When the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS debuted late in 2021, it did so as an almost ideal GT car. It’s compact, lightweight, and with the 911 GT3’s engine bolted to its back, it produces 493 horsepower while revving to 9,000 rpm. Today, that recipe gets even spicier with the arrival of the 2024 Porsche Spyder RS. It’s essentially a GT4 RS with a manual soft top roof, preserving its track-focused nature but adds to the experience by allowing its passengers to engage with its naturally-aspirated engine even further.
Quick Specs
| Engine | 4.0-Liter Flat-Six |
| Output | 493 Horsepower / 331 Pound-Feet |
| Transmission | Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.2 Seconds |
| Base Price | $162,150 (Including a $1,450 Destination Fee) |
From a styling perspective, the Spyder RS is nearly identical to the GT4 RS, with a few exceptions. Its front end, for example, still features a carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic hood, twin NACA ducts, and sizable lower intakes. However, its front splitter is slightly shorter because it doesn’t have a massive rear wing. The Cayman needs the added downforce upfront to retain its aerodynamic balance. Out back, the Spyder RS sports a ducktail spoiler with optional carbon-fiber trim on its top edge.
The most significant visual difference between the GT4 RS and this latest variant is the inclusion of a manual soft top. It comprises two parts that can be folded and stored in a designated area within the car. By not installing a folding mechanism, the RS saves 16 pounds, with its roof weighing just 40 lb altogether. That makes it 36 lb lighter than the soft top found in a base 718 Boxster.
While these weight-savings seem minor, they add up to a car that is 59 lb lighter than a non-RS Spyder, which was already light with its 3,205-lb curb weight.
The 4.0-liter flat-six that powers the 2024 Porsche Spyder RS develops 493 hp and 331 pound-feet of torque, identical to its GT4 RS sibling. Power still goes only to the rear wheels via a seven-speed PDK, with no manual option. Still, Porsche’s quick-shifting transmission allows the RS to sprint to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, topping out at 191 mph. Compared to the non-RS 718 Spyder, this new variant develops an extra 79 hp and is 0.5 seconds quicker to 60 mph.
On the suspension front, the Spyder RS comes standard with Porsche Active Suspension Management and Porsche Torque Vectoring. Its ride height is lower by 1.2 inches (30 mm) but retains softer spring and damper rates than the GT4 RS for a more comfortable ride on the street. An optional front axle lift system can raise its nose by 1.1 in at speeds of up to 37 mph. Its height, toe, camber, and anti-roll bars remain adjustable, and it still sports a limited-slip differential out back.
While the Spyder RS comes standard with 20-in forged alloy wheels, a magnesium set is available by selecting the optional Weissach Package. Also included are titanium exhaust tips, exposed carbon fiber components like its hood, side air vents, and rear spoiler lip. Inside, the interior gets a Race-Tex-covered dashboard and embroidered headrests with the “Weissach RS” script.
Latest Porsche News:
Porsche expects the Spyder RS to start reaching U.S. dealerships in Spring 2024. However, the car will make its first public appearance in June during the carmaker’s 75th-anniversary celebrations. The brand’s latest track-focused sports car carries a base price of $162,150, including a $1,450 destination fee.
Sources: Porsche