2025 Porsche 718 Cayman vs. 2025 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

Performance cars often highlight the personality of their origins, and few comparisons illustrate this better than the 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman and the 2025 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350. One draws its strength from balance, mid-engine precision, and engineering refinement, while the other thrives on raw muscle, massive horsepower, and track-focused aggression. Both are modern sports icons, yet they cater to very different enthusiasts.

Design & Style

Porsche's 718 Cayman keeps its familiar mid-engine proportions but updates them with subtle refinements that underscore its focus on handling and aerodynamics. Sleek curves, sharp detailing, and trims that scale from minimalist sportiness to GT4 RS aggressiveness highlight a design philosophy that values timelessness and function together. Inside, the cabin favors a purposeful driver layout, with supportive sport seats and intuitive ergonomics.

Shelby GT350 stands on the opposite end of the spectrum with bold lines, wide fenders, and an unmistakable Shelby presence. Its exterior signals raw intent, enhanced by functional aero elements and a commanding grille. The interior reflects its performance-first nature, giving drivers supportive seating, visible Shelby badging, and enough comfort for daily use without taking away from its track-ready character.

Technology & Safety

A modernized digital experience defines the Cayman with its clear driver interface, a 7-inch infotainment screen, and seamless Apple CarPlay integration. Options such as PASM adaptive suspension and carbon-ceramic brakes add layers of track-worthy innovation, while advanced safety assists like lane-keeping and collision alerts reinforce its practicality for everyday use.

Shelby takes a more straightforward approach, where technology plays a supporting role to performance upgrades. A digital cluster and high-quality audio system are available, but most attention goes to mechanical improvements like reinforced suspension and Shelby/Borla exhaust enhancements. Safety remains basic but functional, relying on stability programs and braking strength rather than a suite of driver-assist features.

Performance

Engine choices in the 718 Cayman set a clear gradient for enthusiasts. Starting with a turbocharged flat-four producing 300 horsepower, drivers can step up to the naturally aspirated flat-six in the GTS 4.0 or experience the GT4 RS with nearly 500 horsepower. Each model shines through balance, agility, and lightning-fast cornering response, with 0-60 mph figures ranging from 4.7 seconds to just above 3 seconds.

Shelby GT350 makes its case with brute power. A supercharged 5.0-liter V8 pushes out 810 horsepower in the standard version, while the GT350R unleashes over 830 horsepower. Transmission options include both manual and automatic, each delivering a classic muscle car feel. Straight-line acceleration and thunderous exhaust notes define the experience, while track versions with carbon fiber parts and upgraded suspension target serious racers.

The Bottom Line

Drivers looking for finesse, precision, and confidence on winding roads will find the 718 Cayman a natural fit. Its mid-engine layout, refined interior, and range of trims create a sports car that adapts to both spirited drives and track demands.

Those who seek overwhelming power, bold styling, and a visceral connection to American performance will lean toward the Shelby GT350. Its exclusivity, particularly with the limited-run GT350R, makes it a collector's highlight. Deciding between them depends less on numbers and more on whether finesse or force defines your idea of a sports car.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

Experiencing a sports car is about more than reading numbers-it's about feeling the drive. At Porsche Norwell, we invite you to test the 2025 718 Cayman and explore what makes it a true driver's car. Our team will guide you through trims, performance features, and customization options that match your driving passion.

Alongside vehicle sales, we provide factory-trained service, genuine Porsche parts, and concierge-style test drive scheduling to give our clients a seamless experience. Contact us today to arrange your test drive with us and discover the difference firsthand.