The long-awaited, next generation Spyder and Cayman GT4 have been revealed and Porsche purists will be relieved to read that at the heart of both models a newly-developed, four-litre six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine awaits. The new high-revving, 420 PS power unit is based on the same engine family as the current 911 Carrera and generates an additional 45 PS over the 981 Spyder and 35 PS over the predecessor GT4 model.
Each car features a six-speed manual transmission for optimal driver engagement and where possible, offer a top speed of 187 mph and complete 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds from a standing start.
Among the striking features of the 718 Cayman GT4 is the comprehensively improved aerodynamic design. The car produces up to 50 per cent more downforce, without adversely affecting aerodynamic resistance, or ‘drag’. The aerodynamics of both models benefit enormously from the newly designed single-chamber arch rear silencer. This creates space in the rear underbody for a functional diffuser, which accounts for 30 per cent of the downforce acting on the rear of the 718 Cayman GT4.
The fixed rear wing of the GT4 also produces around 20 per cent more downforce compared with that of its predecessor creating an additional 12kilograms of downforce at 124 mph. The front section, which is further optimised in the GT style, maintains the overall aerodynamic balance of the car courtesy of a large front spoiler lip and so-called air curtains at the side which calm the air flow across the front wheels.
The new 718 Spyder is a pure machine dedicated to driving pleasure and continues the history of such famous Roadsters as the Porsche 550 Spyder and the 718 RS 60 Spyder. The roof is suitable for everyday use and can be stowed away under the boot lid in just a few steps. Unlike the GT4, the 718 Spyder has a rear spoiler that is raised automatically at 74 mph. Thanks to the aforementioned functional diffuser, it is the first model in the Boxster family to generate aerodynamic downforce on the rear axle.
For the first time ever, the 718 Spyder benefits from the high-performance GT chassis of the 718 Cayman GT4. With its superior cornering dynamics, it provides an intense and engaging driving experience. Refinements to the lightweight spring-strut front and rear axles make use of motor sport-bred technologies, including ball jointed suspension links.
The chassis is specifically designed for use on the race track and the special features deliver sharper handling characteristics for the 718 Cayman GT4 which can also be specified with a Clubsport package which includes a rear steel roll cage, a hand-held fire extinguisher and a six-point seatbelt on the driver’s side.
The new Porsche 718 Spyder and the 718 Cayman GT4 are available to order from today at Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland. Prices start at £73,405.00 RRP for the 718 Spyder and £75,348.00 RRP for the 718 Cayman GT4.