Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 / Nissan GT-R R35
Track-Proven Rivals: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 vs Nissan GT-R R35
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and Nissan GT-R R35 represent two distinct approaches to performance, yet LapMeta's comprehensive data reveals remarkably close competition. With 501 head-to-head lap comparisons across 67 common tracks, these cars have been thoroughly tested against each other—and the results might surprise you. Average lap time difference: just 7.12 seconds, with battles as close as 0.07 seconds.
The Specifications
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4:
- Engine: 4.0L DOHC 24-valve flat-6
- Power: 414 hp / 429.79 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3247 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.84 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 6spd Manual or 7 Speed PDK
- 0-60 mph: 3s
- Current Value: $125000
Nissan GT-R R35:
- Engine: 3.8 L V6
- Power: 545 hp / 627.74 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3829 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.03 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: AWD | 6-speed automated sequential transmission with manual mode
- 0-60 mph: 3s
- Current Value: $85000
Track Performance Analysis
Across 501 recorded laps on 67 different tracks, the data reveals:
- Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 faster: 168 times (33.5%)
- Nissan GT-R R35 faster: 333 times (66.5%)
- Average difference: 7.12 seconds
- Closest battle: 0.07 seconds
The 131 hp power difference and 582 pound weight gap create distinct performance characteristics. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4's 7.84 lbs/hp power-to-weight ratio compares to the Nissan GT-R R35's 7.03 lbs/hp, explaining much of the on-track dynamic.
The Economics
Current market values show a $40000 gap, with the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 at $125000 and the Nissan GT-R R35 at $85000. This price difference—combined with the minimal lap time gap—makes the value proposition clear for budget-conscious track enthusiasts.
The Verdict
With only 7.12 seconds separating these cars on average, driver skill and setup matter far more than spec sheet numbers. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 wins 33.5% of battles, but the margins are close enough that track conditions, tire choice, and driver experience swing results regularly.
Choose the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 if you value its engineering approach and are willing to pay the $40000 premium. Choose the Nissan GT-R R35 if near-identical performance at a different price point appeals to you. Both are proven track weapons with 67 tracks of data backing their capabilities.