The previous generation Porsche Cayman GT4 is considered by many to be one of the best Porsche products of recent times. This week the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 made its debut. Click here to check out a really cool, single-seat Porsche Boxster concept car.

Apex models

Porsche took the occasion to launch, not one but, two models to spearhead its 718 family. The Cayman GT4 is joined by a roofless sibling, the latter model is referred to as the 718 Spyder. These two mid-engined models are near identical, save for the folding soft-top of the Spyder.

The 718 Spyder has a roof that can be stowed away under the boot lid in just a few seconds. Unlike the GT4, the 718 Spyder has a rear spoiler pops up automatically at 120 km/h. Thanks to the functional diffuser, it is the first model in the Boxster family to generate aerodynamic downforce at the rear axle.

Naturally aspirated

At the heart of both models lies a newly developed 4,0-litre flat-six engine. Purists will be happy to note that it is naturally aspirated motor that is mated with a six-speed manual transmission. This engine is capable of revving to 8 000 r/min produces a peak of 309 kW and maximum torque of 420 N.m between 5 000 and 6 800 r/min.

More downforce same drag

The press blurb states that the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 produces up to 50 percent more downforce than before without paying a drag penalty. The fixed rear wing produces around 20 percent more downforce for an additional 12 kg of downward pressure at 200 km/h.

Grippy feet

Porsche says that the new models run on ultra-high-performance rubber, created for this application. Aluminium monobloc fixed-calipers clamp large format discs at each corner. All of these components help the new 718 models achieve a Nurburgring Nordschleife lap time that is, according to Porsche, more than ten seconds quicker than its respective predecessor.

Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear differential enhances dynamics and makes for a more entertaining steer. The GT4 also comes with the option of a Clubsport package. This includes a rear steel roll bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and a six-point seatbelt on the driver’s side.