Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 / BMW M2 Competition F87
Track-Proven Rivals: Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 vs BMW M2 Competition F87
The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 and BMW M2 Competition F87 represent two distinct approaches to performance, yet LapMeta's comprehensive data reveals remarkably close competition. With 684 head-to-head lap comparisons across 77 common tracks, these cars have been thoroughly tested against each other—and the results might surprise you. Average lap time difference: just 5.91 seconds, with battles as close as 0 seconds.
The Specifications
Porsche 981 Cayman GT4:
- Engine: 3.8 Flat 6
- Power: 385 hp / 420.3 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3050 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.92 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 6spd Manual
- 0-60 mph: 4s
- Current Value: $94000
BMW M2 Competition F87:
- Engine: 3.0 L S55B30T0 twin-turbocharged
- Power: 415 hp / 550.46 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3640 lbs (Power-to-weight: 8.77 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 6-Speed Manual Transmission or 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)
- 0-60 mph: 4s
- Current Value: $65000
Track Performance Analysis
Across 684 recorded laps on 77 different tracks, the data reveals:
- Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 faster: 408 times (59.6%)
- BMW M2 Competition F87 faster: 272 times (39.8%)
- Average difference: 5.91 seconds
- Closest battle: 0 seconds
The 30 hp power difference and 590 pound weight gap create distinct performance characteristics. The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4's 7.92 lbs/hp power-to-weight ratio compares to the BMW M2 Competition F87's 8.77 lbs/hp, explaining much of the on-track dynamic.
The Economics
Current market values show a $29000 gap, with the Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 at $94000 and the BMW M2 Competition F87 at $65000. This price difference—combined with the minimal lap time gap—makes the value proposition clear for budget-conscious track enthusiasts.
The Verdict
With only 5.91 seconds separating these cars on average, driver skill and setup matter far more than spec sheet numbers. The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 wins 59.6% of battles, but the margins are close enough that track conditions, tire choice, and driver experience swing results regularly.
Choose the Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 if you value its engineering approach and are willing to pay the $29000 premium. Choose the BMW M2 Competition F87 if near-identical performance at a different price point appeals to you. Both are proven track weapons with 77 tracks of data backing their capabilities.