Thirty years ago, the Boxster concept car was presented. Today, Porsche is launching the new 718 Spyder RS, the most powerful iteration yet of the iconic mid-engined roadster, proving that that car will never go out of style. It will feature the high-revving naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine of the 911 GT3. That engine will be deployed in an open-topped mid-engined sports car for the first time ever.
Engine, Transmission, and Lightweight Construction
If you want power, the new 718 Spyder RS will definitely give you that. It has a powertrain identical to the 718 Cayman GT4. The six-cylinder boxer engine revs up to 9,000 rpm and generates an output of 368 kW and a maximum torque of 450 Newton meters.
The new model not only has a dynamic engine but a lighter weight (1,410 kilograms), contributing to a better performance. In addition to that, it has a short-ratio seven-speed PDK transmission, allowing this sportscar to shoot through 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. It hits the 200-km/h mark in just 10.9 seconds.
Compared to RS-less 718 Spyder, the fresh range-topper greatly benefits from the additional 59 kW and accelerates to 100 km/h half a second faster. Currently, the top speed is 308 km/h.
The 718 Spyder RS comes exclusively with the Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK), as is every modern RS model. You can shift through the seven gears in a flash, guaranteeing maximum performance. More than that, the gearshift paddles let you keep your hands on the wheel even when shifting manually. You can also take advantage of the ergonomically designed lever on the center console.
Aesthetics and Aerodynamics
On top of its engine, the 718 Spyder RS boasts a really cool design and balanced aerodynamics.
The Soft-Top: A Purist’s Dream
It comes with a manually operated single-layer lightweight soft-top, a compact design that consists of a suntail and weather deflector. Those two components are entirely removable and can be stored in the car. When used together, they effectively protect you and your passengers from various weather conditions.
Front End Aerodynamics: Balanced
When it comes to the front end, it looks identical to that of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The front bonnet is made of CFRP and has a wide air outlet. The two NACA ducts make brake cooling a breeze without affecting the Cd value.
Plus, the sideblades on the bumper increase downforce. And with a slightly shorter spoiler lip and a larger rear wing, the 718 SPyder RS produces a higher overall downforce.
Sports Suspension: Precise and Agile
The chassis of the 718 Spyder RS is designed for optimum driving pleasure on winding roads. It consists of components from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and 718 Spyder.
Also coming in standard are the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with sports tuning and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV). The chassis’ behaviors can be distinguished by the precision from the razor-sharp steering and agile and neutral handling.
Looking at the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the 718 Spyder RS spring and damper rates are reduced, giving you a more relaxed and characteristically convertible-style car.
Overall, the new 718 Spyder RS is a great car that takes inspiration (and parts) from the other great Porsche models. With its powerful engine, sleek but sporty style, and tremendous capabilities, this car will be one that is sought-after by many Porsche and driving enthusiasts.