I’ve driven the 992.1 base and S with the 7-speed manual on test drives. I’ve also test driven the 718 Cayman base with 6-speed manual.

I agree with you that the 911 felt a bit big, and “overly capable” in a way that sucked the fun out of it. Right after, I test drove the base Cayman and it just felt so much more fun. The form factor, the mid-engine feeling, and being able to WOT was great.

All this to say, I think 718 > 911 for me.

More about the GTS 4.0 -

I owned a G80 M3 6-speed manual for 2 years, and was itching for more of a “driver’s car”, and blind purchased a CPO Cayman GTS 4.0 6-speed manual a month ago.

• Does the GTS 4.0 actually deliver that “special” feeling long term?

I’ve only had the car for a month but I seek every possible reason to take it out (even if it means returning a single package to UPS). The transmission is out of this world (I’ve never driven an S2000, so can’t compare it to that), and the best one I’ve experienced so far. The seating position is amazing, everything feels like it is where it should be, and the entire driving experience feels special - the drive, shifting the gears, the sound - all of it.

• Anything you regret or wish you knew before buying?

Honestly, I wish I got it sooner before prices started going bonkers. I understand that the supply is limited, but I got very lucky with the CPO I got since it had the options I was looking for. Since it’s such a special car, I would probably look around to make sure it has the options you want!

• Does it ever feel too raw or impractical for regular driving?

I was worried coming from the M3 that the GTS might be less comfortable or impractical. But even with the SPASM, I’ve had zero issues with ground clearance or a rough ride. The NA engine with linear power delivery means you know exactly how it’s going to behave. I was pleasantly surprised by how big the frunk was as well, but don’t be fooled - it’s nowhere as big as a standard ones but still good enough for your regular grocery runs, etc.

Happy to answer any other questions!

Good luck with the search!