The 2011 Boxster Spyder, built to remember the lightweight days of sportscars past, but with a fully modern interpretation of power and handling, may soon get a tin-top cousin: the Porsche Cayman Clubsport. Or at least that's the rumor that's cooking on the Web.
Power is said to come from a 333-horsepower 3.4-liter flat six-cylinder engine, and paired with a 20 mm lower version of Porsche's Sport PASM suspension, it's geared for handling. As well it should be: it's other primary focus is light weight. Aluminum doors, fabric door pulls, a lightweight hatch with optional lexan window (but only for Europe), lightweight wheels, and lighter sport seats combine for reported weight savings of between 162 and 184 pounds over the standard Cayman S.
That would put the curb weight around 2,814 pounds or less--almost spot-on the 2,811-pound curb weight of the Boxster Spyder. Wrap that into a 13-horsepower jump over the standard Cayman S, along with the improved and lowered suspension, and you have one high-performing, mid-engined Porsche.
Pricing is likely to be a notch above the Boxster Spyder's $61,000 starting price, putting it firmly on the heels of the base 911's asking price. Still, with its slightly lower power, more focused purpose, and less iconic silhouette and badge, it's not likely to step on its big brother's toes.
We'll keep our ears to the ground on this, as so far it's little more than Internet speculation. The rumors are saying we'll have a concept on the floor at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show, however, and as usual Motor Authority will be there to cover whatever may pop up.
