Porsche has unveiled the newest addition to the 718 lineup, the 718 Spyder RS, which is essentially an open-top version of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. With 493 horsepower on tap, the 718 Spyder RS is the most powerful Boxster yet.

2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS

The 718 Spyder RS is powered by the same powertrain as the 718 Cayman GT4 RS coupe. The 4.0-liter six-cylinder boxer engine revs to 9,000 rpm and generates 493 hp (79 more hp than the 718 Spyder) and 331 pound-feet of torque. The six-cylinder is mated to a seven-speed PDK transmission. The 718 Spyder RS can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, 0.5 seconds quicker than the 718 Spyder and it has a top track speed of 191 mph.

The 718 Spyder RS also weighs 59 pounds less than the 2023 Porsche 718 Spyder with the optional PDK.

The chassis of the 718 Spyder RS combines parts from 718 Cayman GT4 RS and the 718 Spyder. It comes standard with Porsche Active Suspension Management and has been lowered by 30 millimeters. It also features Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear limited slip differential, ball joint type suspension bearings and 20-inch forged alloy wheels. The ride height, toe, camber, and anti-roll bars are all adjustable. Compared to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, spring and damper rates have been reduced to achieve a more relaxed ride. A front axle lift system is optional that can raise the front end by 1.1 inches while driving up to 37 mph.

At the front the Porsche 718 Spyder RS looks similar to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The hood is made of CFRP with a wide air outlet above the bumper to channel the airflow. There are also two NACA ducts to cool the brakes and sideblades on the outer ends of the bumper contribute to downforce. The front spoiler lip is slightly shorter than on the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, since the Spyder RS doesn’t have a large rear wing would require a larger front spoiler lip to achieve aerodynamic balance. The 718 Spyder RS features a ducktail spoiler that is both larger and reshaped compared to the 718 Spyder.

2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS

The 718 Spyder RS comes with a manual soft top that consists of two parts: a sunshield and a weather protector. Both parts are completely removable and can be stowed in the 718. The top weighs just over 40 pounds and it’s 16 pounds lighter than the top on the 718 Spyder and more than 36 pounds lighter than 718 Boxster’s top.

Inside there’s the Race-Tex covered GT Sport steering wheel features a yellow 12-o’clock marking. The bucket seats are made of lightweight CFRP in a carbon-weave finish and the seat covers are made of black leather with perforated Race-Tex seat centers. The contrasting colors are Arctic Grey and Carmine Red.

The 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS is priced at $162,150, including destination. Deliveries will start in spring 2024.