Built as the open-top counterpart to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the 718 Spyder RS gets the same normally-aspirated 4.0-liter 6-cylinder boxer engine from the 911 GT3 to help it churn out 500 horsepower and 450 Nm. Combined with a short-ratio 7-speed dual clutch transmission, the high-revving (9,000 rpm redline) two-seater rockets to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. It can also hit 200 km/h in just 10.9 seconds. Top speed is rated at 308 km/h.

More than just just raw power, the 718 Spyder GTS features an exceptionally lightweight soft-top roof (curb weight is just 1,410 kilograms or 40 kilograms less than the 718 Spyder and five kilograms lighter than the 718 Cayman GT4 RS). Its standard Porsche Active Suspension Management as well as spring and damper rates have been recalibrated for a more relaxed feel compared to the coupe. However, push it and its Porsche Torque Vectoring, mechanical limited-slip differential, and 20-inch forged wheels provide razor-sharp steering and neutral handling.

Looks-wise, the 718 Spyder RS looks almost identical to the Cayman GT4 RS except for new NACA ducts that enhance brake cooling, side blades on the outer ends of the bumper to increase downforce, a revised spoiler lip and ducktail rear spoiler. 

The top itself is a manually-operated single-layer soft top with two parts—a sun sail and a weather deflector. Both are completely removable and can be stowed together or singly in the vehicle. The sun sail alone can also be used as a “Bimini top”, thereby protecting the driver and front passenger from intense sunlight. In this case, the passenger compartment remains largely open to the side and behind the passengers. Together with the weather deflector, this creates a complete top that provides effective protection against rain when the side windows are raised. Drivers who wish to shave an additional eight kilograms from the weight of the vehicle can leave the top at home entirely, weather allowing.

Inside, the 718 Spyder RS has a Race-Tex covered steering wheel with a yellow 12-o’clock marking. The bucket seats are made of lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic with black leather upholstery. The seat center, meanwhile, is finished in grippy Race-Tax.

As always, a Weissach Package is also available for the Spyder RS as an option. This swaps the forged aluminum wheels for magnesium ones, while the sport exhaust tailpipes are switched from stainless steel to titanium. A visual highlight inside the car is the upper part of the dashboard covered with anti-glare Race-Tex.

The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is now available for orders at Porsche Center Philippines.