It’s no longer a secret that Porsche will shoehorn the 911 GT3’s naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six into the upcoming Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder. While we still don’t know exactly when either of those mid-engine delights will be revealed (a good guess would be Geneva for at least one), Autocar has managed to gather a few more details about both cars. First off, a six-speed manual will come standard while the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox will be optional for those wanting to maximize track performance times.
Porsche can’t allow a supposed “lesser model” to outdo the 911 GT3, so that engine will be slightly detuned from 493 hp to around 425 hp. Considering the 718 Boxster is already lighter than the 911, we doubt anyone will complain. Speaking of lightweight, the Spyder especially requires a number of weight-saving methods in order to achieve Porsche’s desired power-to-weight ratio. Problem is, any roadster/convertible weighs more than its coupe counterpart, but Porsche has experience overcoming this. The Boxster Spyder has always been the feather light, end of the generation ultimate variant for a number of years.
As such, the 718 Boxster’s electric folding hardtop is a goner; that mechanism system, impressive as it is, is simply too heavy. Instead, the familiar Spyder “tent top” will be utilized. Convenience features such as air conditioning and a radio will also be absent, though they could be optional. Sound deadening materials will also be removed, and this is actually a smart thing because Spyder buyers will naturally want to hear as much of the open road as possible. A set of Michel Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires will come standard in order for the new Boxster Spyder to be one of the best-handling cars Porsche has ever built. It’ll certainly be the best-handling Boxster so far.
Overall exterior styling, save for the top, will be very similar to the new 718 Cayman GT4. However, the latter will be equipped with a large rear wing because, since it’s a coupe, will be considered even more hardcore.
