The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is a mid-engine monster, a pure driver’s car, a vehicle designed and developed for the serious sportscar enthusiast.
It’s been a long time coming, but the 718 Cayman GT4 RS is finally here, and its grand entrance has caused something of a stir in the ranks of Porsche purists.
For decades the 911 has sat unchallenged at the top of the Porsche pecking order. In its various guises, the 911 has gracefully embodied the very essence of Porsche performance, desirability, and drivability. The mid-engine Boxter and Cayman always had the potential, but the 911, backed by stellar track performance and an aura of almost mythical proportions, remained unchallenged.
With the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, by design or otherwise, that might have changed.
On paper the GT4 RS performance is impressive. Put the pedal to the metal and you will hit 100mph in just seven seconds. The top speed is 196mph. But performance figures only hint at why, with its lightweight construction, mid-engine layout and fantastic balance, the GT4 RS is a winner.
There is nothing understated about the GT4 RS. Check out the low-cut styling, ultra-low-profile rims, wide and aggressive design, internal roll cage, race-style dials and gearshift, and carbon fibre bucket seats.
Behind the seats and coupled with a magically smooth, close-ratio PDK gearbox, the power unit is a tweaked 4.0L six-cylinder beast lifted from the iconic 911 GT3. It pumps out 500BHP delivered with a throaty roar that leaves traditionalists wiping away a nostalgic tear.
Internally and externally there’s a lot of carbon fibre in the GT4 RS. At the rear, downforce is generated by a substantial carbon fibre wing featuring a unique swan-neck connection and GT4 RS detailing.
The carbon fibre bonnet features two air ducts that channel air over the front brakes to ensure optimum cooling. The carbon fibre airbox has been moved to the interior and features a newly developed air filter for optimum air flow. The result is a raucous symphony that cuts right to the bone.
Despite reasonable luggage capacity and ample cabin space, like previous Porsche RS models, the Cayman won’t cut it as your day-to-day runabout. Even in its softest setting, the suspension is hard and unforgiving. But let’s face it, the GT4 RS was never created to be a commuter car.
Instead, owners can immerse themselves in a fully-fledged, extremely drivable, road legal, racing car, and the driving experience is simply exhilarating.
