Porsche Prototype Confirms 718 Cayman GT4 Return To Flat-Six Power
Porsche makes an about-face move when it comes to higher performance Boxster and Cayman models.
Porsche’s move to 4-cylinder power in their entry level models was a bit confusing to some. The signature soundtrack was now replaced with something a bit frumpy, while the rest of the lineup was able to carry on without such neutering.
That all seems to be changing with a test of the Boxster Spyder at the Nurburgring and a pair of Cayman GT4’s spotted here testing at Monza.
Emitting an all-too familiar song, these GT4’s have arguably put the Porsche “soul” back where it belongs. That’s not to argue against the flat-4 engines. Everything about them was measurably better than the flat-6 motors they replaced. Except the decibels, of course.
Porsche might be trying to keep customers appeased, though. A return to this power plant reminds us of a recent decision reversal. After the uproar of Porsche’s PDK-only stance on the GT3 was reversed, it seems that sometimes the company executives can still overpower the accountants.
Back to the main story here: GT4 Clubsport development seems to be well under way, with minimal camo and at-speed testing already commenced.
Set to be used in GT4 sanctioned motorsport events world-wide, this Porsche will be born with a pedigree. It’ll be up against a slew of newer turbocharged cars, Whether it is a play on the rule-book or to earn back a few Cayman fanatics is yet to be seen, but we think everyone can agree that it at least sounds like a proper Porsche again. As well, no sign of electrification or hybrid power here.
As well, this new generation will likely accomplish the prior GT4’s unique ability: appreciating in value.
Bespoke performance Porsche’s seem to have that unique ability, and the 718 GT4 looks likely to follow.