Porsche’s highly anticipated GT4 RS equivalent has been the subject of speculation for some time, but now the automaker has officially confirmed its existence. While there are a few notable distinctions between the Spyder RS and its counterpart, Porsche emphasizes that the powertrains remain unchanged. The heart of this beast lies in its 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine, capable of revving up to an astounding 9000 rpm and delivering an impressive output of 493 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. This power advantage of 79 hp over the already potent 718 Spyder sets the Spyder RS apart.

Similar to other modern Porsches bearing the distinguished RS designation, the Spyder RS will only be offered with Porsche’s seven-speed PDK automatic transmission. The gear ratios have been revised to enhance acceleration, a strategy also employed in the Cayman. According to Porsche’s official figures, the new RS is projected to achieve a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds, matching the Cayman’s performance on paper. However, we believe these estimates to be conservative and anticipate the new RS to reach closer to the 2.8-second mark, a time we recorded during our testing of the GT4 RS last spring.

In terms of its chassis, the Spyder RS draws inspiration from both the Cayman GT4 RS and the 718 Spyder. It comes equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management and features sport calibration, coupled with a 1.2-inch reduction in ride height. Notable additions include a mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear, ball-jointed suspension mountings, and 20-inch center locking forged alloy wheels. While the spring and damper rates have been lowered compared to the GT4 RS, this adjustment creates a more relaxed and distinctly convertible-style setup, as described by Porsche.

The front end of the new RS closely resembles that of the GT4 RS, incorporating a slightly shorter carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic splitter to compensate for the absence of a rear wing. Instead, an enlarged and reshaped ducktail spoiler aids in generating downforce at the rear, enhancing overall stability and aerodynamic performance.

For those seeking even greater weight savings, Porsche offers the optional Weissach package. This package includes carbon-fiber replacements for various components such as the front hood, door mirror caps, upper and lower side air intakes, and the Gurney flap on the duckbill. Additionally, the Weissach package introduces a titanium exhaust system inspired by the limited-edition 935 released in 2018.

As expected from an RS model, Porsche has prioritized weight reduction. This emphasis on shedding pounds is evident in the implementation of fabric door straps instead of traditional interior handles. Additionally, when weather permits, drivers can fully embrace the open-top experience by manually lowering the soft top. However, should the weather take a turn for the worse, drivers will need to exit the vehicle to secure the top back in place. Weighing just over 40 pounds, the soft top itself is considerably lighter than its standard counterpart, contributing to a weight reduction of 16 pounds.

The new Spyder RS is scheduled to arrive at dealerships in the spring of 2024 with a starting price of $162,150. Porsche intends to unveil the car to the public at a celebratory event in June, followed by its appearance at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. With a price tag approximately $20,000 higher than that of the Cayman GT4 RS equivalent, Porsche’s ability to entice customers to pay more for less is a testament to the brand’s allure and desirability.

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