designed around the mid-mounted engine.

It also has a real sense of balance when you drive it fast. It handles bends amazingly, and is fun to drive.

With 0–60 coming up in 5.4 seconds, topping out just above 170mph the Cayman S has real power. Like all great Porsches since 1963, it has the flat-six engine, which makes a unique sound on the road — a sort of angry drone.

James Martin writes, “This is the sports car equivalent of a radio-friendly hit, with drinks holders, comfortable seats and (unlike the 911) loads of storage, thanks to the two boots, one front and one rear. It’s for everyman. I was happy my car had the manual gearbox and not the Tiptronic thing; I don’t need to pretend I’m a Formula 1 driver. … Can I recommend it without any ifs, buts or alternatives? I thought so.”