Porsche is introducing the most powerful version of the popular Boxster concept car, the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS, thirty years after its initial presentation. This mid-engined roadster boasts the deployment of the high-revving naturally aspirated engine from the 911 GT3, marking the first time such an engine is used in an open-topped mid-engined sports car.

Porsche has now completed its 718 mid-engined model line with the introduction of a thrilling sports car designed to provide maximum driving pleasure: the new 718 Spyder RS, the convertible counterpart to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. Featuring the impressive 368 kW (500 PS) naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine from the 911 GT3, this open-top mid-engined sports car delivers exceptional performance. The same lightweight power unit is found in the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing car and is renowned for its high-revving design. Adding to the exhilaration, the 718 Spyder RS is equipped with a lightweight and purist-pleasing manual soft-top roof that enhances the captivating sound of the engine. The standard lightweight stainless steel sports exhaust system and distinct process air inlets on the sides behind the headrests further intensify the driving experience.

The new 718 Spyder RS shares its powertrain with the 718 Cayman GT4 RS coupe. Its 4.0-liter six-cylinder boxer engine can rev up to an impressive 9,000 rpm and generates an output of 368 kW (500 PS) with a maximum torque of 450 Newton meters. Paired with a short-ratio seven-speed PDK transmission, this engine propels the two-seater roadster from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. It reaches 200 km/h in a mere 10.9 seconds. Compared to the regular 718 Spyder, the new range-topping RS variant benefits from an additional 59 kW (80 PS) of power and accelerates to 100 km/h half a second faster. Its top speed is now 308 km/h, up from 300 km/h. Similar to other modern RS models, the 718 Spyder RS is exclusively available with the Porsche dual clutch transmission (PDK), which enables lightning-fast gear shifts for maximum performance. Drivers can conveniently shift gears manually using the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel or the ergonomically designed selector lever on the center console. Apart from the more powerful engine, the lower weight of the new model also contributes to its improved performance. Weighing only 1,410 kilograms, the Spyder RS is 40 kg lighter than the 718 Spyder with PDK and even five kilograms lighter than the closed 718 Cayman GT4 RS. It represents the pinnacle of the model line that started in 2016.

Balanced aerodynamics:
The front end of the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS closely resembles that of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The standard front bonnet, made of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), features a wide air outlet above the bumper. Two NACA ducts aid in brake cooling without negatively affecting the car’s aerodynamic coefficient (Cd value). Sideblades positioned on the outer ends of the bumper enhance downforce, while the front spoiler lip, slightly shorter than that of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, works together with the large rear wing to generate overall higher downforce on the Cayman, necessitating a larger spoiler lip for aerodynamic balance. Instead of a wing, the 718 Spyder RS boasts a distinctive tear-off edge resembling a ducktail. These aerodynamic components are meticulously coordinated to maintain the car’s balance and ensure optimal driving stability at high speeds.

Purist Soft-Top Design:
The new Porsche 718 Spyder RS features a minimalist soft-top design that adds to its allure. The manually operated single-layer lightweight soft-top consists of two parts: a sun sail and a weather deflector. Both components can be easily removed and stored either together or separately in the vehicle. The sun sail can also serve as a “Bimini top,” providing protection from intense sunlight while keeping the passenger compartment open to the side and rear. When combined with the weather deflector, the soft-top forms a complete roof that effectively shields against rain when the side windows are raised. Impressively, the entire roof, including mechanical parts, weighs just 18.3 kg, making it 7.6 kg lighter than the 718 Spyder and 16.5 kg lighter than the 718 Boxster. For drivers looking to reduce the weight further, they have the option to leave the top at home if the weather permits.

High-Precision Sports Suspension:
The chassis of the 718 Spyder RS takes inspiration from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and the 718 Spyder, delivering exceptional driving pleasure on twisty roads. Equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with sports tuning, the suspension has been lowered by 30 millimeters for a more aggressive stance. Additionally, it features Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical limited-slip differential, ball-jointed suspension bearings, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. The chassis offers razor-sharp steering precision, agile and neutral handling, and adjustable ride height, camber, track, and anti-roll bar settings. Compared to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the spring and damper rates have been adjusted to provide a more relaxed and characteristic convertible-style setup.

Performance-Focused Interior:
The interior of the 718 Spyder RS reflects its sporty character and prioritizes functionality and ergonomics. The RS sports steering wheel, covered with Race-Tex material, features a yellow 12-o’clock marking. The standard full bucket seats are made of lightweight carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) with a carbon-weave finish, ensuring exceptional lateral support. The seat covers are crafted from black leather, while the perforated Race-Tex seat center showcases a contrasting color against a black background, available in Arctic Grey or Carmine Red. The headrests are embroidered with the “Spyder RS” logo in the corresponding color. Leather covers the dashboard and trims, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The exterior color options include four plain and three metallic paints, such as the new Vanadium Grey Metallic, Arctic Grey, Shark Blue, and Ruby Star Neo.

Optional Weissach Package and Matching Chronograph:
For those seeking even more performance, the Spyder RS offers an optional Weissach Package. This package includes exceptionally lightweight forged magnesium wheels and titanium sports exhaust system tailpipes inspired by the limited-edition 935 from 2018. Inside the car, the upper part of the dashboard is covered with anti-glare Race-Tex material, adding a visual highlight. Exclusive to buyers of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is a handcrafted chronograph from Porsche Design Timepieces. This premium-quality watch, made in Porsche’s in-house watchmaking operation in Solothurn, Switzerland, is meticulously crafted to match the car’s configuration. The chronograph features a lightweight titanium case, a carbon dial, and a vehicle leather strap. The rotor on the back of the watch pays homage to the respective wheel rim design on the 718 Spyder RS.