The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS 4.0, introduced in 2022, represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s mid-engine sports car development. Part of the 982 generation of the 718 Cayman, the GT4 RS is not merely a performance upgrade, but a focused, track-oriented machine derived from the already capable GT4. Positioned above the standard Cayman and GT4 in terms of price and performance, it directly competes with other high-performance sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the Aston Martin Vantage. The “RS” designation, standing for “RennSport,” signifies Porsche’s motorsport heritage and commitment to delivering uncompromising driving experiences. This model is primarily sold in global markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a highly engaging and capable sports car.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS: A Deep Dive
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS builds upon the foundation of the 718 Cayman, a two-door, two-seat sports coupe known for its balanced handling and precise steering. However, the GT4 RS takes these attributes to an extreme, prioritizing track performance through extensive modifications to the engine, aerodynamics, and chassis. It’s a car designed to blur the line between road and race car, offering a visceral driving experience that few vehicles can match.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS lies a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, codenamed MDG.GA. This engine produces 493 horsepower at 8400 rpm and 449 Nm (331.17 lb.-ft.) of torque at 6250 rpm. The engine’s high-revving nature and linear power delivery are hallmarks of Porsche’s engineering philosophy. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch automatic transmission, optimized for rapid gear changes. This powertrain combination allows the GT4 RS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and achieve a top speed of 315 km/h (195.73 mph). The engine’s specific output is an impressive 123.4 horsepower per liter. The weight-to-power ratio of 3 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.3 kg/Nm further emphasize the car’s performance potential. A particulate filter is included in the engine systems to meet emissions standards.
Design & Features
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS boasts a striking and purposeful design. Its coupe body style is characterized by aggressive aerodynamic elements, including a prominent rear wing, redesigned front fascia with larger air intakes, and a rear diffuser. These features generate significant downforce, enhancing stability at high speeds. The car’s lightweight construction, with a curb weight of 1464 kg (3227.57 lbs.), contributes to its agile handling. Inside, the GT4 RS features a driver-focused cockpit with supportive sport seats, a minimalist dashboard, and extensive use of carbon fiber trim. While comfort isn’t the primary focus, the car offers essential amenities such as air conditioning and a modern infotainment system. Practicality is limited, with a trunk capacity of just 136 liters (4.8 cu. ft.). The car’s dimensions are 4455 mm (175.39 in.) in length, 1822 mm (71.73 in.) in width, and 1267 mm (49.88 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2484 mm (97.8 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 718 |
| Generation | 718 Cayman (982) |
| Type | GT4 RS 4.0 (493 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 299 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 281 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 315 km/h (195.73 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 493 Hp @ 8400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 449 Nm @ 6250 rpm (331.17 lb.-ft. @ 6250 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 9000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MDG.GA |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1464 kg (3227.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1771 kg (3904.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 307 kg (676.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 136 l (4.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4455 mm (175.39 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1267 mm (49.88 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2484 mm (97.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Approach angle | 6.4-10.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 10.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 408 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/35 R20 Rear wheel tires: 295/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20 Rear wheel rims: 11J x 20 |
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS 4.0 is a testament to Porsche’s dedication to driving purity and performance. It’s a car that demands attention and rewards skilled drivers with an unparalleled connection to the road. Its combination of a high-revving engine, sophisticated chassis, and aggressive aerodynamics makes it a formidable performer on both the street and the track.
