Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS has the heart of a 911 GT3

New 718 Cayman GT4 RS packs 500 HP and revs to 9000 RPM

The wait for the ultimate 718 Cayman is finally over.

After numerous spy photos and official camouflaged prototype photos, Porsche has finally revealed the fastest and most track-oriented Cayman to date. Meet the 2023 718 Cayman GT4 RS, and it's a stunner.

What makes the 718 GT4 RS special is that it is the first model Cayman model to receive the RS treatment. Prior to this model, the most hardcore model you could order from Porsche was the Cayman GT4. That one already came with the Porsche 911's 4.0-liter mill derived from the 911 Carrera's 3.0-liter flat-six. But instead of using that same engine, the new GT4 RS packs the 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six from the current 992-generation 911 GT3.

With the new engine, the Cayman GT4 RS now produces 500 horsepower and 450 Nm torque. It's a bit down on power compared to the 911 GT3, but that's to be expected. Thankfully, Porsche retained the engine's 9000 RPM rev limit. Unlike the GT4, there won't be a manual transmission option. Like all modern RS models, this one shifts exclusively through a 7-speed PDK with low-ratio gears. As a result, 0 to 100 km/h only takes 3.4 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 315 km/h.

Apart from the 911 GT3 sourced engine, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS comes with a more aggressive aero setup. Up front, there's a new bumper with an adjustable front splitter. It's paired with a new carbon fiber hood that incorporates NACA ducts and vented fenders. Larger side intakes, a more aggressive diffuser, and a large rear wing complete exterior upgrades.

To make the GT4 RS handle better, 20-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with centerlocks are fitted. Users can also specify it with the optional Weissach Pack which will upgrade them to magnesium units. It will also replace more parts with lightweight carbon fiber to reduce weight. Other suspension changes include a lower ride height, Bilstein dampers, and revised anti-roll bars.

For a better reference on how fast the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS is, it lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife 23.6 seconds faster than the standard GT4 with a 7:04.5 lap time. It's also faster than the previous-generation 911 GT3 by 3.4 seconds.

Being the fastest Cayman ever, it does come with a steep price tag. The 2022 718 Cayman GT4 RS starts at EUR 141,338, or roughly PHP 8,052,000. Mind you that price doesn't include the Weissach Pack just yet.