Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs GT4 RS - Same engine but quite different!

Porsche Spyder RS - Worth selling my GT4 RS?
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[@5218201a]

Owned a 987 spyder myself and I think the 2 piece roof is a brilliant design. The best thing about it is you can have the top roof up without the second piece roof at the back. In that setup you won’t be able to worried about sun, cold or rain but still able to enjoy half open top experience with engine sound and fresh air into the car

[@billnorblat4047]

I've come to the conclusion the Regular 718 Spyder is the best of them all for a B Road car.

[@888mf4]

I think the 981 Spyder is the best B road car, and great value for money. The 718 Spyder looks more modern and has better suspension set up, but the engine is too quiet.

[@waltvancourt5052]

When you remove the particular filter on the 718 the exhaust comes alive.

[@billnorblat4047]

@@888mf4 Put an exhaust on the 718 and you're in business. The 718 is a Porsche GT Car by the GT department and you can tell when you push it. It drives like a comfortable 718 GT4.

[@jonfrench7133]

Can’t believe i missed this. Brilliant comparison and great style of presenting 👍

[@Zamotto]

I am gong to swap to the Spyder RS from my GT4RS due to the bouncing on b-roads, which makes me less confident than in ny 981 GT4. I hope and think the spyder rs still is loud enough especially with the roof down. In the video, it wasn't tested above 7k where the magic happens... But a bit quieter with roof up and not full-on driving is OK on trips, especially for my better half in the passenger seat.. 😊 I am, though, a bit surprised that it is firmer than than the regular spyder, as the spring rates are the same. But stiffer bearings and perhaps anti-roll bar (and perhaps dampers) could very well leave that impression. Thanks for a good video and useful comparison! 👍

[@888mf4]

Thank you. I think you have made the right decision. The GT4 RS is a track tool and too hard for the road.

[@nicooncars4085]

Very nice review - congratulation for the work done ! One question I have always had and struggle to get an answer is whether the carbon airbox that comes with the Weissach pack does change the engine intake noise in the cabine of the Cayman ? Views and experience here ?

[@sebinko]

I think the spyder RS is louder. The way how to drive it is the bimini top on and the back part of the roof gone. the difference is in the metal roof. you get a lot of bad resonance with GT4RS in comparison to spyderRS. This resonance went away with Akrapovic back box exhaust. I can confirm, the suspension set-up is more compliant on the spyder. before you start bashing me how I can now this, I actually have both GT4RS as well as Spyder RS in my garage.

[@FreestylerAlbert]

it's louder I can confirm the Spyder RS is more loud when the top is down or when just the bimimi part is up without the back part. (I have it over 3000km by now). This test was so bad I didn't even commented under the main thread. Blaming a car it's too hardcore when it's made for track is just nonsense. Especially because year by year they're softer. 996 GT3RS and 997RS was even more firm and raw . When you want a softer car by a non RS model and it's done. But don't ruin or blame cars for being bad when they're designed for a different purpose. Like testing how an elephant climb on the tree. Same witth the top up thing he say it's how bad. So I'm pretty certain he MAYBE done it 1 or 2 times. Because the Spyder RS owners know the top up is freakin easy, the top down what sucks because sometims the position of the plastic thing on the bimimi don't let you properly close the trunk.

[@alenaalena13]

Lucky you- the dream garage! I have done 12,000kms in my GT4RS and it is an epic car despite the stiffness on the road. I have an allocation for Spyder RS but for me it will be a matter of the changeover cost. Interesting you feel the Spyder is louder - I heard that elsewhere. The resonance - cant you just close the valves?ie turning off sports exhaust I find gets rid of the droning. I think I would buy the Spyder without the useless Weissach package and lift system (it adds weight and spoiler is smaller than GT4RS) and put the money towards PCCB brakes. I cant get my favourite colour anymore - Bronze Gold Metallic. Do you have a favourite?

[@888mf4]

@@FreestylerAlbert You are wrong. It is possible to make a track focused car that is good for the road. Just take a look at the McLaren 765LT or the Ferrari 458 Speciale. The McLaren has THREE suspension settings and the Ferrari has a BUMPY road setting.

[@FreestylerAlbert]

@@alenaalena13 PCCB is pointess for Porsche GT cars when you want to use them. You can buy way better ceramic brakes from RPMtechnic which last longer, can be resurfaced at least 2 times, perform better, and cheaper than the PCCB. So when someone track his car they use the OEM iron brakes OR go for the RPMtechnic set. (hinzmotorsport also offer it in the USA)

[@FreestylerAlbert]

@@888mf4 check how many people track their 765LT and how many track their Speciale compare to the GT products. There is plenty of reason for that and not just the production numbers and because Mclaren is the most unreliable car on the planet with ferrari. Ohh the 765 LT have the overheating problem still? When I can choose between that or the suspension being too stiff on a track focused car which one should I choose? A track focused car is capable to go to the track and being pushed without any problems, and that is in the warranty. That's a track focused car. But check the really track focused mclaren 620R how many suspension settings you have. Even more stiff than any Porsche GT car. When you redesign the suspension you need a different suspension piston and external oil can, you need more electronics and you end up with more and more kg which is not needed in a track focused car especially as unsprung weight. When you compare a track focused car compare it on a track what they're designed for. Next test will be ohh this racecar have 100+ liter more storage space, and this racecar have a +1 liter more fluid tank for the windshield washer. Things needs to be compared what they're designed for. You would able to say the front grip on the 718 suck and and lack of feedback or things what really matter, what is really a problem. So no I don't agree, I don't want to see Porsche GT cars made like crap Mclarens or Ferraris , there is a reason it's Porsche.

[@benmyers767]

Thanks mark Great content. Unique opinion unfiltered in your own unique style from someone with significant ownership and driving experience / knowledge of Porsche Keep the vids coming RS 4.0 vs spyder RS next plz because why not?

[@888mf4]

I sold the GT3 RS 4.0 in September. It was time. I had it for 10 years. To be honest, the clutch was quite heavy which meant I didn't use it that often. The beauty of the GT4 RS is that it is PDK.

[@benmyers767]

@@888mf4 fair play! Sounds like you might have timed that just right

[@JoseMorales-ld6er]

Very very interesting. Thank you very much 888👍👍

[@Chartel77]

Thanks for giving me the heads up you had been at hanningfield reservoir. I keep missing you guys 🌹❤️

[@torontocannuck]

Great content as always Mark! Thank you for the comparison/review. I think the decision between with these two cars also comes down to the use case. Back roads/B roads Spyder likely makes the most sense. However for track days and back roads the 4RS for me. Both great cars and I agree the louder the better ! With all the new regulations coming down the pipe line cars are getting quieter and quieter.

[@888mf4]

Thank you. The GT4 RS suspension is designed for the track so it can be unsettling on bumpy roads. The Spyder RS is a better road car.

[@982spyder5]

@@888mf4 Good on ya for being responsive to your readers. It's unfortunate that the roof on the 4RS is stuck in the up position.

[@nikspartan]

Great review Mark & thanks as always. You helped me buy my 981 spyder in Oz & still v happy. Hard decision so I have both 4RS & new spyder coming. When you said the f’d up roof takes least 2 min, that’s normal for most great things these days. 2min max 🤣. Take care merry Xmas 🎄 brother & happy safe holidays! When in Oz visit for sure mate!

[@888mf4]

Great to hear you are still enjoying the 981 Spyder. Fantastic car.

[@davidbstetson]

Very well said indeed. Love your unique take on two amazing cars. I am leaning towards the RS Spyder. Cheers!

[@michaellambie7218]

Great Job Mark Your GT4 RS spec is phenomenal

[@888mf4]

Thank you

[@terryboy1235]

Love both of them I think the spyder with the indigo blue wheels would be outstanding, great video again brother!

[@888mf4]

Thank you. I agree, the Indigo blue magnesium alloys are very special.

[@Sonic-Boom]

The Spider for weekend fun. Top down, nice noise and grerat performance.

[@WestCoastSupercarsandClassics]

Great review Mark, we chose the 718 Spyder 6sp, it offers the manual transmission, a more practical convertible roof, and a reasonable street ride. It's a street car which CAN be enjoyed on the track, rather than a track car which is tolerable for short drives on the street. IMO the Spyders are more fun, and this is from someone who had a GT3 as well. :)

[@SiyaoLiu-yg2bk]

It's true, I love your review, it's so true, I've always loved Porsche, especially the GT4RS,that's the king of the track. The passionate sound seems to be calling the racers to conquer it

[@888mf4]

I have a GT4 RS and I share a 718 Spyder PDK with my brother. My last car was a 718 Spyder manual and before that I had a 981 Spyder. I much prefer the sound of the 981 Spyder over the 718 Spyder. That 3.8L Flat Six engine is so good. Unfortunately the 4.0 engine in the 718 Spyder is a little dull. It needs an after market exhaust for sure. However I still think the 981 Spyder is one of the best models Porsche have ever produced.

[@SiyaoLiu-yg2bk]

@@888mf4 I'm also interested in the Porsche models, especially for the comparison between the 981 Spyder and the 718 Spyder. I agree with your comments about the sound of the 981 Spyder engine, it is truly outstanding. There are so many Porsche classics. My first car in life was a Porsche

[@andygtv]

Great review, high standard as per usual 👍

[@888mf4]

Thank you!

[@888mattd]

You can have Indigo Blue wheels on the Spyder RS FYI

[@paulfrankel3857]

Quite rare , as most punters don’t spec them at £11,500!

[@CarYenta-1]

​​@@paulfrankel3857 $600 for the standard wheels in blue

[@mwar99]

You can get Indigo on the base wheels too

[@paulfrankel3857]

@@mwar99true but the magnesium wheels look

[@888mf4]

Indeed you can. They would be my choice.

[@plife911]

Looks like a great day and both amazing! Were you able to drive the SRS with the roof down in anger? I too prefer the 718 to the 911 having had both. Thanks for this video

[@888mf4]

Yes, I drove the Spyder RS with the roof down. However it was freezing outside, so we put it up. It would have been too loud to film with it down. All of the B roll is with the roof down and all the talking is done with the roof up.

[@JoseMorales-ld6er]

First to explain diference in 718 RSs. Very pleased

[@888mf4]

Very lucky to get our hands on a Spuyder RS so early

[@clubsobri]

Love the gray color on the spider. They are both beautiful, though.

[@paulreilly5987]

GT4RS for track plus GTS4.0 boxster for general touring. I have the boxster and specced it with vented seats (so good…and use them more than heated seats as I use it in the summer). OPC wouldn’t let me order a GT4RS and they had a “new” one (delivery miles) from another customer in the showroom when I picked up my boxster last summer and it was double the rrp.

[@enigmatwist6548]

Is there any scope for adjusting the pre-existing setup to make it more supple? What about retrofitting the Spyder RS suspension? The GT4 RS should be the ultimate Cayman and it seems a shame for it to be limited to just track days. Surely worth exploring since like you say the 992 is a bit big to fully take advantage of that amazeballs engine on UK roads.

[@JoseMorales-ld6er]

Very very interesting thank you so much 👏👏👏👍👍👍🙌🙌🙌🤗🤗🤗

[@xhipper5987]

Thank you so much for that review spyder rs is my dream car. I’m quite surprised it is quieter than the gt4. Do you confirm it is still quieter even with the roof down?

[@888mf4]

It is much quieter. The GT4 RS is too loud for most people though (not me).

[@carswithdavid1721]

my 2 fav Porsches, not sure which one I would choose, very difficult

[@MARKCHAPLE]

Wowsers something else ❤❤❤

[@robertgregory1927]

Very sweet!

[@rabulc]

Spyder, always convertible😮

[@astefani7363]

Easy choice for me, I ll have both 😉

[@billnorblat4047]

Ceramics, mags, and comfort seats make a big difference in making the 4rs more streetable... And that UK weather is exactly why the Spyder RS is a no go

[@888mf4]

The suspension is my biggest issue with the GT4 RS. I like the bucket seats. PCCB weren't an option on my GT4 RS due to supply issues. However I would option them on my next Porsche.

[@billnorblat4047]

@@888mf4 consider the normal 718 Spyder for the ultimate open to road car. The ride is significantly softer.

[@alenaalena13]

Very timely. I have an arctic grey GT4RS with indigo blue wheels and it looks pornographic. I have done over 12,000 kms and yes on B roads it can be very firm, but I never worried about the stability. It just is a sensational car. I have been offered an RS Spyder allocation and have a few hours to make my mind up. Part of the final decision will be what can I get for the GT4RS as a trade in as the market here in Australia has dipped. I wouldn't want to swap and find the air intake noise markedly inferior. The noise is what makes the GT4RS so special and with the roof down on the Spyder the air intakes are close to your head. What do you think is the future for each of these cars?

[@888mf4]

The GT4 RS looks better in my opinion but is too firm for the road. It is ideal on a race track. The Spyder RS will make a better road car. Ideally I would have both, but the Spyder RS suspension makes it a better road car.

[@alenaalena13]

Someone said, with the roof down, that the intake noise was even better than the GT4RS. Did you feel that? I note your comment about the lack of a need for a front nose lift, which is not only expensive, but it adds weight. What do you feel is the best colour? Until recently you could get Bronze Gold Metallic, but no longer. A wrap guy here said to buy a black car and get it wrapped in bronze gold metallic. Is that something you guys do in UK? @@888mf4

[@mqandil]

Nice Review. Thank you…I own the GT4RS and also 992 GT3 manual along with 718 spyder (manual) and I can attest to the harshness of the GT4 RS suspension hardness compared to my other cars, to the point it takes away from the overall enjoyment of this magnificent car. I have RS spyder coming this summer and I must part ways with one of the cars I own, which is going to be tough because I truly love my GT3 and my GT4RS, but I adore my 718 Spyder manual the most and it is the car that puts the biggest smile on my face, so most logical choice is to get rid of the GT4RS and mainly due to this suspension hardness. Now my local Porsche dealer suggested to install the stock Spyder RS suspension(shocks+springs) on my GT4RS to soften the GT4RS suspension which could allow me to keep it and part ways with my 718 Spyder instead. Not sure if you know the answer but have you thought about swapping your GT4RS with standard Spyder RS suspension? And do you know if it would fit and work. My Porsche local dealer thinks it should swap over with no issues and this will eliminate the biggest complaint I have against my GT4RS. My other question to you…. In your opinion….Is the Spyder RS suspension significantly softer than GT4RS to the point that makes it worth spending the extra money or do you think I am better off spending the money on a 3rd party coil over to reduce the harshness further. Please share your honest opinion given the fact you spent driving both cars back to back on English B-roads. Thanks for the review and look forward to hear your thoughts on this. Mark Qandil

[@alenaalena13]

Interesting suggestion about softening suspension on GT4RS. Wonder what it would cost. Like you I am waiting for a Spyder RS and currently have a GT4RS which has dropped in value a lot here in Australia (and 17 for sale - same as UK).

[@mqandil]

@@alenaalena13 congratulations on both cars. I am estimating U.S.$7000 for parts and labor to complete the suspension swap but probably be a little cheaper going to 3rd party coil over. I would not get discouraged about the falling prices as I think these prices will go back up again upon production suspension of all 718 next month. According to Porsche they are suspending 718 production in May 2024 to make room for the new electrics. I suspect both the 718 spyder and GT4RS may go on for couple more months.

[@PD-nz5rk]

991.2 Speedster…will check all your boxes. Happy holidays.

[@888mf4]

I do love the 991.2 Speedster. I reviewed one in Miami a few years ago. However, they are around £275,000 so a lot more money.

[@sbasuroy]

Has anyone seen Vanadium in person? Is it blue grey or grey green…or ?

[@user-ec1zx4uq9u]

Which one is more fun to drive?

[@thomsenreuters-zk2hv]

what color has the Spyder RS?

[@reecet7679]

arctic grey

[@JoseMorales-ld6er]

Agree, you can play more with 718 than 911

[@thedrivebygg]

Would love a spyder RS on my channel having just reviewed the GT4 RS.

[@jakes.5143]

First song?

[@MikeSmith-rd9fi]

easy to get insurance that covers 6 trackdays.....use them properly. wet tracks are fantastic.

[@shanescarlife]

Investment value aside, would you rather have your GT3RS 4.0, or a 4RS/ Spyder RS?

[@888mf4]

I sold my GT3 RS 4.0 as I hardly ever used it. The heavy clutch was an issue for me. The PDK in the GT4 RS and Spyder RS makes it much more useable.

[@markrhoden68]

Totally impractical maybe even pointless but god I'm glad they did ❤ I own a z4 m40i, roof down in sport plus and greabox in sport mode i thought that was a bit much but this lol just bonkers, love it. If i could afford such cars it'd be the spider, as i dont drive on a dally basis no commuting no children and i love the roof off when at all possible

[@888mf4]

If you want to upgrade, think about buying a 981 Spyder. They are fantastic and sound so good.

[@markrhoden68]

@@888mf4 problem was when I looked at a similar spec Porsche 718 of similar year 2020 and mileage 20k you're talking a 10k price hike from what I paid for my Z4 😮😖

[@CarYenta-1]

4:30 what do you mean the RS suspension isn't adjustable in firmness? That's what PASM is for.

[@alexanderhong3928]

I think Mark meant going softer than stock not necessarily firmer.

[@gurmitubi2324]

Why can’t you change to aftermarket softer shocks??

[@blakeacheson9387]

I have a gt4 rs … the button basically does nothing … can barely feel a difference

[@HondaExige1]

The weather as an excuse for not going on track? 😂 I've done 30+ UK trackdays across the past 4yrs and had rain on probably less than 5. Insurance isn't an issue, FJ, ClassicLine, etc do road policies with 'free' trackdays as I have on my GT4 and my friends on their RS'. If you don't like trackdays just say it, nothing wrong with that, to each his own. But you're missing a massive chunk of what really makes these cars special.

[@FreestylerAlbert]

just an excuse we all know :) there is a huge scene in the UK who race regularly and don't look for excuses. Wish other countries would have the same ammount of races. 100% agree with what you wrote.

[@888mf4]

I am with CHUBB and they don't offer track insurance. I am not moving as they have a multi car policy and I am insured to drive any car up to any value. Something a lot of insurance companies don't offer. As for the weather, I am sure you would agree that Florida is better for track days than the UK!!

[@andrewstever5728]

Same price. Damn, very hard choice

[@mattyp3119]

Can't even get track insurance in Canada it's nearly impossible. When you can it's 10-15% of the entire cars value in a single day

[@982spyder5]

Canada was once such a great place. SO you'd have to pay 10k+ insurance for 1 day at the track? Smart money would insure you for half of that and be thrilled.

[@flat6gts]

@@982spyder5It’s about $1k CAD for a day’s track insurance, and there is quite a bit of paperwork that needs to be done (like getting the track organizer to apply such that you can buy insurance on the lap day, and so forth)

[@manishmkt]

He took picture of GT4 RS because it has matt PPF and it's a STUNNER.

[@888mf4]

hahahaha! Thank you!

[@1ROCKY89]

Good review very interesting. My garage is a 987.1 Cayman S manual and Boxster GTS 2.5L PDK and it’s really hard to say which one I would wish to upgrade. Sure would be nice to test drive them. Happy Christmas 888

[@vikd4292]

spyder RS all day. you get a top level car and easiest to drive on regular roads

[@jameswilkinson150]

I’d take the Spyder all day every day.

[@drbobs8267]

As much as I love the Spyder, I would never own a car with a manual roof. That being said, I don’t like the HUGE wing on the GT4RS or the cacophonous noise in the cabin at high RPM’s. So, I wouldn’t want either of these. I’d take one if given to me, drive it for a few miles and sell it. I’d personally prefer the Boxster GTS 4.0 over either of these and pocket the difference.

[@888mf4]

Boxster GTS 4.0 is a nice car if you don't want the GT3 engine in your Spyder

[@drbobs8267]

@@888mf4 don’t need that much horsepower

[@blakeacheson9387]

I have a gt4 rs … go drive one and you’ll change your mind … the gts 4.0 feels so underwhelming back to back

[@drbobs8267]

@@blakeacheson9387 not doubting that the gt4rs is a more powerful or thrilling vehicle, just not for me personally. 20 years ago maybe.

[@curtdragon]

I'm curious how the "share with your brother" works.

[@888mf4]

We live close to each other so often go out on weekends in two cars and then swap.

[@curtdragon]

@@888mf4 that's cool. If I move closer to my nephew we definitely should do something like that

[@bellastaffypearmapearman2666]

You can just pull into a petrol statio n and put the roof up /down so you dont get wet😂

[@888mf4]

If you are on a motorway and it starts raining you are in trouble! Happened to me a few times in my 964 Speedster.

[@davidf5449]

The track insurance talk is a sorry excuse. Just say you don't track the car. Sexy car nonetheless

[@DasCayman]

Prefer a 987 Spyder w/ buckets and manual. The new ones with 500HP are too fast to have fun on backroads. Cheers

[@888mf4]

I prefer the 981 Spyder to the 987 Spyder but both a great cars and great value for money. I tested the 987 Spyder in Canada in 2022.

[@curtdragon]

"Every enthusiast waiting for?" No. Maybe people who want open top yes. But that's not the majority

[@888mf4]

Have you done a poll to see how many people in the world like convertible cars??

[@curtdragon]

@@888mf4 have you? 😆😆 Sales figures work just as well

[@billnorblat4047]

That roof is a deal breaker. We drive faster than 120 regularly

[@888mf4]

The roof is not fantastic. I think you need a garage so that you can just keep the roof down whenever you're not driving.

[@gabrielbarcellos1036]

Sinceramente se o Spyder RS fosse manual seria melhor que o S/T

[@brucemackenzie4952]

Would never have a convertible, top will be trash in a couple of years.

[@GethinJames]

There is no Boxster Spyder. It's a 718 Spyder or a 718 Spyder RS. Mistaking an RS for a non RS is not all bad. The Spyder I think is the best looking car Porsche makes currently... it's must better looking that the GT4 or GT4 RS.

[@888mf4]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

[@WFORacer]

I’m a convertible guy, but that top is shit. I prefer to press one switch automation. 😂😂😂

[@hbullock]

Obviously you’re not familiar with Florida weather. lol

[@888mf4]

I spent around 3 months a year in Florida from 2017 - 2020 and did lots of filming there too. You’ll see the 991 GT2 RS review filmed in Pompano Beach. I know it is tropical but it’s way better than London!!

[@hbullock]

@@888mf4 Ha, I suppose so. I grew up there, and flash afternoon storms were a very real thing, depending on time of year. By the time you got the spyder rs top on, your car would be half full. :) But then, I have one on order anyway. It’s just too good a car not to! Cheers.

[@NobbyScott]

can't believe the amount of people that have specced those shitty Audi wheels

[@randalljohnson7984]

These cars, especially the GT4 RS, are made with the track in mind, but streetable enough to drive to the track and home again. Not going to go on the track because it’s wet, you don’t have the insurance, blah, blah, blah. Excuses, excuses…

[@888mf4]

Not excuses. I don’t like driving on the track. Very simple.

[@randalljohnson7984]

I get it. Enjoy the drive!!

[@terrybilly9967]

The GT4RS is the Best car on This Planet for me…

[@888mf4]

I think it is a great car. Just let down by ultra firm suspension.

[@MrRoyck10]

Midship engine is far superior to rear like a rabbit is to a rat!

[@waltvancourt5052]

Get Eye glasses pal. : ) Neither RS is worth twice the money of the regular 718 gt4/ spyder.

[@cartergarnon6299]

The GT4RS would have to be the pick here because everything good about the Spyder RS is noticeably better in the nonRS Spyder. Buy the 718 Spyder, invest the money you saved into BTC, and in 9 months you’ll be able to buy anything you want.

[@888mf4]

Having the GT3 engine is the GT4 RS or Spyder RS transforms both cars

[@garyuk761]

OK your voice is far to squeaky

[@RuiDuartept]

You lost me at Boxster Spyder

[@johnnyedwards1478]

This was a horrible review. Painful to watch. He spent the entire time talking about stuff nobody cares about. Plus how about handling? Slow talking. Babbling. Horrible editing. You couldn’t even tell what car he was in because the camera kept jumping and showing the wrong car. Also who says they like a car better because of a color? you can get the Indigo Blue wheels on the Spyder RS As well So that just further shows that you don’t know what you’re talking about.