Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

Durrah takes to the streets of Dubai to review the sensational new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, a car born in Flacht with the genes of a race car.

With a naturally aspirated heart inherited from the iconic 911 GT3, the GT4 RS delivers the most thrilling and focused driving experience yet from the 718 series. At the core of this uncompromising driver’s car lies a naturally aspirated flat-six engine, shared with the 911 GT3. Revving up to an exhilarating 9,000 rpm, the engine packs an impressive 493 horsepower, an increase of 79 horsepower compared to the 718 Cayman GT4. This power boost results in a remarkable weightto-power ratio of 6.55 lbs. per hp. The maximum torque also sees a bump from 317 lb.-ft. to 331 lb.ft., further enhancing the car’s performance.

The design of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS has been meticulously crafted to match its enhanced capabilities. The addition of air intakes behind the side windows on the driver and passenger side, replacing the small windows of other 718 Cayman models, optimizes the flow of intake air. This design choice not only improves performance but also allows drivers and passengers to experience the captivating engine sound up close. The side intakes in the rear quarter panels have also been revised to meet the cooling demands of the powerful engine.

The GT4 RS sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, half a second quicker than the 718 Cayman GT4 with PDK. It reaches a top track speed of 196 mph, a significant improvement over the GT4’s 187 mph, all achieved in seventh gear.

As with previous RS models, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS prioritizes lightweight construction. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used for the front fenders and hood, while the rear window is made of lightweight glass. The focus on reducing weight extends to the door panels, which feature fabric door opening loops and storage nets. These weight-saving measures contribute to the GT4 RS’s overall agility and performance.

A striking addition to the GT4 RS’s design is the fixed rear wing with a swan neck mount and aluminum supports, inspired by the Porsche 911 RSR race car. Alongside a lowered ride height, front wheel well ventilation, and aerodynamically optimized underbody with a rear diffuser, the GT4 RS generates up to 25 percent more downforce in porsche.com

Performance mode compared to the 718 Cayman GT4. The suspension has also been enhanced, featuring ball joints for improved precision and responsiveness. The RS-specific damper setup, revised spring and anti-roll bar rates, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels further elevate the car’s track-focused performance.

The GT4 RS’s exceptional performance is further highlighted by its record-setting lap times on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Porsche brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister completed a lap of the track in just 7:09.300 minutes, showcasing the car’s prowess. On a shorter track variant, the GT4 RS achieved an impressive time of 7:04.511 minutes, 23.6 seconds faster than the 718 Cayman GT4.

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sets a new benchmark for uncompromised performance and captivating design. With its powerful engine, aerodynamic enhancements, lightweight construction, and track-focused suspension, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is sure to impress discerning car enthusiasts.

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14 The GT4 RS delivers the most thrilling and focused driving experience yet from the 718 series

15 Revving up to an exhilarating 9,000 rpm, the engine packs an impressive 493 horsepower

The design of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS has been meticulously crafted to match its enhanced capabilities

17 The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sets a new benchmark for uncompromised performance and captivating design