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The most powerful version of the Porsche 718 mid-engined sports car has arrived, and it's the Cayman GT4 RS. Like the 911 GT3 RS, the GT4 is the closest you can get to a race car. In fact, it uses the track-oriented 911 GT3 Cup's naturally aspirated flat-six, which can rev to 9,000 rpm.
This engine produces the highest output seen in a 718 so far, at 493 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. This creates a weight-to-power ratio of 6:55 pounds per horsepower. To comply with this engine's great power, air intakes replace the rear side windows, where the air flow can be heard from the passenger area. The intakes positioned on both rear quarter panels, which are present on all Cayman models, have also been revised to meet those needs. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is included on all GT4 RS models, and it can shift at "lightning speed." Shift paddles on the steering wheel allow the driver to shift gears fast without taking a hand off the wheel. An old-fashioned gear shift remains on the center console, and has been redesigned exclusively for the GT4 RS version. The quicker-shifting gearbox bolsters this car's acceleration to a 3.2-second 0-60 time. It also helps boost the top speed to 196 miles per hour on the seventh gear.
The Cayman GT4 RS adopts the 911 GT3's fixed rear wing with swan neck mounts, and is the first 718 model to feature it. This new rear wing works with the front wheel well ventilation, adjustable front diffuser, new front spoiler lip with side blades, and lower ride height to create 25% more downforce than the lesser Cayman GT4 when in track-exclusive Performance mode. The GT4 RS's underbody was designed primarily for aerodynamics, and is accompanied by a wide rear diffuser. The tweaked suspension system is connected to the body by ball joints, and improve responsiveness. The damper setup is exclusive to RS models, and upgraded springs and anti-roll bars further contribute to the Cayman GT4 RS's focus on the racetrack. As for the wheels, new 20-inch forged aluminum rims with center locks are a first with the 718 Cayman.
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS is focused on being lightweight, and has a U.S. curb weight of 3,227 pounds. The hood, as well as the front fenders, are constructed of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Additionally, the door panels feature fabric opening loops, the rear windshield is made of lightweight glass, and the storage compartments have been reduced to nets. There is an available Weissach Package that brings the GT4 RS's performance and looks to another level. With this option, carbon fiber is applied to the mirror caps, front storage compartment and air box lids, and the various air intakes. It also adds new titanium exhaust tips inspired by the Porsche 935/19 race car, a large Porsche emblem on the rear window, and upper dashboard upholstery in Race-Tex material. As an option for an option, magnesium wheels can be added to the package for a higher price tag.
It seems like the extra effort put into the 718 Cayman GT4 RS paid off, as Porsche's final Nurburgring testing results are quite impressive. The racetrack measures just over twelve miles, and the GT4 RS dominated it with a 7:09:300-minute lap time. You'll get to see the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS and its track-only Clubsport variant at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, and in Porsche dealers next summer. It starts at $141,700, not including delivery and handling fees.
Will the 718 Cayman GT4 RS be your big destination at the LA Auto Show?
Image Credits: Porsche
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