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New manual-only Porsche Cayman GT4 is here to take on the 911

The Geneva Motor Show next month was always going to be salivating prospect for hardcore Porsche fans with the manufacturer set to reveal the new Porsche 991 GT3 RS.

However, a young upstart will also be present on Porsche’s stand with the announcement that the upcoming Porsche Cayman GT4, the latest addition to Weissach’s storied GT model roster, will also debut at the Swiss show.

The new Porsche Cayman GT4 makes use of the 991 Carrera S’s 3.8-litre flat six powerplant, down-tuned to develop 385hp at 7,400rpm. However, in a marked shift away from the current GT philosophy, the Cayman GT4 will only transmit its power through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Porsche Cayman GT4 rear

Weighing in at 1,340kg (nearly 100kg lighter than the Porsche 991 GT3) the new Cayman GT4 sits 30mm lower than a standard Cayman, with the chassis making extensive use of 911 GT3 suspension and brake components.

Tuned by Andreas Preuninger’s famed Weissach-based GT department, Porsche are claiming the new Cayman GT4 can lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7m40s, just over ten seconds slower than the 475hp Porsche 991 GT3.

Inside, there is extensive use of Alcantara trim on the dashboard, door cards, seats and gear lever (as to be expected from Porsche’s GT models) while, the 918 Spyder-style steering wheel gives a hint as to what we can expect from the Porsche 991 GT3 RS’s interior. There is also the option of carbon-backed bucket seats and the iconic Clubsport package.

Porsche Cayman GT4 interior

Despite using the ‘slower’ manual gearbox, the new Porsche Cayman GT4 can sprint from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds, the same as a PDK-equipped Porsche 991 Carrera in Sport Plus mode

Combined with its £64,451 pricetag (£9,058 cheaper than a standard 991 Carrera), the Cayman GT4 is set to be a true in-house Porsche 911 rival upon its launch to the public in March.

What do you make of the Porsche Cayman GT4? Would it tempt you to switch from your Porsche 911? Join the debate in the comments below or head to our Facebook and Twitter pages now

Porsche Cayman GT4

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