BRAKES, SUSPENSION AND TRANSMISSION
The GTS was offered with a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed PDK semi-automatic dual clutch transmission (as per the example on these pages). It's of paramount importance the PDK system is treated to fresh lubricant at Porsche's recommended service intervals (every six years). Check the book pack and service history of the Pdk-equipped car you're looking at to ensure this maintenance has been observed. PDK was a £1,900 option, so expect to pay a premium for cars loaded with the system. Clutches should last at least 60k miles before they need to be replaced, costing upwards of £1,000.
There isn't anything untoward to report as far as 981 braking equipment is concerned, other than to point out Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) were a £4,977 option for the GTS. While you might think this is a kit worth holding out for, be aware of the cost of replacing this system's consumables — even aftermarket replacement discs will set you back thousands. PCCB might seem attractive, but if you're looking at a GTS with these awesome anchors in place, carry out a visual inspection of the discs and pads to determine how much life is left in them — you don't want to be saddled with big spend early into your GTS ownership experience. If you suspect replacements are on the cards, factor the cost into the amount you're prepared to pay for the car.
The GTS is loaded with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) dampers as standard. As mentioned earlier, however, passive sports suspension was a cost option, dropping ride height by twenty millimetres. If you're planning to drive your GTS hard, we'd recommend looking for an example with the sport suspension package, which, combined with good quality tyres and skill behind the wheel, will light up any journey, the result of better-weighted steering, firmer springs, a lower centre of gravity and more direct feedback.
Sport Chrono is standard and, in Sport Plus mode, will introduce auto-blip rev matching on manual downshifts. Dynamic gearbox mounts are also at play.
INTERIOR & ELECTRICS
The materials Porsche used for 981 interiors are incredibly robust, but be mindful of possible driver's seat bolster wear, The only real complaint we've come across is weak switchgear. More specifically, the electric window switches, door mirror switches and heater control switches become brittle and can snap. The electrics themselves cause no problems, though dash warning lights suggesting otherwise can be triggered by a battery running low voltage.
Needless to say, it's a good idea to keep your 981 connected to a trickle charger, avoiding low battery voltage during rest. Elsewhere, scuttle drains can get blocked over time, especially on a 981 left standing outside for long periods. It's essential these are regularly cleaned, else rainwater will flood the scuttle pan and litres of water will seep behind the dashboard, playing havoc with some of the 981's electrical systems. If fitted, the Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) is particularly susceptible to error, causing alerts to be sent to Vodafone, the company responsible for monitoring the whereabouts and safety of the car.
We love the 981 Cayman GTS and can't think of a single reason why you shouldn't buy one. Our only criticism is the in-car infotainment system user interface and display, which looks very dated, though it's worth remembering the 981 platform was first introduced in 2012. A replacement aftermarket head unit boasting smartphone connectivity and integration with all your favourite apps is a wise move. There are many available systems to choose from. ●