BMW 335i vs Cayman S

Traceaz · 07-14-2006, 09:47 AM

When I spec out my 335i the way I want it, the MSRP is 48k and change. With the Navi delay now however, I wont get it for another 5 to 5 1/2 months, even though Im #1 on the allocation slot at my dealer here in town.

On Autotrader, there are a lot of 2006 Cayman S's listed in the 58k to 61k range, most slightly used with 200 to 6000 miles with decent options. I'm sure you could get them for about 2-3k less than what they list, and the supply of them on dealership lots seem to be going up fast. I would guess that in 5-6 months, they will sell for 5-7k less than what they are selling for now as they seem to be depreciating fast and dealers are giving steep discounts on them now.

So, in 5-6k months, you can pick up a 335i for 46k to 48k, brand new. OR, you can pick up a slightly used, but 2006 Cayman S, with low miles probably 1000 to 7000 miles, for 50 to 52k.

They have almost the same exact horsepower, the 335i has about 50 more lbs of torque, but the Cayman S weighs 600 lbs less. 0-60 for the Cayman S has most tests doing it in 4.8 to 5.0 seconds, the 335i is 5.3 seconds, but I bet it hits 5.15 to 5.2 in real world tests.

Which do you buy? Do you get the 335i brand new, or do you get a 2006 Cayman S used but still a 2006 with very low miles? Essentially a Cayman S will be about 4k to 5k more.

Assume you don't need rear seats (Im single and dont have any kids).

Also, I realize this is a BMW forum so I'm likely to get more pro-BMW responses, but humor me anyway. I'm posting the same thing on CaymanClub.net. Also, no suggestions to get a regular Cayman, the HP will be too low and it will be way too slow for my taste.

Thoughts, everyone? I'm debating whether to go through with my 335i order or wait till December and buy a Cayman S (since I wouldnt get either car until then, anyway). I'm starting to wonder if just waiting, paying 5k more, and getting a Cayman S is a better deal, and certainly a more exclusive car. Im not sure though.

Give me your thoughts everyone. Thanks in advance!

ToddPhilly · 07-14-2006, 09:53 AM

I'm in your same boat. I'm holding my opinion until I get behind the drivers wheel of the 335. Hands down I LOVE the way the Cayman S drives. That part is going to be tough to beat. The 2 factors that are weighing heavy in favor of the 335 for me are:

1. Equipment: the 335 comes with way more features than even a well optioned Cayman. The bluetooth, comfort access, navigation with traffic, push button start, etc. might be very nice creature comforts if your car will be a daily driver.

2. Maintenance: regular service on a porsche is not cheap. A front brake job will cost you around $900, and an oil service around $300. When you consider this is free on the bimmer, that must be factored in.

In the end, I'm hoping the 335 will win me over. I'm in the bmwcca so I also get the $500 rebate. Plus, I'm hoping to do a performance center delivery in SC.

ksfrogman · 07-14-2006, 09:54 AM

You should read Car and Driver's recent comparison between the Z4 M and the Cayman S.

http://www.caranddriver.com/comparis...-cayman-s.html

Comparing the 335i Coupe against the Cayman S is comparing Apples to Oranges. It takes a lot of power and torque to overcome a small increase in weight.

vladinecko · 07-14-2006, 09:54 AM

i've had the same thoughts recently but comparing Z4 M Coupe and Cayman S since that's more in the same vehicle class. i absolutely get what you're saying. porsche is porsche, it is definitely a step above BMW in terms of car craftsmanship. if you don't mind getting a used car and are willing to pay that extra $4-6k, i see no reason why you shouldn't get the Cayman.

Bimmerista · 07-14-2006, 09:56 AM

Guys, these are completely different cars- the Cayman will outhandle, out accelerate and outbreak the 335.

However, aside from the fact that there is a price difference, the 335 is a coupe which is much better at everyday driving, not to mention has 4 seats, is more comfortable etc.

The choice is really between what you want-a coupe or a sports car.

Bimmerista · 07-14-2006, 09:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JonBMW

I would go with the 335i. While you are looking for horsepower etc, the cayman is ultimately an SUV. The 335i has a sleek body line and will look pretty money on the road. I know the Cayman is a porsche but, the BMW is a speed performance vehicle and may look more sporty. Both are nice cars, you cant really go wrong but its whether you want an SUV or a car.

Good Luck!

Cayman S BTW is the hard-top version of the Boxter; not the Cayenne truck

vladinecko · 07-14-2006, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ToddPhilly

1. Equipment: the 335 comes with way more features than even a well optioned Cayman. The bluetooth, comfort access, navigation with traffic, push button start, etc. might be very nice creature comforts if your car will be a daily driver.

2. Maintenance: regular service on a porsche is not cheap. A front brake job will cost you around $900, and an oil service around $300. When you consider this is free on the bimmer, that must be factored in.

this is very true. BMW definitely packs a lot more goodies in the package than porsche does. it would simply your call if you want an incredible driving experience (cayman) or a really good driving experience and lots of features with it (BMW).

BMWDavid · 07-14-2006, 11:08 AM

I didn't like the brakes on the Cayman. I thought they would be more responsive for such a light car. I'd get ceramics, but that's just me. I would get the Cayman over the 335. I sell Porsche and BMW. Single, don't need rear seats... Cayman S.

stressdoc · 07-14-2006, 11:24 AM

The choice for me would be btw the Z4 M coupe and the Cayman S. The 335 is a proper 4-seater, and a more reasonable everyday driver. The deciding factor for me is ED. That makes the 335 much more affordable and fun to pick up. Otherwise I would go for the Cayman, Boxster, or 996 if I could deal with the level of social elitism that such a car entails in my environs.

danglez1234 · 07-14-2006, 11:26 AM

get the cayman S

ALPINE6SPD · 07-14-2006, 11:46 AM

get the cayman if you dont need a backseat

MrSilver · 07-14-2006, 12:07 PM

I am in love with the Cayman S...

Here is the way I would break it down:

Looks: Cayman
Performance: Cayman
Practicability: BMW

I need a car that I can drive in the snow, and with snow tires the 335i will get me through a winter and I will still be driving a performance vehicle.

If I lived in a climate where snow was not an issue, I'd go with Porsche.

E394KEN · 07-14-2006, 12:09 PM

Dude no contest Cayman S. If you have a family and its a daily driver then the 335. Ive been in your shoes so I feel you. I bought a 350Z back in 03, then I got a full size Hemi Ram 1500 to compensate for lack of load and people carrying ability. In the end the Z just stood there and wasnt even driven a complete waste since it was a really nice car to drive. I ended up trading my z for my wifes then 330i, and traded in the truck for a soon to be then 530i.

I miss the truck and Z to be honest. But in the real world a two seater is always great as a second or third car, not a primary one. Now as far as how the Cayman drives, truely incredible, Ive had the chance to test drive one. It corners better than the 997 911, and is easier to drive for the first time Porsche guy. It makes this sound at full throttle that will make you just want to plant your green backs right there and then for it.

BMW makes great automobiles, but Porsche If I may use their cliche, there is no substitute. If you get a Cayman S make sure it has PASM and Sports Chrono MUST HAVE OPTIONS...

obLu · 07-14-2006, 12:14 PM

Cayman. Easy choice. I'm just surprised as hell that they're already on the used car market?!?

Do Porsche dealers give discounts in So Cal? Up here you're lucky if you're just paying MSRP.

Back when I bought my 330 convertible, I almost bought a Boxster instead using the same reasoning you are. But then by the time I went through the options list, to get the Boxster at anything above completely stripped it was 6k more than the 330cic. Worse yet, when I went to the local Porsche dealer they refused to order me the Boxster the way I wanted with out a 50% deposit claiming they'd never be able to sell it if I backed out. Didn't really want it out of the ordinary, but I didn't want to pay 6k for leather, and $400 for embroidered crests on the headrest. Or $300 for painted crests on the wheels, $1200 for body colored roll hoops, etc etc.

BK · 07-14-2006, 12:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TracerHawk

Which do you buy? Do you get the 335i brand new, or do you get a 2006 Cayman S used but still a 2006 with very low miles? Essentially a Cayman S will be about 4k to 5k more.

Dude! If the Cayman S is a reasonable choice for you (it wouldn't be for me, as I need a back seat), you buy the freakin' Cayman S. I can't even believe you'd hesitate about that decision.

Asiann · 07-14-2006, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ALPINE6SPD

get the cayman if you dont need a backseat

I second that vote for the Porsche! What better way to live a single life than to have a car that screams I'm single. No need for bluetooth on that car.

LWL · 07-14-2006, 12:37 PM

I vote for PORSCHE. I love Cayman S since day 1 it was introduced, just wish I have the money to get a cayman S.

ALPINE6SPD · 07-14-2006, 12:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Asiann

I second that vote for the Porsche! What better way to live a single life than to have a car that screams I'm single. No need for bluetooth on that car.

Plus if you go out whith a chick you dont have to take her friends because you only have a 2 seater.

timoth31 · 07-14-2006, 12:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BK

Dude! If the Cayman S is a reasonable choice for you (it wouldn't be for me, as I need a back seat), you buy the freakin' Cayman S. I can't even believe you'd hesitate about that decision.

Amen to that. You buy a 330i to console yourself while hauling small children to and fro. What really upset me was that the E90 Familymobile wasn't even included in Consumer Reports' recent comparison of family sedans.

The only meaningful disadvantage of the Porsche is the lack of a back seat. Then again, if you can afford a Cayman S, you can afford to take your date to a hotel room rather than go "parking".

timoth31 · 07-14-2006, 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ALPINE6SPD

Plus if you go out whith a chick you dont have to take her friends because you only have a 2 seater.

This may be an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on (a) how hot you find her friends and (b) how hot *she* finds her friends.

ALPINE6SPD · 07-14-2006, 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by obLu

Cayman. Easy choice. I'm just surprised as hell that they're already on the used car market?!?

Do Porsche dealers give discounts in So Cal? Up here you're lucky if you're just paying MSRP.

Back when I bought my 330 convertible, I almost bought a Boxster instead using the same reasoning you are. But then by the time I went through the options list, to get the Boxster at anything above completely stripped it was 6k more than the 330cic. Worse yet, when I went to the local Porsche dealer they refused to order me the Boxster the way I wanted with out a 50% deposit claiming they'd never be able to sell it if I backed out. Didn't really want it out of the ordinary, but I didn't want to pay 6k for leather, and $400 for embroidered crests on the headrest. Or $300 for painted crests on the wheels, $1200 for body colored roll hoops, etc etc.

Come to NJ then. They will take off $4000 right away on a cayman here. Sales are VERY slow on the car due to the outrageous sticker price with any options.

mkoesel · 07-14-2006, 12:50 PM

My rule:

buy a two seater if you have no kids
buy a 4 seat coupe/vert if you have small kids
buy a 4 sedan if you have large kids or need to ferry clients

Simple.

No way in hell you should be considering 335i if you can get away with a Cayman S. Of course I'd probably look seriously at Z4 M coupe, instead, and probably even more seriously at Lotus Exige. But that's my preference.

07-14-2006, 09:47 AM	#1
Traceaz First Lieutenant 21 Rep 341 Posts Drives: 2019 BMW M550i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Los Angeles, CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 BMW 335i coupe [0.00]	BMW 335i vs Cayman S When I spec out my 335i the way I want it, the MSRP is 48k and change. With the Navi delay now however, I wont get it for another 5 to 5 1/2 months, even though Im #1 on the allocation slot at my dealer here in town. On Autotrader, there are a lot of 2006 Cayman S's listed in the 58k to 61k range, most slightly used with 200 to 6000 miles with decent options. I'm sure you could get them for about 2-3k less than what they list, and the supply of them on dealership lots seem to be going up fast. I would guess that in 5-6 months, they will sell for 5-7k less than what they are selling for now as they seem to be depreciating fast and dealers are giving steep discounts on them now. So, in 5-6k months, you can pick up a 335i for 46k to 48k, brand new. OR, you can pick up a slightly used, but 2006 Cayman S, with low miles probably 1000 to 7000 miles, for 50 to 52k. They have almost the same exact horsepower, the 335i has about 50 more lbs of torque, but the Cayman S weighs 600 lbs less. 0-60 for the Cayman S has most tests doing it in 4.8 to 5.0 seconds, the 335i is 5.3 seconds, but I bet it hits 5.15 to 5.2 in real world tests. Which do you buy? Do you get the 335i brand new, or do you get a 2006 Cayman S used but still a 2006 with very low miles? Essentially a Cayman S will be about 4k to 5k more. Assume you don't need rear seats (Im single and dont have any kids). Also, I realize this is a BMW forum so I'm likely to get more pro-BMW responses, but humor me anyway. I'm posting the same thing on CaymanClub.net. Also, no suggestions to get a regular Cayman, the HP will be too low and it will be way too slow for my taste. Thoughts, everyone? I'm debating whether to go through with my 335i order or wait till December and buy a Cayman S (since I wouldnt get either car until then, anyway). I'm starting to wonder if just waiting, paying 5k more, and getting a Cayman S is a better deal, and certainly a more exclusive car. Im not sure though. Give me your thoughts everyone. Thanks in advance! Last edited by Traceaz; 07-14-2006 at 10:03 AM..
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07-14-2006, 09:53 AM	#2
ToddPhilly First Lieutenant 19 Rep 313 Posts Drives: BMW 335i Coupe Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: King of Prussia, PA iTrader: (0)	I'm in your same boat. I'm holding my opinion until I get behind the drivers wheel of the 335. Hands down I LOVE the way the Cayman S drives. That part is going to be tough to beat. The 2 factors that are weighing heavy in favor of the 335 for me are: 1. Equipment: the 335 comes with way more features than even a well optioned Cayman. The bluetooth, comfort access, navigation with traffic, push button start, etc. might be very nice creature comforts if your car will be a daily driver. 2. Maintenance: regular service on a porsche is not cheap. A front brake job will cost you around $900, and an oil service around $300. When you consider this is free on the bimmer, that must be factored in. In the end, I'm hoping the 335 will win me over. I'm in the bmwcca so I also get the $500 rebate. Plus, I'm hoping to do a performance center delivery in SC.
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07-14-2006, 09:54 AM	#3
ksfrogman Major General 576 Rep 6,750 Posts Drives: E90 330i 6MT Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Torrance, CA iTrader: (12) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00] 2006 330i [0.00]	You should read Car and Driver's recent comparison between the Z4 M and the Cayman S. http://www.caranddriver.com/comparis...-cayman-s.html Comparing the 335i Coupe against the Cayman S is comparing Apples to Oranges. It takes a lot of power and torque to overcome a small increase in weight. __________________
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07-14-2006, 09:54 AM	#4
vladinecko Brigadier General 283 Rep 3,924 Posts Drives: '11 E92 M3 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Bay Area, CA iTrader: (1) Garage List 2011 BMW M3 [9.00] 2008 BMW 335i [0.00] 2006 BMW 330i [0.00] 1994 BMW 325i [0.00]	i've had the same thoughts recently but comparing Z4 M Coupe and Cayman S since that's more in the same vehicle class. i absolutely get what you're saying. porsche is porsche, it is definitely a step above BMW in terms of car craftsmanship. if you don't mind getting a used car and are willing to pay that extra $4-6k, i see no reason why you shouldn't get the Cayman. __________________ 2011 E92 M3 - IB/Beige/Sycamore Wood/6MT/EDC/ZPP2/Nav/PDC/Heated Seats/iPod-USB/Enh. Audio 2008 E92 335i - Montego Blue/Black/Gray Poplar/6MT/ZPP/ZSP/Nav/PDC/Heated Seats/HDRadio/iPod-USB - *Sold* 2006 E90 330i - Mystic Blue/Black/Aluminum/6MT/ZPP/iDrive/PDC/Heated Seats/Sat. Prep - *Sold* 1994 E36 325i - Boston Green/Beige/Automatic/ZPP/Heated Seats/Premium Sound - *Sold*
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07-14-2006, 09:56 AM	#5
Bimmerista Major General 82 Rep 5,732 Posts Drives: superstock Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada iTrader: (0)	Guys, these are completely different cars- the Cayman will outhandle, out accelerate and outbreak the 335. However, aside from the fact that there is a price difference, the 335 is a coupe which is much better at everyday driving, not to mention has 4 seats, is more comfortable etc. The choice is really between what you want-a coupe or a sports car.
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07-14-2006, 11:08 AM	#8
BMWDavid 435 Rep 860 Posts Drives: MSport F30 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: BMW Secret Test Facilities iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 BMW M3 Sedan [0.00] 2005(sold but not f ... [10.00] 2006 X3 [0.00] 1984 633csi [0.00]	I didn't like the brakes on the Cayman. I thought they would be more responsive for such a light car. I'd get ceramics, but that's just me. I would get the Cayman over the 335. I sell Porsche and BMW. Single, don't need rear seats... Cayman S. __________________
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07-14-2006, 11:24 AM	#9
stressdoc Moderator 618 Rep 10,858 Posts Drives: BMW i8; Toy 4runner TRD pro Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Waco TX iTrader: (0)	The choice for me would be btw the Z4 M coupe and the Cayman S. The 335 is a proper 4-seater, and a more reasonable everyday driver. The deciding factor for me is ED. That makes the 335 much more affordable and fun to pick up. Otherwise I would go for the Cayman, Boxster, or 996 if I could deal with the level of social elitism that such a car entails in my environs.
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07-14-2006, 11:26 AM	#10
danglez1234 Private First Class 3 Rep 155 Posts Drives: civic Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: long island jericho iTrader: (0)	get the cayman S
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07-14-2006, 11:46 AM	#11
ALPINE6SPD Lieutenant General 156 Rep 10,411 Posts Drives: 2010 BMW 328i Sport Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Highland Lakes NJ iTrader: (2)	get the cayman if you dont need a backseat __________________ 2010 AW e90 328i: 6 speed, Black Leather, Dark Wood trim, ZPP, ZCW, ZVP,ZSP, Nav, Xenon BMW Performance CF Rear spolier and Gloss black grills 2008 Candy White MKV GTI 2.0T 6 Speed Manul Gone 2008 AW X3 3.0si: 6 speed Returned 2006 AW e90 330i: 6 speed Dinan Stage 1 Returned
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07-14-2006, 12:07 PM	#12
MrSilver Judge Advocate General 99 Rep 1,128 Posts Drives: e92 335i Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Buffalo, New York iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 e92 335i [0.00]	I am in love with the Cayman S... Here is the way I would break it down: Looks: Cayman Performance: Cayman Practicability: BMW I need a car that I can drive in the snow, and with snow tires the 335i will get me through a winter and I will still be driving a performance vehicle. If I lived in a climate where snow was not an issue, I'd go with Porsche. __________________ '07 E92 335i "Over-Heating" and "Blowing Up" since 9-5-06 6MT, Space Gray, Gray w/ Dakota Leather, Dark Burl, ZSP, ZPP, ZCW Comfort Access, Sirius Satellite (Howard is not optional) '07 X3 3.0si - Black on Black, ZPP, ZCW, Step. - Wife's car
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07-14-2006, 12:09 PM	#13
E394KEN M3//4KEN 10 Rep 409 Posts Drives: E46 M3 & E90 335i (Woosh!) Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ventura, CA iTrader: (0)	Dude no contest Cayman S. If you have a family and its a daily driver then the 335. Ive been in your shoes so I feel you. I bought a 350Z back in 03, then I got a full size Hemi Ram 1500 to compensate for lack of load and people carrying ability. In the end the Z just stood there and wasnt even driven a complete waste since it was a really nice car to drive. I ended up trading my z for my wifes then 330i, and traded in the truck for a soon to be then 530i. I miss the truck and Z to be honest. But in the real world a two seater is always great as a second or third car, not a primary one. Now as far as how the Cayman drives, truely incredible, Ive had the chance to test drive one. It corners better than the 997 911, and is easier to drive for the first time Porsche guy. It makes this sound at full throttle that will make you just want to plant your green backs right there and then for it. BMW makes great automobiles, but Porsche If I may use their cliche, there is no substitute. If you get a Cayman S make sure it has PASM and Sports Chrono MUST HAVE OPTIONS...
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07-14-2006, 12:14 PM	#14
obLu Major 50 Rep 1,159 Posts Drives: 330i 6MT ZSP Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Kirkland, WA, USA iTrader: (1)	Cayman. Easy choice. I'm just surprised as hell that they're already on the used car market?!? Do Porsche dealers give discounts in So Cal? Up here you're lucky if you're just paying MSRP. Back when I bought my 330 convertible, I almost bought a Boxster instead using the same reasoning you are. But then by the time I went through the options list, to get the Boxster at anything above completely stripped it was 6k more than the 330cic. Worse yet, when I went to the local Porsche dealer they refused to order me the Boxster the way I wanted with out a 50% deposit claiming they'd never be able to sell it if I backed out. Didn't really want it out of the ordinary, but I didn't want to pay 6k for leather, and $400 for embroidered crests on the headrest. Or $300 for painted crests on the wheels, $1200 for body colored roll hoops, etc etc.
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07-14-2006, 12:37 PM	#17
LWL Major 57 Rep 1,008 Posts Drives: G05 X5 Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: San Francisco iTrader: (2) Garage List 2006 330i [6.00] 2005 Mercedes Benz ... [7.00]	I vote for PORSCHE. I love Cayman S since day 1 it was introduced, just wish I have the money to get a cayman S. __________________
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07-14-2006, 12:50 PM	#22
mkoesel Moderator 7517 Rep 19,368 Posts Drives: No BMW for now Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Canton, MI iTrader: (1)	My rule: buy a two seater if you have no kids buy a 4 seat coupe/vert if you have small kids buy a 4 sedan if you have large kids or need to ferry clients Simple. No way in hell you should be considering 335i if you can get away with a Cayman S. Of course I'd probably look seriously at Z4 M coupe, instead, and probably even more seriously at Lotus Exige. But that's my preference.
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