Both the 2.9-litre Cayman and 3.4-litre Cayman S models have six-cylinder engines that thrive on revs. Each hurtles rapidly forward at higher revs, but the extra 54bhp in the S gives useful extra thrust. Both models are available with a smooth, quick-changing seven-speed PDK semi-auto gearbox as an option. Offering the best of both worlds, the PDK 'box actually increases performance while reducing C02 emissions and fuel consumption.

The Cayman is based on the mid-engined Boxster roadster and its fixed roof mean extra rigidity and an even sharper drive. Phenomenal grip and agility means twisty roads can be covered with breathtaking speed and accuracy, while the steering gives a near-perfect blend of sensitivity and feel. We'd recommend the PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) option, which trades the standard firm suspension for an adjustable system that gives a more supple ride, but taut body control.

You don’t expect sports cars to be quiet, but nor do you want to be sitting in the middle of a din. With the Cayman you’re not. The engine's guttural low-rev snarl and higher-speed metallic thrash never disappear, but you probably wouldn’t want them to, and wind noise is rarely apparent. The optional 19-inch wheels are too noisy on coarse surfaces, though.

Porsche is building only 10,000 Caymans a year (compared with 27,000 911s), so if you order one, expect to wait for your car. On the positive side, though, you'll enjoy strong secondhand values. The Cayman's running cost aren’t cheap, but they are sensible for a prestige sports car.

One of the reasons Porsches are so popular as everyday performance cars is that they are untemperamental and undemanding – follow the service schedule and they’ll take what’s thrown at them. Some of the plastics and switches in the Cayman aren’t the last word in style, but they’ll last.

A brilliant chassis, powerful brakes and Porsche’s PSM stability control system give you every chance of keeping out of trouble; six airbags protect if the worst comes to the worst. Security is naturally better than in the Boxster roadster, but any luggage in the rear boot is on view to passers-by.

Unless you’re using the full rear luggage capacity, the forwards, backwards and sideways views out of the Cayman are exceptionally good – even the front pillars don’t obstruct your sight through bends. Space and the adjustability of the driving position are great, but the crowded minor switchgear isn't easy to use.

The Cayman is a strict two-seater, but there’s plenty of room inside. Not a millimetre of space has been wasted: there’s a 150-litre front boot, plus up to 260 litres in the split-level deck atop the mid-mounted engine and gearbox. Oddments space in the cabin is pretty good, too.

The Cayman misses out on some of the pricier S model's exterior features, with smaller alloys and a single exhaust tailpipe, but it's as just as well equipped inside. Part-leather trim, climate control and part-electric seat adjustment are standard. You can add any number of options to both models, including ceramic brakes, upgraded cabin trim and satellite-navigation.