Porsche 718 Spyder RS

May 15, 2023

Porsche is releasing the most powerful iteration of the well-known mid-engined roadster yet: the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS, thirty years after the Boxster concept vehicle was shown. The high-revving, naturally aspirated 911 GT3 engine is used for the first time in an open-topped, mid-engined sports vehicle.

The new 718 Spyder RS is the open-top equivalent of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, and Porsche caps the 718 mid-engined model range with this sports vehicle. The 368 kW (500 PS; 718 Spyder RS) is a new record. 911 GT3: Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 12.9 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined (WLTP) 293 g/km, and combined fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 13.0 l/100 km. An open-topped mid-engined sports vehicle with a naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine from the 911 GT3. The same compact, high-revving powertrain powers the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing vehicle. The 718 Spyder RS's very low weight and purist-pleasing manual soft-top cover add to the sensation of the engine's powerfully expressive sound. In addition, the characteristic process air inlets on the sidewalls under the headrests and the standard lightweight stainless steel sports exhaust system enhance the impression.

Image credit: © Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

A naturally aspirated engine with high revs and a build that is steadfastly lightweight

The new 718 Spyder RS's drivetrain is the same as the 718 Cayman GT4 RS coupe's. The six-cylinder boxer engine produces an output of 368 kW (500 PS) and a maximum torque of 450 Newton meters, which has a cylinder displacement of 4.0 liters and a maximum revving speed of 9,000 rpm. The six-cylinder engine propels the two-seater roadster from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with a short-ratio seven-speed PDK gearbox. In only 10.9 seconds, the automobile reaches 200 kilometers per hour. The new range-topper accelerates to 100 km/h half a second quicker than the 718 Spyder without the 'RS' designation and gains 59 kW (80 PS) more power. As a result, the peak speed has increased from 300 km/h to 308 km/h.

Like all current RS models, the Porsche dual-clutch gearbox (PDK) is the only option for the new 718 Spyder RS. This gearbox ensures peak performance with lightning-fast changes across each of its seven speeds. Drivers may keep their hands on the wheel even while manually changing gears, thanks to the gearshift paddles. The driver may also utilize the selecting lever on the center console, which was developed with ergonomics in mind. Along with the more potent engine, the new model's smaller weight also improves performance. At 1,410 kilos, the Spyder RS weighs five kilograms less than the closed 718 Cayman GT4 RS and 40 kilograms less than the 718 Spyder with PDK. The model series began in 2016, and the Spyder RS is the most recent high point.

Aerodynamics in balance

The new Porsche 718 Spyder RS's front and 718 Cayman GT4 RS's front end are almost similar. An oversized air exit is located above the bumper on the CFRP front bonnet, which is standard. The Cd value is not negatively impacted by the two NACA vents, which improve brake cooling. The bumper's sideblades on the ends' outside edges boost downforce. Due to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS's bigger rear wing and somewhat shorter front spoiler lip, the Cayman generates more downforce overall. As a result, the Cayman needs a more extended front spoiler lip to ensure aerodynamic balance. The 718 Spyder RS has an eye-catching tear-off edge with a ducktail-like form in place of a wing. The careful coordination of every aerodynamic component. They provide optimal driving stability at high speeds and preserve the vehicle's aerodynamic balance.

Pure soft-top style

A single-layer, lightweight soft-top that is manually controlled is included with the Porsche 718 Spyder RS. Amazingly simple, the design has two components: a weather deflector and a sun sail. Both may be stored in the car together or separately and are detachable. In addition, the driver and front passenger may be shielded from the sun's glare by using the sun sail alone as a "Bimini top." The passenger compartment, in this instance, is still substantially open to the side and behind the occupants.

When the side windows are lifted, this forms an entire top with the weather deflector that effectively protects against rain. The roof's total weight, including the mechanical components, is just 18.3 kg. That is 16.5 kg and 7.6 kg lighter than the 718 Boxster and Spyder. Weather permitting, drivers who want to remove an extra eight kilos from the vehicle's weight may drive without using the top.

Supremely accurate and agile sports suspension

The 718 Spyder RS's chassis, developed for optimal driving enjoyment on twisting roads, combines parts from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and the 718 Spyder. It has been lowered by 30 millimeters and has Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with a sports tune as standard equipment. Additionally, it has 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, ball-jointed suspension bearings, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical limited-slip differential. The chassis's behavior is characterized by exceptionally nimble and neutral handling and pinpoints steering accuracy. Individual adjustments may be made for the ride height, camber, track, and anti-roll bar. Spring and damper rates have decreased compared to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS to obtain a more laid-back, distinctly convertible setup.

Interior with an emphasis on performance

The automobile's inside has a sporty vibe since just the practical and ergonomic necessities remain. The bright 12-o'clock marker is on the grippy Race-Tex-covered RS sports steering wheel. The primary full bucket seats provide incredible lateral support and are built of lightweight CFRP with a carbon-weave surface. The perforated Race-Tex seat center has a contrasting color against a black backdrop, while the seat coverings are constructed of black leather. Arctic Grey or Carmine Red are the opposing hues.

The headrests have the 'Spyder RS' badge stitched in the matching color. Leather has been used to cover the trim and dashboard. There are four plain and three metallic exterior paint colors available, the exclusive hues Arctic Grey, Shark Blue, and Ruby Star Neo, and the new Vanadium Grey Metallic.

Matching chronograph and optional Weissach Package

As an additional option, the Spyder RS comes with a Weissach Package. Buying this exceptionally performance-oriented equipment package with the lightweight, optional forged magnesium wheels is possible. The titanium tailpipes used in this sports exhaust system are used. The exclusive 935 from 2018 served as an inspiration for the appearance. The top portion of the dashboard's anti-glare Race-Tex covering provides a visual standout within the vehicle. Porsche Design Timepieces handmade chronographs are high-end timepieces produced at Porsche's in-house watchmaking facility in Solothurn, Switzerland, and are only offered to purchasers of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS. The exceptionally thin case, which is made of titanium, the dial, which is made of carbon, and the strap, which is made of automobile leather, are all designed to fit the car's specifications. In addition, the 718 Spyder RS's rear brake rotor mimics the look of the corresponding wheel rim.