Porsche Cayman R

The car will do zero-to-60 in 4.7 seconds with the manual transmission and 4.6 seconds with the PDK, despite the fact that the manual is 55 pounds lighter. Back to story.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

The Cayman R uses aluminum in the doors; lighter, more uncomfortable, carbon-fiber backed seats; lightweight, 19-inch alloy wheels and the omission of niceties like air conditioning and a stereo, though said accoutrement can be added if the buyer desires. Back to story.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

The Cayman R’s carbon-fiber backed seats are lighter, but offer little in the way of comfort. Their stiff frame makes getting in and out of the car difficult. Back to story.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

The Cayman R starts at $67,250, including destination charge. Gas mileage is rated by the EPA at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway, though over my 244 miles, I averaged 16.3 mpg. Back to story.   (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

The version I tested went for $78,150, which included the PDK transmission, sport chrono package, the Peridot Metallic paint, and the the $2,810 Sports Exhaust option. Back to story.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)