Porsche unveils fastest-ever 718 Spyder RS

THIRTY years after the release of its original Boxster concept, Porsche has debuted a thrilling new roadster model dubbed the 718 Spyder RS.

The fastest, and most powerful production series 718 to date, the Spyder RS is said to offer drivers extreme manoeuvrability and agility – thanks in part to a lightened kerb weight of 1410kg – and a 911 GT3-sourced 368kW naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine.

Orders are now open for the $336,800 model which is expected to land locally in the second quarter of 2024. The model will make its public premiere in June as Porsche commemorates 75 years of its sporting cars in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. It will appear again a short time later at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

With an 18.3kg manual folding roof and side mounted intakes, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is primed to deliver the ultimate aural experience to its occupants – a characteristic further amplified by the model’s all stainless-steel exhaust. Porsche says the 4.0-litre flat six offers a rev ceiling of 9000rpm, which is certain to provide an unforgettable soundtrack.

Developing 450Nm, and with a 0-100km/h time of just 3.4 seconds (and a 0-200km/h time of 10.9 seconds), the rear-drive 718 Spyder RS is paired as standard to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission for ultra-fast shifts.

The frontal styling of the special model takes its design cues from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and includes a CFRP (carbon-fibre reinforced plastic) bonnet, wide frontal intake and two NACA ducts to enhance brake cooling.

Side blades on the front bumper’s flanks further increase downforce, while at the rear, the model features a bespoke tear-off edge ducktail spoiler Porsche says is critical to maintaining the car’s aerodynamic balance and stability at high speeds.

The chassis of the 718 Spyder RS uses components sourced from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and 718 Spyder to deliver what Porsche says is “maximum driving pleasure on winding roads”.

It is further equipped (as standard) with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive damping, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) and a 30mm lowered ride height, upgraded suspension bearings and ball joints, a mechanical locking rear differential and lightweight 20-inch forged aluminium wheels.

In keeping with its motorsport pedigree, the model’s ride height, camber, track and anti-roll bar can all be adjusted individually, however Porsche notes that the spring and damper rates are more “relaxed” than those offered in the 718 Cayman GT4 RS…

Paint colours include four standard and three metallic hues including Vanadium Grey, Arctic Grey, Shark Blue, and Ruby Star Neo.

Optionally, the yet-to-be-priced Weissach Package includes forged magnesium wheels, a titanium exhaust system, and dash-top pad in Race-Tex.

Inside, Porsche offers an interior that is “reduced to the functional and ergonomic essentials”.

The Race-Tex clad RS steering wheel features a 12 o’clock marker in yellow, the standard bucket seats are constructed from CFRP, and the seat covers upholstered in black leather with a contrasting Race-Tex centre. To top it off, a Spyder RS logo is emblazoned on the head restraints and the dash-top wrapped in leather.

Locally, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS will be equipped as standard with a tyre fit set, windscreen with grey top tint, LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Lighting System (PDLS), auto-dimming mirrors with rain sensor, cruise control, rear park assist and reversing camera, light design package, and digital radio reception (DAB+).

No-cost options include seat heating and a Bose surround sound system.

All Porsche 718 Spyder RS customers are further invited to purchase a handcrafted watch by Porsche Design, the Swiss-made timepiece constructed of carbon-fibre and titanium with a leather strap.

“The 718 Spyder RS raises driving pleasure to a new level for open-top vehicles,” said Porsche GT Cars director, Andreas Preuninger.

“The combination of our unmistakable GT3 engine, the close-ratio transmission, compact dimensions, low weight, road-optimised racing suspension and maximum openness offers an extremely compelling and unfiltered driving experience.”