3 PORSCHE 718 CAYMAN

You don't have to read the specification list to notice the difference over the standard 2,0 model when putting your foot down in the Cayman S with its 2,5 equipped with variable turbine geometry turbocharger. Efficiency isn't just about outright speed, though: the combination of turbocharging and downsized engines helps the 718 Cayman achieve 6,9 litres/ 100 km; the S returns 7,3 l/100 km.

The sparkling straight-line performance is just the appetiser, though, for this car's superbly poised performance when the road gets twisty. And it doesn't save its best behaviour for smooth blacktop only: serious dips and bumps, even mid-corner, fail to throw the 718 off its stride. Even more impressive is the communication through the seat of the pants from the chassis and through the steering wheel. Make minute adjustments of steering or throttle or both, and the car responds almost intuitively. For those who want an even sharper-edged experience, there's the optional PASM chassis that drops the ride height by 10 millimetres – and, for the first time, optional PASM sport suspension that rides 10 mm lower still.

As much as I like the Boxster, I have to admit I'm in two minds about a soft-top's practicality, even a powered one. It doesn't help that the coupé version, the Cayman, is cheaper. Maybe one of each?

Price: from R854 00.