NEW FOR 2006

Some would say the Cayman S is just a Boxster with a fixed roof, but that would be a faux-pas worse than wearing white pants after Labour Day. Yes, it shares a platform and mid-engine setup with the roadster, but the formula diverges considerably from there.

From the windscreen forward, it's Boxster sheetmetal, save for the new front clip. Aft of the A-pillar it's a gorgeous mix of that 911 teardrop shape and the Boxster's haunched fenders. Porsche says the roof doubles the car's rigidity, while the new nose and electronically-deploying rear spoiler combine to provide 14 kg more downforce than in a Boxster S.

Behind the seats is a new 3.4-litre flat six. Extensively modified from the roadster, it uses the 911's cylinder bore and heads -- the first time Porsche's Variocam Plus active valve system has been available outside the Carrera clan. Both horsepower and torque are up and neatly aligned between the Boxster S and 911, as does the 0-100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds. Porsche Stability Management is standard. Optional are the electronic Porsche Active Suspension Management system and the 911's ceramic brakes.

The combination of power, increased rigidity, other-world braking and handling (courtesy of a near-perfect 45:55 weight balance), are what make the Cayman S such an enticing sports car. Dare we say, one that may be equal -- or better -- than some current 911 models.

Steps on the 911's toes for fewer dollars

Steps on the 911's toes for fewer dollars