Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 / Ford Mustang GT S550
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and the Ford Mustang GT S550 represent two distinct approaches to performance driving, each with its own strengths rooted in their engineering philosophies and design priorities. While both are rear-wheel-drive sports cars, their differences in engine configuration, weight, and chassis dynamics play a significant role in how they perform on track.
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4, powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six producing 414 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, is a lightweight, mid-engine sports car weighing just 3,247 lbs. Its compact dimensions and balanced weight distribution contribute to exceptional agility and cornering precision. With a 0-60 mph time of 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 189 mph, the GT4 excels in technical and twisty circuits where handling finesse and braking stability are paramount.
In contrast, the Ford Mustang GT S550 features a larger 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering 435 horsepower, slightly more than the Porsche, but it carries a heavier curb weight of 3,705 lbs and has a longer wheelbase. Its 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 164 mph reflect a muscle car character focused more on straight-line power and torque delivery. The Mustang’s chassis and suspension setup favor strong acceleration and stability at higher speeds, but its bulk and weight limit its nimbleness compared to the GT4.
Lap time data across a variety of tracks highlights these differences clearly. On technical circuits such as Portland International Raceway with its chicane, the Porsche GT4 outpaces the Mustang by over six seconds (1:24.674 vs. 1:31.000) under similar light modification and tire conditions. This trend repeats on other demanding tracks like Thunderhill, Spa-Francorchamps, Sonoma Raceway, and Sydney Motorsport Park, where the GT4 consistently posts faster laps by margins ranging from 3 to 9 seconds. The GT4’s superior cornering ability and braking efficiency allow it to carry more speed through complex turns, translating into better overall lap times.
However, the Mustang shows competitive performance on tracks favoring long straights and high-speed stability. For example, at Road Atlanta, the Mustang’s lap time of 1:39.400 is closer to the GT4’s 1:32.240, reflecting the Mustang’s strength in power delivery and momentum retention. Still, the GT4 maintains an advantage due to its lighter weight and sharper handling. The Mustang’s heavier weight and less sophisticated chassis tuning result in slower cornering speeds and longer braking distances, which accumulate time losses on more technical circuits.
Modifications and tire choices also influence performance outcomes. Both cars perform best with medium to light modifications and high UTQG tires, but the Porsche’s chassis and engine respond more effectively to these changes, enhancing its already precise dynamics. The Mustang benefits from increased tire grip and suspension upgrades to mitigate its weight disadvantage, but it rarely matches the GT4’s lap times on technical tracks.
In summary, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 is a finely balanced, driver-focused sports car that excels in agility, braking, and cornering, making it the superior choice for drivers prioritizing lap times on twisty and technical circuits. The Ford Mustang GT S550, while powerful and muscular with a strong straight-line presence, is best suited for those who value raw power and high-speed stability over nimble handling. Both cars offer compelling performance, but their distinct characteristics cater to different driving styles and track demands.