This Porsche Cayman S Design Edition 1 is a limited-production variant of the 987 generation model, presented in very good order. Powered by a 291bhp, 3.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-six, power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The odometer reads 66,052 miles.
First registered on 1 December 2007, this Design Edition 1 (DE1) is an original UK-market car with four previous registered keepers. The current vendor has owned and maintained this car for the last five years, and it is number 36 of just 777 manufactured.
Celebrating the 35th anniversary of Porsche Design, the DE1 was only available in black with a matching black interior. Stylistic changes included the use of black Alcantara on the steering wheel, gear lever, handbrake grip and the headliner, and Porsche Design script was also printed on the instrument dials and the stainless steel sill panels. There were also all-red taillights, and black-on-black vinyl graphics on the body.
The Cayman S DE1 rode on 19-inch wheels taken from the 997-generation 911 Turbo with 5mm wheel spacers. It also featured Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, with the spring height also lowered 10mm compared to a standard Cayman S.
Well-presented in metallic Basalt Black, this DE1 wears its age well, with only incidental stone chipping to be seen on the front end. There are a handful of chips on the outer edge of both doors from road use, and the paint finish is believed to be entirely original to the car. The model-specific Porsche Design vinyl graphics are complete, though with minor polish residue to be seen.
The front and rear lights, plastics and Porsche badging are in excellent order, signifying the level of care taken to preserve this sports car to date. This 987’s diamond-cut wheels, borrowed from the 997 Turbo, have some small kerbing grazes around the rims on the front wheels.
Inside, the DE1’s dark theme continues, with the Alcantara steering wheel and gear knob showing some piling from age and use as you would expect. The black leather seats show minor creasing on their bolsters, but are in generally excellent order with no rips or tears, while the gloss black transmission tunnel trim still looks smart.
This example benefits from an upgraded infotainment system, and the vendor notes that there are no faults currently listed with the vehicle. The switchgear is in good, complete condition, with no cracks or damage. The front and rear boots make the Cayman a surprisingly practical companion for longer journeys or road trips, and this car retains the original luggage netting on the rear shelf.
This rare, limited-edition Porsche was last serviced in August 2020 at 66,021 miles, by marque specialist Parr Porsche. This entailed replacement of the engine oil and filter, as well as the PASM unit, and new wheel nuts alongside a brake fluid change. Prior to this, the Cayman received new exhaust clamps and a wheel bearing in October 2019, and new spark plugs and coil packs during a service in August 2018.
The most recent MOT test was on 3 March 2020 at 66,006 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. Riding on matching Pirelli P Zero tyres, these are in excellent condition with ample tread remaining. The vendor adds that all four were fitted in late 2019, with only a few hundred miles covered since then.
Offering a number of desirable upgrades over the standard model, this Porsche 987 Cayman S Design Edition 1 is an entertaining and engaging sports car with the involving six-speed manual transmission, made all the more impressive thanks to its sound mechanical and cosmetic condition. While it could be a smart addition to any collection of modern classics, it is best enjoyed on the open road, whether put into service as a fun daily driver, or pointed towards the continent for an epic road trip.
The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.
All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.
Please note: the cherished plate shown on the car is not included in the sale. It has been switched back to an age-related registration plate, HF57 CFP.