Formula Drift Champ Is Making This 718 Cayman a Drifting Machine

In Progress

Those who are into Formula Drift or just the automotive enthusiast world in general are likely familiar with Chelsea DeNofa, the reigning champion in that series and an all-around car guy. Of course, like most of us, DeNofa likes to play around with cool cars in his spare time as well - this isn't just a job, after all - and now, he's got a pretty unique one taking shape at the moment - a drift-ready Porsche 718 Cayman - and he's documenting the build process on his YouTube channel. 

Unusual Choice

It goes without saying that the Cayman isn't exactly the first choice that comes to mind when one thinks of a possible drift build. Typically, folks who enjoy that type of activity go for rear-wheel-drive, V8-powered machines, but there are also plenty of high-powered six-cylinder Japanese machines present on that circuit as well. 

Choice Upgrades

Regardless, the Cayman certainly seems like it's more than capable of making a great drift car, particularly after it has been treated to a bevy of modifications here. In fact, DeNofa left the rear suspension geometry alone, merely opting to install adjustable arms and heim joints for those specific purposes. 

More Power

A beefier clutch was obviously in order given the type of abuse it'll be subjected to, and DeNofa also welded the rear differential. Interestingly, this particular Cayman is a four-cylinder example - not a flat-six - and it's already churning out more power than stock at around 400. However, DeNofa plans on giving it a new turbo and some other upgrades to get closer to 600.

Safety First

Inside the cabin, it's all about safety, as one would imagine, as this Cayman has been fitted with a roll cage, racing seats, harnesses, and a quick-disconnect steering wheel, coupled with a hydraulic hand brake for obvious reasons - getting sideways, of course. 

Playing Nice

One of the biggest tasks was making the car's factory electronics play nice with all of these modifications, but ultimately, that mission was accomplished as well. There's still much work to be done, however - chiefly, giving this Porsche a bunch of cooling upgrades to make it viable for hard drift sessions.

Outside the Box

Regardless, things are moving along nicely, and this drifting Cayman is already looking like it'll be more than competent at getting sideways. Drifting obviously isn't for everyone - in fact, lots of people like to hate on that sport in general - but in this case, we just think it's cool that someone is doing something a bit outside of the box. 

>>Join the conversation about this Cayman drift build right here at Rennlist.com.

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