Porsche Unveils New 718 Spyder And 718 Cayman GT4
Porsche has announced the addition of the new 718 Spyder and the 718 Cayman GT4 into its 718 model range. For the first time ever, both the 718 Spyder and the 718 Cayman GT4 share the same technical base. This includes the newly developed 4.0-litre 6-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission. The naturally aspirated engine, which is based on the same engine family as the turbo engines in the current 911 Carrera model series, generates 420 PS (35 PS more than the GT4 predecessor models) and 420 Nm of maximum torque. Thanks to the powertrain, both cars are capable of breaking the 300 km/h barrier. While the 718 Spyder has a top speed of 301 km/h, the 718 Cayman GT4 can reach 304 km/h. In terms of acceleration, both models accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds from a standing start. On the exterior, the 718 Cayman GT4 features a comprehensively improved aero kit, producing up to 50 per cent more downforce than the outgoing Cayman GT4 without adversely affecting drag. The front section, which is optimised in the GT style, also maintains the aerodynamic balance with a large front spoiler lip and so-called air curtains. The 718 Spyder on the other hand, comes with a removable roof that is suitable for everyday use and can be stowed away under the boot lid in just a few steps. Unlike the GT4, the 718 Spyder has a rear spoiler that comes up automatically at 120 km/h. Thanks to the functional diffuser, it is the first model in the Boxster family to generate aerodynamic downforce at the rear axle. For the first time ever, the 718 Spyder also benefits from the high-performance GT chassis of the 718 Cayman GT4. The GT4 also comes with the option of a Clubsport package. This includes a rear steel roll bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and a six-point seatbelt on the driver's side.
The 4C is one of the sexiest sports cars you can buy nowadays, but, unlike the Cayman, there鈥檚 only one engine option available. This might change over the next couple of years, but, for now, the 4C can only be had with a 1,750cc four-banger that churns 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Italian sports car needs only 4.5 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standing start, while reaching a top speed of 160 mph. EPA fuel estimates sit at 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which means the 4C is not just fast, but efficient as well. 54,000, which puts it on par with the entry-level Cayman. Find out more about the Alfa Romeo 4C here. Much like the 718 Boxster, the 718 Cayman got an exciting update that brings the extra aggressiveness of a fixed-roof coupe into the mix. Quicker, more powerful, and more fuel efficient than its predecessor, the 718 Cayman marks the beginning of a new era for Porsche鈥檚 entry-level sports car.
But, while the improved performance and the addition of the iconic "718" badge will most likely make most enthusiasts happy, the lack of a naturally aspirated flat-six might draw some criticism from hardcore fans. While I have no doubt that the new 718 Cayman will be greater than ever before, I do worry about the next GT4, which could no longer feature the 911 Carrera-spec flat-six. Updated 06/01/2016: Porsche dropped a new video in which it highlights the new "SPORT Response" button, which is part of the Sport Chrono Package. Hit "play" to see what it brings new on the 718 lineup. Updated 05/19/2016: Porsche dropped a new video in which it wants to highlight how much can you fit in a 718 Cayman. Hit "play" to learn more about the Cayman鈥檚 luggage space. Updated 05/13/2016: Porsche dropped a new video in which it highlights the optionally available PTV (Porsche Torque Vectoring) for the new 718 Cayman. Hit "play" to watch it!
Updated 05/04/2016: Porsche dropped a new video in which it shows its new 718 models in motion. Hit "play" to watch it! Updated 04/29/2016: Porsche dropped a new video for the recently launched 718 Cayman in which it highlights the design features of the new coupe. Hit "play" to watch it! Updated 04/25/2016: Porsche unveiled the new 718 Cayman at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show. Launched in 2005, the Porsche Cayman shared the same mid-engine platform and many components with the second-generation Boxster. The coupe first arrived in showrooms as the Cayman S. The model was powered by a 3.4-liter flat-six derived from the Boxster S鈥?3.2-liter unit that cranked out 291 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. The base model gained the familiar 2.7-liter six-cylinder with 241 ponies and 201 pound-feet. The 2009 facelift brought a new engine and output increases across the board. The 3.4-liter churned 315 horses and 273 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.9-liter came with 261 ponies and 221 pound-feet on tap. In 2012, the 3.4-liter was again updated to deliver 321 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of twist, while the 2.7-liter returned with 271 horses and 214 pound-feet. All these drivetrain upgrades were accompanied by mild design enhancements. The second-gen Cayman, which arrived in 2013, begins with a 2.7-liter flat-six rated at 275 horses and 213 pound-feet. The 3.4-liter comes in two guises. The S generates 325 ponies and 273 pound-feet, while the GTS delivers 340 horsepower and 280 pound-feet.