Today, May 10, 2023, Porsche has unveiled the highly anticipated 718 Spyder RS.
Here’s a summary of what we know so far.

Porsche 718 Spyder RS: The Perfect Blend of Open-Air Thrill and Performance

The most powerful version of Porsche’s 718 lineup, the 718 Spyder RS, can be described as the open-top counterpart to the 718 GT4.

• A high-revving naturally aspirated engine borrowed from the Porsche 911 GT3
• The open-top version of the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS
• Lightweight manual soft-top roof, fully removable
• Standard stainless steel sports exhaust system and distinctive air intakes
• Price for the Japanese market: 20,240,000 yen

Undoubtedly, the most captivating feature is that it’s an open-top car powered by the GT3 engine.
In Porsche’s history, the only other open car with a GT3 engine was the 991 Speedster, making this model a rare and exciting return.

I’ve heard the 991 Speedster’s engine sound many times, and its tone is incredibly beautiful—still my favorite Porsche sound to date. I’m eagerly looking forward to hearing a sound that might rival it this time as well.

Engine: Powerful 4.0-Liter Flat-Six

Key specs of the 718 Spyder RS are as follows:

• 6-cylinder boxer engine, 4.0 liters displacement, maximum output 368 kW (500 PS), peak torque 450 Nm
• 7-speed PDK transmission only
• 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.9 seconds, top speed 308 km/h
• Weight: 1410 kg

This is essentially the GT3 engine transplanted directly into the car.The GT3 engine is literally the same as the one used in the GT3 CUP racing car, so it’s in a league far above typical tuned sports car engines. Once you experience its 9000 rpm roar, you’ll be captivated.

This time, the engine is paired with the PDK transmission. A manual gearbox will not be offered.

Personally, I think this is the right choice. Having owned a GT3 Touring (MT), I understand well that while manual driving is enjoyable, even the most skilled drivers cannot fully unleash the performance of this modern, ultra-high-performance GT3 engine. Therefore, to fully savor the GT3 engine’s capabilities, PDK is the optimal choice.

Weight and Balance: Lighter Than the Coupe, Perfectly Balanced

This car shares a very similar front end with the GT4 RS but features a different front wing to maintain aerodynamic balance.

Also, since it lacks the rear spoiler found on the GT4, it uses a different front lip and many underbody improvements to properly balance the car’s downforce. Carbon fiber parts for weight reduction are found throughout, including the hood and front fenders.

In terms of curb weight, the lightest 718 Spyder RS weighs 1410 kg, which is lighter than the GT4 RS.

Furthermore, the 718 Spyder RS suspension is tuned with the latest dampers to be slightly softer than the GT4 RS, aimed at drivers who primarily enjoy winding mountain roads and backcountry routes.

This might well be described as the open-top GT3 perfect for early morning weekend drives and touring.

Latest Technology: Aerodynamics, Dampers, and Lightweight Roof

The car features a large ducktail spoiler that provides significant aerodynamic benefits.

Combined with front-end improvements, it achieves a completely neutral aerodynamic state at high speeds with no lift despite being an open car. It’s rare to find an open car with such excellent aerodynamics, making this quite impressive.

The 718 Spyder RS suspension is lowered by 30 mm compared to the standard 718 to achieve a lower center of gravity, and features ball-joint steering for more precise steering feedback and improved handling.

Additionally, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) is standard, along with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. Magnesium wheels are available as an option, and for those seeking further weight reduction, the Weissach Package is offered.

The 718 Spyder RS’s roof is strictly for emergencies. It’s designed to be installed manually in about two minutes in case of rain or strong sunlight. The roof weighs 16 kg less than the Boxster’s top and is fully removable.

Distinctive Air Intakes and Design

The air intakes that drew attention when the GT4 RS was announced also appear on the Spyder RS.
Located just behind the driver and passenger seats, they emphasize the engine sound. This is intended to provide an acoustic effect for the driver. Unlike the GT4 RS, the open body means it will be exciting to hear how the intake and engine sounds come through.

That covers the information on the 718 Spyder RS.
Although it’s not a limited edition, it will likely be a model that’s very hard to get. Assuming it will be difficult to purchase, I plan to join the reservation list myself. As the final true flagship of the gasoline-powered 718 lineup, it’s sure to be very popular.