Specifications
4.0L Flat-Six
500PS
450Nm
3.4 second
315 km/h
Seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Weissach – A Masterpiece of Motorsport Engineering
Some cars are designed for comfort, others for luxury, and a select few are engineered with one purpose in mind: pure driving pleasure. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS belongs firmly in that final category.
Finished in the timeless GT Silver Metallic and equipped with the sought-after Weissach Package, exposed carbon-fibre components and distinctive satin-gold magnesium wheels, it is a remarkable combination of performance, precision and Porsche craftsmanship.
Performance: A Naturally Aspirated Masterpiece
At the heart of the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sits a spectacular 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine, closely related to the powerplant found in the Porsche 911 GT3.
Producing an impressive 500 PS (493 bhp) and 450 Nm of torque, the engine delivers an extraordinary level of performance without relying on turbocharging. Its ability to rev all the way to 9,000 rpm creates an unmistakable soundtrack, offering a driving experience that has become increasingly rare in modern performance cars.
Paired exclusively with Porsche's lightning-fast seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, the GT4 RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 315 km/h.
The gearbox has been developed with shorter ratios and rapid shifts, ensuring the engine remains in its optimal power band. Drivers can also take control through the steering-wheel-mounted paddles or the motorsport-inspired gear selector.
One of the most distinctive features of the GT4 RS is its unique air-intake arrangement. Instead of the small rear quarter windows found on the standard Cayman, Porsche has incorporated large intake openings that channel air directly towards the engine.
Positioned immediately behind the occupants, these intakes create an incredible induction sound as the engine approaches its 9,000 rpm limit. The result is an exceptionally immersive driving experience, where every acceleration is accompanied by the unmistakable character of Porsche's high-revving flat-six.
Exterior Design: Where Aerodynamics Meet Aggression
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS makes its intentions clear before the engine is even started.
Finished in elegant GT Silver Metallic, this example strikes a beautiful balance between understated sophistication and aggressive motorsport styling. Contrasting exposed carbon-fibre elements and satin-gold wheels give the car a distinctive appearance that separates it from an ordinary Cayman.
At the front, a deeply sculpted bumper features enlarged air intakes and an extended aerodynamic splitter. The carbon-fibre bonnet incorporates two prominent NACA air ducts, designed to direct cooling air towards the front braking system while minimising aerodynamic drag.
Additional vents positioned above the front wheel arches help release trapped air pressure, reducing lift and improving stability during high-speed driving.
Moving along the side profile, the widened aerodynamic elements and large rear air intakes reinforce the GT4 RS's track-focused character. Carbon-fibre mirror housings, sharp body lines and pronounced side intakes complement its low, purposeful stance.
Dominating the rear is the spectacular swan-neck rear wing, inspired by Porsche's racing technology. Unlike conventional rear-wing designs, the swan-neck supports attach from above, allowing cleaner airflow beneath the wing and improving aerodynamic efficiency.
Working alongside the rear diffuser, underbody aerodynamics and adjustable front aero components, the GT4 RS can generate approximately 25% more downforce than the regular Cayman GT4 when configured in its track-only Performance setting.
Completing the exterior are distinctive clear rear lights, a sculpted diffuser and centrally positioned twin exhaust outlets, perfectly capturing the car's racing identity.
The Weissach Package: Taking the GT4 RS Further
The Weissach Package is one of the most desirable specifications available for the GT4 RS, introducing additional lightweight materials and exclusive motorsport-inspired details.
This particular example showcases the package beautifully, with an exposed carbon-fibre front bonnet, rear wing, side air-intake surrounds and exterior mirror housings.
The lightweight theme continues beneath the surface, with a titanium rear roll cage and distinctive titanium-finished exhaust tailpipe trims inspired by Porsche's 935 race car.
Another particularly impressive feature is the set of optional 20-inch forged magnesium centre-lock wheels, finished in satin gold. Available in conjunction with the Weissach Package, these wheels offer a weight saving of approximately 10 kg compared with the standard forged aluminium wheels.
Beyond their striking appearance, reducing wheel weight helps lower unsprung mass, contributing to sharper steering responses and improved suspension control.
The wheels are complemented by black Porsche-branded brake callipers and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, completing a specification that is as visually distinctive as it is technically impressive.
Exclusive Weissach branding, exposed carbon-fibre details and the prominent PORSCHE lettering across the rear window complete the package, making this GT4 RS a truly special example.
Interior: A Cockpit Built Around the Driver
Step inside the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and it becomes immediately clear that the driving experience takes priority.
The interior combines premium craftsmanship with a stripped-back, motorsport-inspired design. This example features a sophisticated black and grey cabin, with leather, Race-Tex and satin carbon-fibre detailing throughout.
Taking centre stage are the lightweight carbon-fibre full bucket seats, designed to provide exceptional lateral support during enthusiastic driving. The seats feature exclusive Weissach RS embroidery on the headrests, while the exposed carbon-fibre seat shells reinforce the car's racing character.
This example is also equipped with Schroth Racing harnesses and a titanium rear roll cage, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a competition car.
The Race-Tex-trimmed steering wheel features a yellow centre marker, allowing the driver to recognise the steering position instantly. Behind it sits Porsche's traditional instrument cluster, complete with a centrally positioned rev counter that places engine speed at the forefront of the driving experience.
Carbon-fibre trim extends across the dashboard and centre console, surrounding the distinctive PDK gear selector. A red Sport Chrono clock mounted above the dashboard adds another motorsport-inspired detail.
Despite its performance-focused nature, the GT4 RS retains an impressive selection of modern conveniences.
This particular example is equipped with Porsche Communication Management (PCM), satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, a BOSE sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control and cruise control.
These features provide a welcome degree of comfort and practicality without compromising the focused character that defines Porsche's RS models.
Driving Dynamics: Precision Without Compromise
The GT4 RS is not simply about straight-line performance. Its true character lies in the way it responds to the driver.
Thanks to its mid-engine layout, lightweight construction and specially developed suspension, the GT4 RS offers exceptional balance and agility.
The model's DIN unladen weight of just 1,415 kg demonstrates Porsche's commitment to weight reduction, achieved through extensive use of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, lightweight glass and reduced interior sound insulation.
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) features specially calibrated adaptive dampers, allowing the suspension to respond to varying road conditions and driving demands.
The chassis also benefits from ball-joint suspension connections, revised spring rates and Porsche Torque Vectoring with a mechanically locking rear differential, all contributing to exceptionally precise steering and improved cornering performance.
The effectiveness of these upgrades was demonstrated at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, where the GT4 RS achieved a lap time of 7 minutes and 4.511 seconds around the 20.6 km configuration, making it more than 23 seconds faster than the standard Cayman GT4.
Although the GT4 RS has been developed with circuit performance in mind, this particular example includes several features that enhance everyday usability.
The optional front-axle lift system raises the front of the vehicle to help negotiate steep entrances and speed bumps, a particularly welcome feature for Malta's roads.
Rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System further improve convenience, making the GT4 RS more manageable outside the racetrack.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Expression of the Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS represents one of the most exciting achievements in Porsche's modern performance-car history.
By combining a sensational 9,000 rpm naturally aspirated flat-six, race-derived aerodynamics and an exceptionally precise mid-engine chassis, Porsche has created a car that prioritises driver involvement above everything else.
While modern sports cars continue to pursue greater levels of power, technology and electrification, the GT4 RS serves as a reminder of what makes traditional performance engineering so captivating: engine response, mechanical precision, lightweight construction and an unforgettable soundtrack.
For true Porsche enthusiasts, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Weissach is more than just a high-performance sports car. It is a celebration of everything that makes driving special.
