The new iterations of the Porsche Cayman GT4 and the Boxster Spyder are here, and they are faster and more powerful. Now called the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder, both models are packed with upgrades and represent the most powerful variants from the 718 range.
The list of improvements begins at their core, a naturally aspirated engine with a six-speed manual transmission. The new four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine works pretty much like the turbo engines in the 911 Carrera models, as they belong to the same engine family. The perfectly balanced mid-engine generates 309 kilowatts, and both the Spyder and GT4 have top speeds of 301 km/h and 304 km/h respectively. This is also the very first time that both models share a lot of technical concepts, including the high-revving engine, a full GT chassis, powerful brakes, and highly efficient aerodynamics.
718 Cayman GT4
A key highlight of this new model is its highly improved aerodynamics, producing 50 percent more downforce without drastically impacting drag. The single-chamber arch rear silencer greatly influences the aerodynamics while also creating space for a functional diffuser in the rear portion. This accounts for 30 percent of the downforce, while the fixed rear wing produces 20 percent more downforce than its earlier version.
718 Spyder
Continuing the legacy of roadsters such as the Porsche 550 Spyder and the 718 RS 60 Spyder, the 718 Spyder is built for pure driving pleasure. With a lightweight convertible top, plush leather interiors, comfortable adaptive sports seats with an 18-way electric adjustment and the option of interior packages in Bordeaux red and black, it’s the epitome of luxury.
It happens to be the first model in the Boxster series to produce aerodynamic downforce at the rear axle with the help of a functional diffuser, and also has a rear spoiler that goes up automatically at 120km/h.
High-performance chassis, brakes and tires
In another first, both the Cayman GT4 and the 718 Spyder come with the same high-performance GT chassis underneath. The chassis gives the 718 Spyder an edge, thanks to its excellent cornering dynamics. Further, the Porsche Active Suspension Management damping system has a lower suspension than the standard ones, making it perfect for the racetrack, while also facilitating sharper handling characteristics in the Cayman GT4. The Porsche Stability Management and Porsche Torque Vectoring operate with greater precision and sensitivity to enhance the overall driving experience.
Both models are equipped with large aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper brakes, with the option of the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB). The 718 Spyder has another new feature – it now runs on the same ultra high performance tyres as the Cayman GT4.
Porsche is offering a Clubsport package on the 718 Cayman GT4, with features such as a rear steel roll bar, hand-held fire extinguisher and a six-point seatbelt on the driver’s side, among others.