Porsche’s New 718 Spyder RS Is A GT3-Powered Drop-Top Hot-Rod

Porsche has unveiled its latest high-performance vehicle, the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS, as a sibling to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS.

Equipped with a 4.0-liter flat-six engine generating 493 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, Porsche Active Suspension Management, and a GT3 Touring-inspired interior, the 718 Spyder RS is scheduled to be delivered in spring 2024.

As Porsche prepares for the arrival of an electric 718 chassis, it is emphasizing its ability to create an exceptionally engaging internal combustion engine (ICE) hot rod, priced at $162,150.

The current generation Boxster and Cayman models, which utilize the 718 chassis, are already outstanding vehicles. With their mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a choice of flat-four and flat-six cylinder powertrains, the 718-chassis cars are now genuine rivals to their 911 counterparts.

While this internal competition may pose a challenge in terms of model hierarchy at times, Porsche’s executives are unlikely to lose sleep over having two exceptional chassis in production.

In fact, it seems that Porsche executives have taken note of the success of the Cayman GT4 RS and have announced the introduction of the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS. Acting as an internal parts-bin hot rod, this addition to the 718 RS lineup is focused on delivering a thrilling driving experience.

Taking inspiration from the 4.0-liter flat-six engine found in the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing car, the new 718 Spyder RS boasts an impressive output of 493 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled through a short-ratio 7-speed PDK transmission, allowing the model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds (0.5 seconds faster than the previous 718 Spyder) and achieve a top speed of 191 mph. However, as with all Porsches, the 718 Spyder RS prioritizes handling prowess over straight-line speed. It comes equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and features a 1.1-inch suspension drop.

Standard features include active torque vectoring, ball-joint type suspension bearings, and a mechanical limited-slip differential. The ride height, toe, camber, and anti-roll bars are all adjustable, although the damper and spring rates have been adjusted to match the characteristics of a convertible.

With its close relationship to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the 718 Spyder RS shares a nearly identical front end, featuring a standard front lid designed to optimize airflow and two NACA ducts for enhanced brake cooling. However, the front lip on the Spyder RS differs from that on the Cayman counterpart to meet additional downforce requirements. Additionally, the convertible version of the car will feature a rear ducktail spoiler instead of a traditional wing.

Remaining true to its lightweight origins, the 718 Spyder RS comes with a two-part manually operated soft top. The first part serves as an outer weather protector, while the second part functions as a sun shield that can be used independently. Overall, the top weighs less than 40 pounds, resulting in a weight reduction of 36 pounds compared to the traditional Boxster model. Inside the car, you’ll find a pair of lightweight carbon-weave bucket seats and a Race-Tex-covered GT Sport steering wheel with a yellow 12 o’clock mark. The interior color scheme of the 718 Spyder RS focuses on Arctic Grey, Carmine Red, and black accents, with leather being the primary material throughout the cabin.

The 718 Spyder RS will be available in four standard exterior colors, with additional metallic paint options, including the new Vanadium Grey Metallic, and a few special colors including Arctic Grey, Shark Blue, and Ruby Star Neo.

For those interested in personalizing their 718 Spyder RS, Porsche will offer the Weissach Package, which introduces forged magnesium wheels and titanium exhaust tips. This package also includes some minor weight reduction features such as an exposed carbon-fiber hood, carbon-fiber combustion air scoops, and a carbon-fiber Gurney flap on the rear spoiler.

The base price for the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS, without the extravagant package, will be $162,150, which includes a delivery fee of $1,450. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in spring 2024. However, the car will make its public debut in June at the 75 Years of Porsche ceremony in Stuttgart and later at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.