Porsche 981 Spyder Review - why you DON'T need a 718 | 4k

During my day filming with Paul S and his current (immense) fleet, he was keen to get me out in the Porsche 981 Spyder he has. This car - intended as a stop gap between others has quickly become a favourite - so I HEADED OUT INTO THE Gloucestershire countryside to find out why!
3.8 litre, 6 speed manual, roof off... can it REALLY live up to the hype.
Lets find out?!?!
HUGE thank you as always to Paul for his time and efforts x
cheers all for tuning in
CMD X

[@ianmcwilliams6453]

Yes I love the noise of our 981 GT4 - I'm in my 60's but turn into a kid in that car, including every time I go through the Dartford Tunnel 😂

[@CarMadDad]

Can completely see why Sir 🫡

[@clu4u]

I’m 73, 981Spyder here, I agree about the sound!

[@robertgregory1927]

Love my Spyder, just picked up a 2021 6/12/24…fantastic car!

[@CarMadDad]

Bet you do chap - great choice

[@jamesoleary8641]

Excellent review. Agree completely. The 981 Spyder is a keeper. Have about 10k on mine and enjoyed every mile. The sound, the lines, the handling. Beautiful car. Will only get better with time. Thanks for the video.

[@CarMadDad]

Couldn't agree more - thank you and enjoy

[@VK6AB-]

Yep 981 great generation. Every single model, if specced "right" was very good. One of the very few cars I have ever kept is the 981 Cayman GTS with PTV, PASM, PSE, SC, body coloured dials etc - 'only' 3.4L and 340HP but its just about perfect on any back road. The sound is better then the spyder as it seems to wail more e.g. slightly higher pitch. I have some great cars inc. 720S and 991.2 GT3 RS and I have zero hesitation saying the 981 GTS is a real keeper and can fully concur with your 981 Spyder review and understand why for the owner, its a keeper. Well said with the microwave.

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers fella - love this ☝️

[@mihanso1]

Great vid and bang on conclusions IMO. Here’s a quick thought, in my short quest for driving engagement with soul and after owning a few Caymans and a 991.2 GTS, my current car is a 458 spider, arguably no slouch in the sound department. I still think longingly back to the sublime soundtrack that my 981 Cayman GTS made so I can only imagine how this thing sounds without a roof!

[@kevinmcg6747]

Absolutely hits the target as to why we buy sports cars! I’ve been out in a 981 GT4 and the noise was intoxicating so this will be at another level! If the chance arrives I’d suggest getting behind the wheel of an Evora GT400, I think you might like it! Cheers, Kevin.

[@CarMadDad]

Noted chappy - I’ll keep an eye out 👀

[@mpp9964]

A few more comments… The dyno charts show the 4L pulls right to redline whereas the 981 engine falls off. And the aftermarket still can’t make the 4L sound as good as the 981 engine. I wish you could get the 718 Spyder but with the sound of the 981. Would be perfection

[@CarMadDad]

Agreed 👍

[@arymonem]

Love the example you gave about Tesla. Some people still don’t understand that going fast in a straight line is overrated. It’s never been the intend of these cars. Their purpose is to touch your sole every time you drive them. And they do a damn good job doing just that.

[@clu4u]

I have a 2016 Tesla P85D and a Porsche 981 Spyder, the Tesla is better on the interstate and inclement weather. We got 700”+ of snow last winter. If your sole needs touching, don’t wear socks.😂🎉

[@CarMadDad]

Agreed 👍

[@arymonem]

@@clu4u you seriously comparing these 2 cars on interstate and inclement weather?! It’s like saying I have a Jeep Rubicon and a BMW M2, and Jeep does a great job off-roading and rock crawling :). But you were right, as soon as I took off my socks, my soles were nicely touched ;)

[@mpp9964]

The 718 Spyder isn’t a GT4 without a roof, the 981 version has suspension differences Great video though and an outstanding car. Pity the 718 Spyder doesn’t sound anywhere near that good

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers fella - a few ppl have noted the gt4 comment - my bad!

[@pdds1]

Great video! I went from a 991.1 Turbo, to a 997 GT3 and now the 981 Spyder. I’ve kept the Spyder the longest. My favorite is still the 997.2 GT3 and miss the glorious sound, but the Spyder is 90% of the GT3 and 6 years newer. I do regret trading the GT3 but I have no desire to trade the Spyder and never will.

[@CarMadDad]

Yeah I can see why chap - what a thing!

[@bennoek9]

Great video Dale and I totally agree with you about the Spyder. It’s just an EPIC car, I was lucky enough to drive it back from Porsche Swindon a few months ago and when I say I was following Paul in an M3CS you won’t need me to tell you it was a spirited drive :) Keep up the good work 👍🏼

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers fella 👌 👍

[@adr0110]

"This That So On & So Forth" 🤣

[@bennoek9]

@@adr0110 you know 😂👍🏼

[@tomcraig8027]

The high water mark of the Porsche Spyder journey. Nice review

[@CarMadDad]

Thaaannnkk yoouuu

[@adamcaleb]

Well done on the bbq/microwave analogy 😊

[@CarMadDad]

Thanks! 😊 I wish I could claim it as my own … heard it somewhere else and thought “using that” 😂

[@denisvogel5155]

As good a driver's car the 981 Spyder is, I'm surprised you thought the 981 3.8 a better engine than the 4 in the 718. The 4.0 is more linear, pulls harder to the redline and has better low end grunt. The 3.8 does make a much better noise but that doesn't make it the better engine. As well, I think you were remiss when you said the Spyder was a soft top GT4. The suspensions are very different. Anyway, I enjoyed the video and look forward to seeing more reviews from CMD.

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers fella I’ve been pulled on the GT4 comment - my misunderstanding 👌 I would say the 3.8 is better however it was historically dismissed by myself as all I heard was “you have to go for the 4” - I think the 3.8 has a lovely feel / sound. They are both special - but I wouldn’t dismiss it anymore 👍

[@denisvogel5155]

Fair enough! It wasn't the 3.8 that was being dismissed but rather the suggestion that it was superior to the 4.0. You're entitled to your opinion even if many would disagree.😁

[@CarMadDad]

👍

[@clu4u]

@@denisvogel5155Actually the 3.8 has the same max torque, 309 ft lbs, but at a lower rpm. 4750 rpm vs 5000 rpm in the 4.0. The 4.0 has more hp after 5000 rpm.

[@bispal]

I found this too and agree 💯

[@andyjackson5404]

I agree 100%. Rubberized chicken out of the microwave or BBQ perfection … Give me the visceral experience every time. Porsche knows how to deliver it

[@CarMadDad]

Hear hear 👍

[@perdomus]

Great Video. Thanks. I think this is the perfect canyon carver car. While the 718 spyder is more a track car. I have a 981 spyder and have driven the 718 spyder and thats my thought. And even after talking to the porsche dealership, the fact that this is a 911 engine and not a gt engine, it means that in the future the spare parts will be cheaper and easier to get. No deny the 718 spyder is more capable, but this one has more soul in my opinion.

[@CarMadDad]

Didn’t know that about the engine chap - interesting 🤔

[@perdomus]

@@CarMadDad the 981 spyder like the gt4 both have the 991s engine a little bit detuned. In the spyder a bit more since in this one is 10 hp less then the gt4. Since I f both had the power the spyder would be faster due to the lightness.

[@CarMadDad]

Noted 📝

[@Spyder_Tours]

When mines sold I’ll be looking for a 981 instead 👌🏻thanks for confirming it 😁

[@CarMadDad]

Cracking thing chap

[@steveallen3335]

It’s a 981, so I’m not surprised it blew you away. All of the 981 range are simply incredible with the Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE).

[@CarMadDad]

Agreed chap - could t believe it was stock!

[@Scala598]

I was lucky enough to get a drive in one just like that while up in Scotland with PH. Totally agree with your views, an immersive, visceral driving experience, and one that I will never forget. Iirc the spyder is slightly different from the gt4 in that it has the x73 suspension rather than the gt3 front axle.

[@CarMadDad]

Noted chappy - cheers for view and thoughts 👌

[@VK6AB-]

has the turbo steering rack as well

[@villaman4818]

Thanks for the review. As a knew Spyder owner (981) i can say its the best feeling / driving Porsche ive owned. Really can't see past this at the moment...don't want the 982 which is 140 kg heavier and doesn't sound as good...and its electric next gen. Loved the Chicken comment ....I'm going to claim that as my own now. Good cause also so I've subscribed and past on. Keep em coming 🐔

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers fella Not going to pretend I came up with it… heard it a while back in a podcast (I think) - so please pass it on 😂 See you around 👍

[@WanderingFriar]

I have a 2015 991.1 GTS currently, Ignoring the 991.2 & 992 and I am watching this excitedly, why? I previously had a 981 GTS Boxster and that was an animal! This will take it to another level and it was a very tormentious few weeks before I went for the 911 991 over this gem of a Porsche, the 981 Spyder! You have to hear these cars to believe the way the sound. You've said it all - The only thing that matters in this car is THE SOUND! Microwave vs BBQ analogy - Spot on! To the Tesla owner - In the words of Margaret Thatcher - "....if you have to tell people you are, you aren't." P.S. My daily is also an EV (Audi) before I'm slaughtered 😂

[@CarMadDad]

All about the noise buddy - thank you for the view and comments

[@danielsonscott3038]

I own the 987.2 Spyder PDK and love it, although is not a fast car is not slow either, i'd love to drive this 981 with 45 extra hp to see how big the difference is!

[@CarMadDad]

Sure it’s a similar visceral and engaging experience chap 👍

[@johnbris5]

Thanks for that- it could be the modern Boxster that'll provide the same driving pleasure as my 987's. I found the 4.0 GTS underwhelming. However, prices on the second hand market are quite high.

[@CarMadDad]

With good reason I suspect chap

[@hbullock]

It’s not actually a gt4 without a roof, but I’m guessing you know that (whereas that is exactly what the 718 spyder is). Also, the 4L has better legs up top, whereas the 3.8 runs out of breathe. Yes, it does sound better due to no GPF, but that can easily be remedied (depending on where you live). I’m not saying the 981 isn’t a great car, and someone may certainly not think the cost delta is worth it,. Or that the stock exhaust note is just too perfect and is worth keeping. There’s no bad choice here! :) (PS since you donate all proceeds, you gained a subscriber! Well done.) And I’ve just been terribly redundant with the already existing commentary. Apologies!

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers for the thoughts / view and input chappy - always looking to improve - appreciate the sub 💪

[@vanischan9946]

Sounds more amazing than my 981 GT4 even with roof closed, may be due to its soft top

[@CarMadDad]

Yeah sounds epic

[@mattcunliffe5154]

"my microwave could cook a chicken, in the same way as my BBQ can cook a chicken.... but you don't go round to your mates for a microwave meal do you?"....... Possibly the best line I've ever heard, anywhere, EVER! - And even better that it was aimed at an i.d.i.o.t Tesla fanboy.. Well done Dale!

[@CarMadDad]

I can’t take all the credit chap - heard it elsewhere - but I had a similar thought to you when I did 👍

[@clu4u]

I have the best of both worlds, 2016 Tesla P85D and a 2016 981 Spyder. Both are equally fun, the Tesla on the interstate and in the snow is much better than the Porsche. Folks who hate on cars are I.d.I.o.t.s.

[@clu4u]

You wankers have no fvcking clue whatsoever. I’ve had a P85D and a 981 Spyder and it’s the perfect HWY/ B road combo. “I pity the fool”, the 985D is the best HWY cruiser. Don’t be so ignorant, you should know better.

[@matthowells9318]

Sounds amazing!

[@CarMadDad]

👍

[@grantfergusson-hx3fp]

I never fully understood the Spyder till now! ❤

[@CarMadDad]

👍

[@vicjones3992]

A mate of mine has a 991 Gen 1 GTS PDK with that engine.....sounds just the same❤.

[@CarMadDad]

Spectacular thing chap 👌

[@gregvickers3633]

How did you find the gearing on the Spyder? Is it very low geared so 60 is in second? Do yiu get chance to use all the gears? Greets video love the channel. Ps if you want to test a New Morgan plus six pm me 👍

[@CarMadDad]

Found the gearing long (expected) but not as long as the GTS PDK

[@bellastaffypearmapearman2666]

liked subscribed and thoroughly enjoyed. Harrys garage watch out,theres a new kid in town❤

[@CarMadDad]

Appreciate that one chappy - cheers

[@clu4u]

I’m LOL about the Tesla commentary, P85D and a 981 Spyder here. Both are exemplary, horses for courses.

[@CarMadDad]

Agreed 👍

[@curtwebbe6301]

I have a 981 cayman s and want a spyder. I figured I would just buy a 718 as it’s newer. I’ve driven a 4.0 in a cayman gts. I didn’t love it. More power but not as interesting as my 981. So now I really think I’ll look for a 981 spyder rather than 718. Finally, I don’t like the air vents in the 718. The 981 air vents look better imo . First world problems lol.

[@CarMadDad]

Indeed my friend - but sounds like your enjoying them which is a big win 🏅

[@adr0110]

10/10 🥳 💙 Take my money!!

[@CarMadDad]

Sold 😂

[@GethinJames]

Where is the front splitter? None on that car?

[@CarMadDad]

None on this one chap

[@raymondfrank9202]

good one

[@CarMadDad]

Cheers 👌

[@bispal]

I'm very conflicted over the 981 spyder. Owned mine for around 18 months. To start it does tickle all the senses but after a few months, when the exhaust wears off, its just too firm for UK roads, to the extent my feet would get flung of the pedals and my wife would beg to go in our 675LT as it rode better. As well as the suspension the power delivery is odd, it is definitely a detuned engine and you can feel the ECU reigning in the power. The exhaust farts soon become an irritation and you will long for the mechanical flat six howl without the audiesque farts and machine guns. It is a beautiful car, well made and was great for Europe. Perhaps I should have kept mine. I now have a 718 4.0 GTS coming, it feels quite a bit faster, has a more mechanical engine noise, strangely feels smaller and more nimble and most importantly has compliant suspension. The roof on the 981 spyder never bothered me, its a non issue. I'm still conflicted but overall 718 4.0, even GTS, is a better drive. Nice review 👍🏻

[@CarMadDad]

Great thoughts and input from a long term owner - thank you for the view and for sharing experiences 👌

[@bispal]

@@CarMadDad no problem , nice review. Trouble is so many cars seem fantastic on the initial 15 minute test drive only to show irritating traits later. Very difficult to pick up on a quick drive. The 981 spyder Was / is very sure footed on track though.

[@CarMadDad]

Appreciate the input chappy. Exactly why comments like these are needed ☝️

[@mihanso1]

Great comments from a long term ownership perspective, appreciate it. Regarding the exhaust burble annoyance, agreed it can get old after a while, but can it not be defeated by placing it in sport plus? That’s how it worked in my 981 Cayman GTS, amazing howl without overrun pops and bangs.

[@bispal]

@mihanso1 Hi, yes but comes with decreased traction control. I now have a 718 Spyder and it's quite a different car to the 981. Noise is too far in opposite direction BUT ride is much better and overall its a nicer car to drive. I've also driven a 987 Cayman R, too late for me as the 987 'is' my pick of the 3 and I want to try a 987 spyder next. So natural and fluid with no fakeness about it. Its a real 10/10 car.

[@PaulDC-xl2pw]

How reliable is the spyder to own?

[@CarMadDad]

Unsure chap - however I know the owner still has it and it’s a Porsche - so guess it’s solid!

[@BubuBarong]

Hi mate and thanks for the video! It's not at all a GT4 without a roof... I love it but it's not. The 718 Spyder is. Cheers from Italy!

[@CarMadDad]

Noted - and ciao 👋

[@jarronmoore8826]

You're friends must love you at parties. Lol sorry about your lil issue.

[@daveandhisdogs]

How do I contact you. I have a rather unique car I’d like you to sample. You could say it’s spyder turned up to 11. Very special thing! Dave

[@CarMadDad]

Hi Dave 👋 Thank you for viewing - getting in touch Contact info on page You can contact me on Instagram or email me [e-mail]

[@SniperVIIUS]

“ essentially a GT4 without a roof” is not a correct statement. The 982 is an actual GT car unlike the 981. THE 982 shares the same parts with the 982 GT4, the 981 GT4does not share the same parts with the Spyder. The 981 is a dressed up Boxster basically. It also has more then 40 less HP. Nothing wrong with a 981 Spyder, they’re beautiful cars and look amazing. But they’re not extra special like the 972 Spyder.

[@CarMadDad]

Yeah had this comment a few times chap - appreciate the input - apologies for the inaccuracy

[@netcrashYT]

🤫

[@CarMadDad]

[@2006Vantage]

Good video…but 718 Spyder > 981 spyder. One is a true Porsche motorsports car, the other is not. Would rather pick the original, more raw 987.2 spyder than this to add with the 718 GT car.

[@CarMadDad]

Thanks for the view and comments