2019 Porsche 718 Spyder And 718 Cayman GT4 Unveiled
Good news for sports car enthusiasts and those who seek big thrills behind the wheel: Porsche has just introduced a new, racier and more powerful version of its entry-level sports cars. The 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder and the 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 share a technical base for the first time. We鈥檙e talking about a newly developed, naturally aspirated flat-six engine (based on the same engine family as the turbo engines in the current 911 Carrera models) mated to a six-speed manual transmission. This 4.0-litre unit generates 414 horsepower鈥?9 hp more than in the GT4 predecessor and 39 hp more than in the previous Spyder鈥攁nd has a maximum engine speed of 8,000 rpm. In both cases, acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes just 4.4 seconds. The roadster has a top speed of 301 km/h, while the coupe is a bit faster at 304 km/h. If you prefer to go smooth, you should know that the engine features adaptive cylinder control which temporarily interrupts the injection process in one of the two cylinder banks to reduce fuel consumption under lighter loads.
For the first time, the 718 Spyder (not to be confused with the 718 Boxster) benefits from the high-performance GT chassis of the 718 Cayman GT4. With its superior cornering dynamics, it allows drivers to push the car even harder and enjoy a more emotional driving experience, Porsche says. The further refined and lightweight suspension makes use of racing technologies, while the PASM damping system enables a 30-mm drop in ride height, creating a lower centre of gravity. As for the high-performance braking system, it is designed to provide consistent braking that is suitable for track driving thanks to large, fixed aluminum calipers (ceramic composite brakes are optional). With regard to aerodynamics, the 718 Cayman GT4 produces up to 50 percent more downforce without adversely affecting drag. Most of it comes from the new, functional diffuser and fixed rear wing, the latter proving 20-percent more efficient than the old design. The front section, which is optimized in the GT style, maintains the aerodynamic balance with a large front lip spoiler and so-called air curtains that channel the airflow along the front wheels. Unlike the GT4, the new 718 Spyder has a rear spoiler that comes up automatically at 120 km/h. Meanwhile, its lightweight soft top can be stowed away under the rear deck lid in just a few steps, but it can easily cope with high speeds once installed, the company insists. The 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder and 718 Cayman GT4 are available to order now. 113,800, respectively, before you add the inevitable taxes, freight and delivery charges.
Using 鈥淨 by Aston Martin鈥? the marque's unique bespoke personalization program, Aston Martin Cambridge has worked with the Gaydon factory's design team to make the special editions, one for each hour of the 24-hour race. All will be in right-hand drive. The exterior is finished in a modern take on the DBR1's Aston Martin Racing Green, set off with a glossy carbon fiber roof. The bronze switches and dial surrounds of the Le Mans winner inspired several bronze-colored accents, including the grille, brake calipers, Superleggera lettering on the hood, and 21-inch forged aluminum two-tone satin wheels. A Q badge and individually numbered roundel is mounted on the front fender. Inside, the Q by Aston Martin team recreated the weave of the DBR1's upholstery on the DBS 59's seat backs and door panels. More bronze can be found on the shift paddles and 鈥?9 Edition鈥?logo embroidered on the seatbacks. The route of the 1959 Le Mans course is embroidered on the rear speaker cover. Accessories include replicas of Carroll Shelby's leather racing gloves, period correct blue racing suits, and a replica racing helmet with its own leather case, also embroidered with the 59 Edition logo. Mechanically, the DBS 59 is unchanged from the DBS Superleggera. It is powered by a 5.2-liter V-12 engine, making it the most powerful and fastest production car Aston Martin has ever produced, with a top speed of 211 mph.
The service's premise is similar to many other car subscription services from brands including Porsche, Cadillac, and Volvo. For one monthly rate, Mercedes-Benz will include the option to subscribe to up to 12 different cars per year, and the rate includes insurance, maintenance, repairs, and even tire wear. Subscribers will be able to drive up to 36,000 kilometers (around 22,000 miles) per year. The luxury marque said all vehicle requests, delivery scheduling, and collections will be handled online. Mercedes-Benz will also allow subscribers to pick out exactly what they want for their cars. Powertrain, exterior colors, interior motifs, and features will all be customizable ahead of the vehicles' delivery. Mercedes-Benz said it will include the A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, and the range-topping S-Class in the program. Pricing was not provided, though with the S-Class as part of the roster, expect premium prices. Porsche offers two separate tiers for its "Passport" subscription program. One includes less well-equipped vehicles, while the more expensive tier includes more sports cars and premium vehicles. 3,000 per month for the higher tier.