We've seen the spy shots. We've watched the Nürburgring laps. None of that, however, has prepared us for the level of want oozing out of the now ready-to-order Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, as it makes its world debut at the LA Auto Show today. Here are the full details of the first-ever Cayman to get the hallowed RS badge.
A little engine help from big brother
Mounted in the middle of the GT4 RS is a version of the astounding naturally aspirated flat-six used in the current 992 GT3. It's a 4.0-litre unit that screams to 9,000rpm, hitting 500hp on the way and maximum torque output of 450Nm. There are engine air intakes in place of the usual rear side windows that are claimed to enhance the sound as heard in the cabin.
A seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, the only gearbox option, is bolted to the back of the engine, sending power to the rear wheels. Porsche quotes a 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 315km/h, outgunning the existing 718 Cayman GT4 PDK by half a second and 13km/h, respectively. So equipped, the RS model knocks 23 seconds off the GT4's lap time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in Germany.
Of course, the performance increases alone aren't responsible for that. The RS also gets unique chassis measures, including ball-jointed parts, adjustable suspension and specific dampers, springs and anti-roll bars. That's not the end of the upgrades, either.
Visible aerodynamics upgrades
It doesn't take an aerodynamicist to realise that Porsche has worked hard on how the Cayman moves through the air. Most obvious is the massive new rear wing, which uses the same swan-neck attachment design as found in the 911 RSR GT racer (and the 992 GT3) for maximum efficiency. Porsche says the RS can, in its most extreme setup, generate about 25 per cent more downforce than the regular GT4 can. Aiding the rear wing is a lower ride height, vents on the front wheel arches, aerodynamically optimised underbody panelling with connected rear diffuser, an adjustable front diffuser and the new front spoiler lip with flow-around side blades.
The RS weighs 1,415kg with a tank of fuel on board, which is 35kg lighter than the standard PDK-equipped Cayman GT4. The weight saving is thanks to carbon fibre reinforced plastic bonnet and front wings, lighter carpets and rear-window glass, less insulation and a minimised interior with simpler door panels and storage areas.
Weissach package FTW
For the ultimate GT4 RS, buyers can upgrade to the Weissach package. This adds a carbon-weave finish to the bonnet, air intakes, mirrors, rear wing and airbox in the engine compartment. The titanium exhaust outlets are restyled to look like those of the Porsche 935 and a titanium roll cage is fitted to the rear of the cabin. Up front you'll find Race-Tex trim on the dashboard and 'PORSCHE' is emblazoned across the rear window. Spend a little more again and the standard 20-inch forged aluminium wheels are replaced with magnesium items.
Road car for the racetrack
And if all that still doesn't turn the 718 Cayman into the trackday car of your dreams, Porsche will happily sell you an actual racing version. Called the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport, it too makes its debut in Los Angeles this week.