Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS and Spyder RS: the flat-six swan song before silence

The 718 generation, introduced in 2016, is preparing to take its final bow. Before making way, it delivers its two most accomplished creations: the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and the 718 Spyder RS. For the first time, the RS badge — previously reserved exclusively for the 911 — has been applied to a Cayman, a clear sign that Stuttgart is holding nothing back. With a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six derived from the 911 GT3, a chassis of surgical precision and a philosophy entirely focused on driving pleasure, these two models represent the technical and emotional pinnacle of an already iconic lineage. The last units are still available at your Porsche Centres in Antibes and Monaco.

500 naturally aspirated horsepower, 9,000 rpm and a Nürburgring record: racing DNA in a road-going chassis

At the heart of the 718 GT4 RS and Spyder RS lies a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine directly derived from the 911 GT3. Producing 500 hp at 8,400 rpm and 450 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm, this high-revving engine reaches 9,000 rpm and uses six individual throttle bodies for instant response to every input. Forged pistons and titanium connecting rods highlight its direct motorsport lineage.

Power is delivered through a seven-speed PDK gearbox with shorter ratios, exclusive to RS models, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds. The GT4 RS reaches a top speed of 315 km/h, while the Spyder RS peaks at 308 km/h, its open-top configuration resulting in slightly different aerodynamics. Demonstrating its performance level, the GT4 RS completed the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes 09 seconds — 23.6 seconds faster than the standard GT4 — a significant improvement reflecting advancements in chassis, aerodynamics and weight reduction.

From a design perspective, the GT4 RS features air intakes carved into the front wings, deep rear side intakes feeding the engine, and a swan-neck mounted fixed rear wing generating 25% more downforce than the GT4. The Spyder RS, meanwhile, adopts a lightweight removable soft top and titanium exhaust outlets inspired by the 2018 935, itself a tribute to the legendary 935/78 from the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Two silhouettes, one shared sense of radical performance.

Race-inspired cockpit, Weissach package and final units: what the last 718 RS models have to offer

The interior of both models is designed as a true cockpit. An RS steering wheel with a centre marker, three circular instruments and fabric door pulls: every detail emphasises the direct connection between driver and machine. The GT4 RS goes even further with systematic weight reduction, featuring lightweight composite door panels, reduced insulation and bucket seats available through the Clubsport Package, which adds a bolted roll cage and a six-point harness.

For those seeking the ultimate specification, the optional Weissach Package represents the natural extension. It adds extensive visible carbon fibre elements — front bonnet, upper side air intakes and airbox — and features the “Weissach RS” logo, referencing Porsche’s motorsport development centre. On the Spyder RS, 20-inch forged magnesium wheels derived from the GT4 RS reduce unsprung mass by nearly 10 kg, directly benefiting agility and cornering precision.

In terms of braking, both models come standard with aluminium monobloc callipers with six pistons at the front and four at the rear, paired with large composite discs. The PCCB (Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake) system is available as an option, with ceramic discs approximately 50% lighter than cast iron equivalents. The PASM chassis, adjustable and specifically tuned for RS models, completes a package in which every component has been engineered for both track performance and winding road driving.

Produced in limited numbers, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and Spyder RS represent the final expression of a generation that pushed the limits of the naturally aspirated mid-engine concept. The remaining units available at your Porsche Centres in Antibes and Monaco represent a rare opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a Porsche destined to become a collector’s item.

Porsche 718 models available in MonacoPorsche 718 models available in Antibes