THE FAVORED CHILD

2023 Porsche 718 Spyder

THOUGH LACKING THE ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY OF THE 911,

the 718—née Boxster—traces its roots back to Dr Ferdinand Porsche’s first designs. The concept is a classic; two seats, a disappearing roof, and a balanced performance. Though the 718 is larger, faster, and leagues more capable than its predecessors, the formula remains the same.

However, the Spyder is no ordinary 718. Paying homage to a style and name of a bygone era, the 718 Spyder turns up the dial in every aspect of the ownership experience. More curves. More power. More passion. More open air, even, as the soft top eschews electricity for manually-operated clips.

The underpinnings of the Spyder are similar to those of the Cayman GT4—perhaps the only model in Porsche’s lineup that could run with higher-end 911s on a racetrack. This is why most experienced drivers will insist that the best way to experience the GT4 is within the controlled confines of a circuit.

This could not be more wrong; the best way to enjoy the capabilities of the GT4, including that sonorous exhaust note inches behind the driver’s head, is with the top down.

The soundtrack echoing from the tailpipes beneath a clear blue sky on a crisp spring day could easily stand as the sole reason for purchase. It is a limited-release EP that can be played on repeat thanks to the long gearing of the 6-speed transmission and stratospheric 8,000 RPM redline. For 99% of owners, the car’s purpose will be fulfilled with each lengthened push of the gas pedal.

For those still unconvinced, the front axle and brakes are lifted directly from the 911 GT3 while the roll bars and ride height can be adjusted by hand to guarantee surefooted control. The exterior combines retro styling cues with decades of aerodynamic innovation resulting in a gorgeous, elongated, double bubble rear decklid and squared front jaw punched out with added cooling vents.

Thus, the 718 Spyder is the ultimate version of a model once derided by the Porsche faithful as nothing more than a marketing exercise. It does not share the 911’s cabinet of accolades, but the influence behind the 718 is no less genuine.

The 718 Spyder however brings an experience nothing else in the lineup can match. It delivers on the promise of its founders’ most pure design—the 550 Spyder of the late ‘50s. The 911 will always be the thinking man’s Porsche; but the 718 Spyder is for those who lead with their heart.

To learn more and browse current 718 Spyder inventory, visit PorscheWestPalmBeach.com.