Thirty years after the presentation of the Boxster concept car, Porsche is launching the most powerful version yet of the popular mid-engined roadster: the new 718 Spyder RS, the open-top counterpart to the Cayman GT4 RS.
It’s the first time the 368kW naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer from the 911 GT3 has featured in such a vehicle, and the purist-pleasing manual soft-top roof of the 718 Spyder RS makes the highly evocative sound of the engine an even more compelling experience.
The effect is further heightened by the lightweight stainless steel sports exhaust and distinctive air inlets on the sides, behind the headrests. That noise comes from a 4.0-litre motor, pushing out 450Nm of torque through a short-ratio seven-speed PDK transmission.
That translates to a sprint to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds. On its way there, the gearbox shifts through its seven gears at lightning speed, either via the lever on the centre console, or through the paddles on the steering wheel.
Tipping the scales at 1,410kg, performance is scintillating. A carbon-fibre reinforced plastic bonnet reduces weight and enhance performances. Two NACA air inlet ducts enhance brake cooling, while side blades on the outer ends of the bumper increase downforce.
The 718 Spyder RS also features a striking tear-off edge shaped like a ducktail (instead of a big rear wing), with all aerodynamic components intricately coordinated to maintain the car’s aerodynamic balance and ensure maximum driving stability at high speeds.
The car’s new soft-top is compact and consists of two parts, a sun sail and a weather deflector. Both are completely removable and can be stowed in the vehicle. The sun sail alone can also be used as a ‘bimini top’ like on a boat.
With the side windows down, the passenger compartment remains largely open to the side and behind the passengers. Together with the weather deflector, this creates a complete top that provides effective protection against rain when the side windows are raised.
On the road, the focus is on maximum driving pleasure on winding roads. It comes standard with Porsche active suspension management with sports tuning, and has been lowered by 30mm. It also features Porsche torque vectoring.
In addition, you’ll find a mechanical rear differential lock, suspension bearings with ball joints and 20-inch forged aluminium wheels. The complete package works together to provide razor sharp steering, and agile and extremely neutral handling.
The ride height, camber, track and anti-roll bar can all be adjusted individually as well. Inside, it’s just functional and ergonomic essentials. The grippy RS sports steering wheel is covered with Race-Tex and features a yellow 12 o’clock marking.
The standard full bucket seats are made of lightweight CFRP in a carbon-weave finish and offer particularly impressive lateral support. The seat covers are made of black leather, while the perforated Race-Tex seat centre features a contrasting colour.
The contrasting colours are Arctic Grey and Carmine Red. A ‘Spyder RS’ logo in the respective contrasting colour is embroidered on the headrests. The dashboard and trims are covered with leather.
Available exterior colours include four plain and three metallic paints, including the new Vanadium Grey Metallic as well as the special colours Arctic Grey, Shark Blue and Ruby Star Neo. An optional Weissach Package is also available for the Spyder RS.
In Australia, the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS will be additionally equipped with a tyre fit set, windshield with Grey top tint, LED headlights with Porsche dynamic light system, and automatically-dimming mirrors.
It will also come with a rain sensor, cruise control, ParkAssist (rear only) with reversing camera, light design package and digital radio. Both seat heating and BOSE Surround Sound System are available as a no-cost option.
The new Porsche Spyder RS is available to order now, and is priced from $336,800 plus on-roads. Deliveries expected to commence from Q2 2024. If you’re keen on one and need finance, talk to CreditOne.
