Drivers Log.(News)

2007 Porsche Cayman

Date in fleet: Feb. 12-20 As-tested price: $56,395 Drivetrain: 2.7-liter H6; rwd, five-speed manual Output: 245 hp @ 6500 rpm, 201 lb-ft @ 4600-6000 rpm Curb weight: 2866 lbs Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 26/28.8 mpg

MORRISON: Porsche sent this Cayman our way (again, as I believe it's the same car we drove previously) so we could try it with winter tires, and for once the weather cooperated and dropped some significant snow-a good two to three inches, maybe a bit more in some places-on the D. The car handled it with aplomb. I don't think it performed quite as well as our long-term 911 in similar conditions last year; in all likelihood, that's because of the Cayman's mid-engine layout, as opposed to the 911's true rear-engine setup. But I didn't have any problems slogging my way along. It struggled getting off the line a couple of times when I happened to start off in particularly deep snow, but it took just a little patience on my part. Once up to speed, the Cayman was fine.

A part of me doesn't want to admit it, but I appreciated the traction and stability control. You would be okay without it, but you'd have to exercise more effort and skill to accomplish what is an almost mindless task with the system switched on: Just put your foot to the floor, and let the car work it all out, which it does easily. That's not in keeping with the pride we take in using our skills to good effect, but even the most devoted sometimes just want to make the commute home with minimal effort after a long day. You can do that with this car, or any car so equipped. If you feel like practicing your car control, switch it all off, which I did a few times. But it's nice to have the ...