2011 Porsche Cayman

Crave a Carrera but can’t cough up the coin? Then consider the Cayman, Porsche’s Boxster-derived mid-engine coupe for the cost-conscious car buyer. With great balance (better than the 911, some say) and clean, crisp lines, the base Cayman costs about $26,000 less than a Carrera. Yet it’s every inch a Porsche and more than holds its own among the competition. Mostly unchanged for 2011, the 265-bhp base model doesn’t disappoint. But it’s the 320-bhp 172-mph Cayman S that truly impresses and is worth the extra $10K. Although both models are rife with standard equipment such as Bluetooth, tire pressure monitoring and Auto Brake Differential, optional styling, comfort and performance packages can personalize your Cayman and make it more like a Carrera.