The Ultimate Guide to Porsche 718 Cayman Aftermarket Parts

The Porsche 718 Cayman is a mid-engine sports car that already delivers impressive performance straight from the factory. However, many owners look to aftermarket parts to personalize their car, improve driving dynamics, or extract more power. This guide covers the most popular aftermarket upgrades for the 718 Cayman, what to look for when shopping, and practical advice for making smart modifications.

Why Upgrade Your 718 Cayman?

The 718 Cayman (2017–present) comes in several variants: base 2.0L turbo, S with 2.5L turbo, GTS, GT4, and Spyder. While each is capable, aftermarket parts can address common desires like a more aggressive exhaust note, sharper handling, or increased horsepower. Upgrades also let you tailor the car to your driving style—whether that’s track-focused, weekend canyon carving, or daily driving comfort.

Common Aftermarket Parts Categories

Exhaust Systems

One of the most popular modifications is an aftermarket exhaust. A cat-back exhaust system can shed weight, improve sound, and sometimes add minor power gains. For the 718, options range from mild to wild. Axle-back systems replace only the mufflers for a deeper tone, while cat-back systems replace everything from the catalytic converters back. Full headers and track pipes are available for those seeking maximum flow and volume, but they may require a tune for proper operation.

Consider whether you want a valved system (to control noise) or a fixed design. Titanium exhausts are lighter but more expensive. Stainless steel is durable and affordable. Brands like Soul Performance, Fabspeed, and AWE Tuning offer systems engineered specifically for the 718.

Intake and Tuning

A cold-air intake can increase airflow to the turbochargers, potentially providing a modest horsepower bump (10-15 hp) along with improved intake sound. Closed-box intakes help maintain lower intake temperatures, while open-element intakes offer more induction noise but may draw hot air from the engine bay. Pair an intake with a performance tune for the best results.

Engine control unit (ECU) tuning unlocks more power from the turbocharged flat-four. Stage 1 tunes typically add 50-70 hp on pump gas by adjusting boost, timing, and fueling. Stage 2 adds modifications like a downpipe and intercooler for even larger gains. Tuning requires a reputable shop or a plug-and-play device from companies like Cobb Tuning or APR. Keep in mind that tuning may void the engine warranty, so check with your dealer first.

Suspension and Chassis

Upgrading the suspension transforms the Cayman’s handling. Coilover kits allow adjustable ride height, spring rates, and damping. For street driving, a set of sport springs paired with upgraded shocks is a cost-effective improvement. Track-focused drivers may prefer three-way adjustable coilovers for fine-tuning. Brands like KW, Ohlins, and Bilstein are well-regarded.

Sway bars (anti-roll bars) reduce body roll, improving cornering response. Adjustable sway bars let you tune oversteer or understeer. Pair them with monoball bushings for more precise steering feel. Be aware that stiffer suspension can make daily driving rougher, so choose based on your primary use.

Brakes

If you track your 718, upgrading brakes is essential. Performance brake pads with a higher friction coefficient resist fade. Slotted or drilled rotors improve heat dissipation, though drilled rotors are more prone to cracking under hard use (slotted are generally preferred). Stainless steel brake lines provide a firmer pedal feel. For major track work, consider a big brake kit (BBK) with larger calipers and rotors. Companies like Brembo, StopTech, and AP Racing offer direct-fit options for the 718.

Wheels and Tires

Lighter wheels reduce unsprung weight, improving acceleration, braking, and handling. Flow-formed or forged wheels are ideal. Common fitments include 19- and 20-inch diameters. Wider wheels allow wider tires for more grip. However, consider offset and clearance; running too aggressive of a setup may rub or require fender rolling. Tire choice is critical—summer performance tires like Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or track tires like the Cup 2 are popular. Always match tire width to wheel width for optimal performance.

Aesthetic Mods

Visual upgrades can enhance the 718’s looks without affecting performance. Front lip spoilers, side skirts, rear diffusers, and spoiler extensions are common. Carbon fiber parts reduce weight and add a motorsport appearance. Keep in mind that some aerodynamic add-ons may produce drag or downforce changes—choose ones that suit your driving needs (e.g., a rear wing for track downforce). Interior mods like custom steering wheels, shift knobs, or aluminum pedals are also popular.

Factors to Consider When Shopping

• Budget: Aftermarket parts vary widely in price. Set a budget and prioritize modifications that align with your driving goals.
• Warranty: Modifications can void parts of the factory warranty. Check with your dealer. Some dealers offer performance parts with warranty coverage.
• Installation: Some parts are DIY-friendly (intakes, exhaust tips), while others require professional installation (suspension, tuning). Factor in labor costs.
• Emissions Compliance: Aftermarket exhausts and tunes must comply with local emissions laws. Some states (California) have strict smog checks. Look for CARB-compliant parts if needed.
• Future Goals: Plan a build path to avoid buying parts twice. For example, if you plan to turbo upgrade later, choose an exhaust that supports higher flow.

Top Brands (Examples)

While there are many manufacturers, certain brands are known for quality and fitment with the 718 Cayman:

• Exhaust: Soul Performance, Fabspeed, AWE Tuning, Borla
• Intake: Eventuri, BMC, AFE Power
• Tuning: Cobb Tuning, APR, Softronic
• Suspension: KW, Ohlins, H&R, Bilstein
• Brakes: Brembo, StopTech, AP Racing
• Wheels: BBS, HRE, OZ Racing, Forgeline
• Aero: Vorsteiner, Techart, PTS Research each brand’s reputation and look for owner feedback on forums like Rennlist.

Installation Tips

• Exhaust: Allow the car to cool. PB Blaster on bolts helps. Holding the muffler weight can be tricky; use a jack or helper.
• Intake: Follow instructions precisely to avoid MAF sensor contamination. Clean hands and workspace.
• Tuning: Use a battery tender during flashing. Ensure the tune is for your car’s exact model and ECU version.
• Suspension: Get an alignment after lowering. Replace bump stops if needed.
• Brakes: Bed-in pads and rotors properly after installation.

Practical Final Recommendation

For a balanced 718 Cayman that excels on both street and track, focus on three key areas first: a cat-back exhaust for sound and weight savings, a cold-air intake paired with an ECU tune for meaningful power gains, and a set of coilovers or sport springs to lower and tighten the handling. This combination transforms the driving experience without going overboard. Always consult with a specialized Porsche shop for installation and tuning. Start with one modification at a time to understand how each change affects the car’s behavior. Whether you’re after subtle refinement or aggressive performance, the aftermarket offers plenty of options to make your 718 Cayman truly yours.