GT drop top is pure box office

A Porsche small convertible has been given the full GT treatment for the first time as Darren Cassey reports

Porsche makes some of the most desirable cars on the planet. The 911 might be the halo model, but the smaller, nimbler and more approachable Cayman, with its optimal mid-engined layout and compact dimensions, is just as sought after. Then there’s the Boxster, the entry-level sports car that fills the more leisure-focused role. Previously, the Boxster Spyder was completely separate from the Cayman models, but now they all fall under Porsche’s ‘718’ sports banner, so this new 718 Spyder is essentially a droptop version of the ultra-performance-focused Cayman GT4

- an intoxicating recipe.

WHAT’S NEW?

Under the skin, the Spyder shares its mechanicals with the Cayman GT4, making this only the second Porsche convertible with GT roots, following the 911 Speedster. That means the Spyder shares the GT4’s active suspension management system, making it 30mm lower than a standard 718, with a limited-slip differential helping get the power down. It’s also got a six-speed manual transmission, a lightweight manually operated roof, and a rear spoiler that deploys at high speed.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

There is a caveat to this drive - taking place in November, the weather was atrocious. At one point, the relentless rain did break off - just as we encountered fresh snow on tyres better suited to sunny track days. That said, the car still felt special, which is testament to just what a machine the Spyder is. It’s so sharp to respond to steering wheel inputs, the tyres revealing a real sense of urgency even on sodden tarmac, while the six-speed manual is one of the best in the business. Couple this with that glorious engine and, even driven on its tiptoes as the weather dictated, there’s enough excitement to elicit a huge grin.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

It is typically Porsche, which is to say there are plenty of lovely materials and an ergonomically perfect layout - though here there’s more of a focus on the essentials, rather than creature comforts. There’s an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and Alcantara-upholstered sports seats - upgradeable to full bucket seats on request. The lightweight ethos continues into the fabric door pulls that replace the heavier door handles, and the infotainment system that can be deleted at no cost to save weight.

THE VERDICT

There’s no two ways about it, the Porsche 718 Spyder is a special car. It just feels right from the moment you set off, with its beautifully judged manual gearbox and sonorous engine that makes you want to take the long route home - every day.