When Porsche introduced the 718 Boxster and Cayman at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show, public perception of the new models went both ways. While Porsche enthusiasts lamented the move towards a reduced capacity engine with four cylinders instead of six, the Stuttgart marque gained plaudits for condensing the fun and power of the earlier cars into a smaller package. The earliest models from the 982-generation Boxster and Spyder range were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre flat-four, but there was life in the big six yet. From 2019, Porsche made the Cayman GT4 and Spyder—based largely on the earlier Boxster Spyder—with a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six.

The Cayman GT4 RS and Spyder RS show the 718 family in its purest form. Both cars are engineered to extract more power from the 4.0-litre engine, rated at 493 brake horsepower for a 0-62 mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed hitting 191 mph. The Spyder RS is designed with additional air intakes, svelte louvres covering the flat-six’s mid-engine placement, and increased downforce compared to the standard car. Carbon fibre-reinforced plastic is used around the bodywork for overall lightweight construction, and the RS chassis has been specifically developed to enhance the open-topped Porsche’s engaging handling.

The car offered here is a delivery miles example, having completed production at Porsche’s Leipzig factory on 12 February 2024. At the time of cataloguing, the odometer read just 12 miles. Configured especially for its consignor, the 718 Spyder RS was built with GT Silver Metallic paintwork over a Black cabriolet hood and Black leather interior. The Porsche’s athletic stance is aided by 20-inch centre-lock 718 Cayman GT4 RS forged magnesium alloy wheels finished in Satin Black.

Benefitting from an optional extras sheet awash with desirable features (available to view in full on file), the Porsche is notably equipped with the Weissach package. This adds a carbon-weave finish to various parts of the exterior including the bonnet, air intakes, and wing mirrors, while adding a unique logo to the convertible top. Inside the car, the optional extras add a Race-Tex finish to the dashboard, other “Weissach” badging around the interior, and headrests embroidered with the logo. In combination with the magnesium alloy wheels, the selection of the Weissach package saves around 10 kilograms of weight.

With Porsche announcing in 2023 that the 718 Cayman GT4 and Spyder would soon be phased out—likely in anticipation of the Boxster and Cayman range going fully electric—the 718 Spyder RS will only appreciate over time as a rare spectacle that represented the best of its range. This nearly-new example awaits its next owner for enjoyment to the full.