Baby 918: Spyder RS is last Porsche 718 with ICE

Porsche's most powerful mid-engine roadster is here

Porsche likes to save the best for last. And as Stuttgart released its final ICE model for the 718 Boxster / Cayman line, it turned out looking like a mini-me version of the Porsche 918 Spyder hypercar.

Say hello to the Porsche 718 Spyder RS. For all intents and purposes, the model serves as the counterpart of the hardcore 718 Cayman GT4 RS for those who like driving spiritedly with an open top.

In front, the 718 Spyder RS looks identical to the Cayman GT4 RS. The hood is made of carbon fiber and features a wide air inlet. Riding on 20-inch forged wheels, the 718 Spyder RS is lower by 30mm compared to the standard model.

At the back, the huge rear wing of the Cayman GT4 RS has been replaced with a ducktail to maintain the aerodynamic balance and remain stable at high speeds. Compared to the Cayman GT4 RS, the spring and damper rates have also been altered to achieve a more relaxed ride that's fit to a convertible.

When it's time to get some shade, the 718 Spyder RS comes with a manually-operated and removable single-layer soft-top sun sail with a wind deflector. Porsche kept the weight down as the fabric roof is lighter than both the standard Spyder and Boxster's retractable tops, leading to an overall curb weight of 1,410 kg.

Inside, the 718 Spyder RS has a performance-focused interior, getting lightweight CFRP seats covered in black leather with red stitching and accents.

The 718 Spyder RS uses the same 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated flat-six engine borrowed from the Porsche 911 GT3. It produces 500 PS with 450 Nm of torque and is mated to a seven-speed short-ratio PDK transmission. From a standstill, the 718 Spyder RS can reach 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, and 200 km/h in 10.9 seconds. Put your foot down all the way and the 718 Spyder RS will reach a top speed of 308 km/h.

As an RS model, the Weissach package is also being offered for the 718 Spyder RS, where optional forged magnesium wheels, a titanium sports exhaust system, and a matching Porsche Design chronograph can be availed.

Porsche will hold the public debut of the 718 Spyder RS at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where deliveries are also planned to commence in global markets.