Porsche will be using the upcoming LA Auto Show 2021 as a platform to present a few key models with the latest 718 Cayman GT4 RS as the showstopper. Designed as an uncompromising driver’s car, the mid-engine sports car gets an uprated engine, aerodynamics and reworked chassis tuning.
At 420 hp, the outgoing 718 Cayman GT4 already has plenty of grunt propelling such a light sports car, as experienced by Eujin at Sepang International Circuit (video here). For this RS variant, Porsche has gladly increased the output and redline of the 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated flat-six to a whopping 500 hp and 9,000 rpm, just 10 hp shy of the magnificent 2021 Porsche 911 GT3.
Weighing in at just 1,415 kg, the power-to-weight ratio per tonne is a phenomenal 353 hp/tonne, just 6.3 units lower than the more powerful 911 GT3. Maximum torque also sees an increment from 430 Nm to 450 Nm. The 500 hp engine breathes better thanks to intake ducts fitted on the side windows with the burnt gases exit through a titanium exhaust system that mimics the Porsche 935. Â
While it was extraordinarily enjoyable rowing through the shift lever and a clutch pedal that is so communicative, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is exclusively available only with the Porsche Dual Clutch Transmission (PDK), a trend in every modern RS model. The additional power and slightly revised gear ratios shave 0.5 seconds off the regular GT4’s benchmark 0 to 100 km/h sprint time to just 3.4 seconds and topping off to a top speed of 315 km/h.
Modifications to the chassis are expected being an RS model and this new Cayman GT4 RS gets modified spring rates, anti-roll bars as well as adjustable, circuit-ready shock absorbers with 30 mm lower ride height. Ball joints bind the chassis tightly to the body to deliver even more precise and direct handling.
On the exterior, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS replaces many body panels including the bonnet and front fenders with lightweight carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) material. Adding to the list of items for the lightweight recipe are thinner carpets, reduction in insulation materials and simple door panels- all contribute to a total of 35 kg in weight savings.
An extensive aerodynamic package has also been given to the new GT4 RS, featuring front fender vents, multi-adjustable front diffuser, a new front spoiler lip with flow-around side blades while the rear end sees the prominent larger swan-neck rear wing working in conjunction with a larger and deeper rear underbody diffuser. Â Â Â Â
All these, together with a track-only ‘Performance Mode’ add up to an increase of close to 25% in downforce levels compared to the regular GT4. With the higher engine power, better chassis, lighter weight and improved aerodynamic grip levels, the new Cayman GT4 RS easily clocked in a time of 7:04.511 around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, 23.6 seconds faster than the regular Cayman GT4. Â
As usual, every bit of performance enhancement come at a cost, in the region of over GBP23,000 extra when compared to the current Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 with Clubsport Package. Priced at GBP108,370, (approx. RM607k), the Porsche Cayman GT4 RS is 37% pricier than the base GT4 model, which was available from Sime Darby Auto Performance at a price of RM999,000.
An optional Weissach package is also available to be added onto the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, consisting of exposed carbon-weave finish on the body panels and rear wing, the stylish 935-type exhaust tips, titanium roll cage, dashboard featuring Race-Tex material and even the choice for forged magnesium 20-inch rims.
Porsche will also unveil the track-only 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport racing version at the LA Auto Show, plus showcasing the new Panamera Platinum Edition to the members of the public for the first time.
GALLERY
