Models · Porsche
Porsche Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder 981 buying guide
The 981 Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder, built from 2015 to 2016, share a 3.8 flat six from the 911 Carrera S and a six-speed manual gearbox. Both are mechanically straightforward; most checks are about how hard the car has been used.
The versions
- Cayman GT4: 3.8 flat six (MA1.24), 385PS
- Boxster Spyder: 3.8 flat six (MA1.24), 375PS
- 6-speed manual only, rear-wheel drive
- Optional carbon ceramic brakes and full bucket seats
- The GT4 Clubsport race car is a separate, PDK-equipped model and not covered here
What to check on a 981 GT4 or Spyder
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Over-rev record
What to look for: Ask for a diagnostic readout, or have a specialist do one. It shows engine over-rev events in ranges, with the engine hours at the most recent one.
Why it matters: The engine computer logs every time the revs went past the limit. A few low-range events are normal. Events in the higher ranges usually mean a missed gearchange on a manual, which can damage the engine, and they can affect warranty claims.
Carbon ceramic brakes, if fitted
What to look for: Carbon ceramic discs have yellow calipers. Look at each disc face and edge with a torch for chips, cracks running from the drilled holes, or a heavily pitted surface. Ask about track use and when the discs were last measured.
Why it matters: Carbon ceramic discs last a long time on the road but wear faster with hard track use. Their wear is measured by weighing the disc rather than by its thickness, so a specialist inspection with a recorded result is the way to know. Replacement discs are a major expense.
The nose and underside
What to look for: Kneel at the front and look under the front splitter and bumper for scrapes, cracks and missing fixings. Look along the underside for grounding marks.
Why it matters: These cars sit low and many are used on track. Scrapes under the nose are common and usually cosmetic; cracked mounts or a replaced splitter can point to a harder impact, so ask what happened.
Also in the full guide
- Front radiators and condensers
- The Spyder's roof
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 981 GT4 or Spyder
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Porsche.