The cabin of the Porsche Cayman declares high performance. If the upside-down bathtub profile is long gone, the Porsche instrument panel retains its classic look. And why not? Exterior styling and aerodynamics are one thing, but instrument panels are more about visual efficiency, and the general idea that worked in 1957 still works in 2007. Not just the instruments, because technology has changed them, but the overall feel, including the seating position relative to the steering wheel. Through the windscreen, the shapely bulge over the left front fender on the driver's side further reminds you that you're behind the wheel of a Porsche.

The big 8000-rpm tachometer, using black numbers on a pleasing gray face, is in the center where it's easy to see; and the other instruments are also well placed, thus giving up their information easily. The quality of all the materials is evident.

Unlike many sports cars, the Cayman offers cabin and storage space. There's a big shelf behind the leather seats, which are surprisingly non-racy looking, but which hold your torso in a snug and comfortable grip. This shelf serves as the engine cover, and supports storage bins at each end. The glovebox is relatively big, and contains two outward-swinging cupholders that can hold huge drinks. The console has two more storage compartments, an open one forward and a covered space containing a coin holder and 12-volt power outlet at the rear. The doors, also, have covered pockets.

There are two luggage compartments, one under the front hood and another under the lightweight rear hatch, behind the engine; together they offer 14.5 cubic feet of space, as much luggage space as some small sedans.

Visibility forward is good, but not so good that you forget you're in a low-slung sports car. Unfortunately, there's a huge blind spot over the driver's right shoulder, thanks to that lovely roofline, so be careful when pulling onto a highway at an angle.