Engine and Sound

As expected, the sound of the GT4 RS is quite exhilarating.

The intake sound flowing from the intake located where the rear window would typically be is incredible, clearly conveying the engine’s breathing. Many may not have experienced such a clear intake sound before, myself included, until driving this car.

My 991.1 GTS also features a sound symposer tuned for the GTS, allowing the intake sound to be heard in the cockpit, but this is a much louder version. The sound is more powerful with the windows closed, a common trait.

718 Cayman GT4 RS Intake Duct

The intake duct connects directly to the engine inside the cabin

As the engine revs up, you hear a “Shoo” sound of air flowing, blending with the engine noise inside and the exhaust note outside, creating a very racing-like sound. With the engine closer than in the GT3, you can hear it live inside the cabin, truly a ‘live performance’ of the GT3 engine.

During downshifts, a short intake sound “Shup!” echoes as the engine revs match, creating a unique and thrilling sound.

When you press the accelerator on a straight, the tachometer needle leaps up rapidly. As it approaches 9000rpm, the acceleration intensifies, just like the GT3. While many engines are known for high-revving capabilities, none match the dramatic and accelerating rev rise of the Porsche GT3 engine. It’s truly an exceptional revving experience.

The power is undeniably overwhelming. If anything, the GT4 RS, being mid-engine, doesn’t have the same intense traction as the RR 911, but the face-stretching acceleration is still present. You can expect it to be as you imagined.

Final Thoughts

I’ve often said that the 911 GT3 is a completely different beast from the regular Carrera models, with a significant gap between the top Carrera, the GTS, and the GT3. I still believe this.

However, when it comes to the Cayman GT4 and the GT4 RS, the driving feel is more of an extension of the regular Cayman. The GT4 RS is the pinnacle of the Cayman lineup, but it doesn’t feel as distinct from the regular models as the 911 GT3 does from the Carrera.

Of course, in terms of performance, it’s a different story, but I’m talking about the ‘driving feel’.

Therefore, the GT4 RS seems surprisingly usable. That said, it’s almost like a racing car, so I wouldn’t say it’s suitable for commuting, dates, or long-distance touring. It’s not suited for such purposes. However, it has a broader range of usability (and enjoyment) in everyday scenarios compared to the GT3.

This is due to the engine sound, suspension settings, and gear ratios. With the GT3, you might feel frustrated not being able to rev the engine in the city, but the GT4 RS seems to have less of that issue. You can enjoy the sound at low RPMs, and it’s not extremely low-geared, so stop-and-go traffic isn’t as stressful.

The ride is bumpy on rough roads, but not uncomfortable, and the steering has a moderate mildness.

The owner of this car, who also has experience with other high-performance cars like the GT3, shared their thoughts: “The GT4 RS is easier to use and drive than the GT3. I like it so much that I want to keep it for a long time,” which aligns with my impressions.

This test drive has made me even more fond of the GT4 RS. Personally, I would choose the GT4 RS over the GT3. That’s how much this car captivated me.