Since the Porsche Cayman was introduced two decades ago, it has played second string in the sports car lineup to Porsche vaunted 911. Here’s the thing, though, it’s actually a better car for most applications. While Porsche never really gave the car enough power to compete with its older siblings on track, the mid-engine layout and lighter weight platform made it more nimble and downright capable of slaying giants. Does that hold up when the tarmac is swapped out for gravel or snow? FCP Euro built this Cayman as a stage rally car to find out.
What does a Cayman need to become a proper stage rally monster? Honestly not that much. In addition to the safety equipment like a roll cage and racing seats, the car is pretty well set up from the off. FCP Euro had to relocate the car’s front bumper radiators to make them less vulnerable to rock punctures, and the car’s side intakes were relocated to a bespoke roof vent. The best mod for rally, however, was a little extra ride height, thanks to some coilovers, and some proper rally wheels and tires. Obviously no rally build would be complete without a full spate of giant Hella lamps on the hood.
Here’s the thing, can a Cayman even rally? FCP sent their car in stock form to Team O’Neil Rally School to find out.
Yeah, I think it will rally. Follow along with the rest of FCP’s build series in upcoming episodes on the company’s YouTube channel. I’ve seen the finished product, and it’s pretty dang cool.