[rhogg]

My understanding is the 2009-2012 cars are virtually identical. There is the Black edition and the R which were late model sales boosters.

The 2006-2008 cars differ quite a bit from the 2009+ The base 2009 has similar power to the previous S. The automatic became the excellent PDK in 2009. There are known track issues with the earlier cars. On top of this you have the IMS issue.

As a result there is a significant price difference between the 987.1 and the 987.2.

Last fall I bought a 2009 S with PDK and it is an excellent modern car. I also have a 1983 SC which I love. The handling difference is very noticeable. PDK is a little odd, a little clunky from start, but excellent and a lot of fun. Buying used a pdk guarantees you haven't had over-revs. It seems very robust. In 2009 its the push/pull integrated paddles; later years its the more typical left right paddles set off from the steering wheel.

When I bought my 83 I paid a lot and got an excellent car (through pelican) There is no money saved buying "cheap" used cars. Buying quality used saves you way more through increased reliability and reduced maintenance.

Good luck. The Cayman is a great car - fast, fun, precise. Having said that I still choose the SC more often than not!