Ladies and gentlemen, it’s the end of an era. Porsche is giving the internal combustion 718 Cayman and Boxster the boot. That’s right, the cars that have been the heartbeat of Porsche’s mid-engine lineup since 1996 are set to drive off into the sunset in 2025, replaced by their all-electric counterparts.
Porsche’s production maestro, Albrecht Reimold, delivered the sad news in an interview with Automobilwoche. This isn’t a story about dwindling sales or lack of interest — oh no, these beauties are still flying off the lots. The move is to make room for the electric versions, which are slated to hit the road in 2025.
But before we get too teary-eyed, let’s not forget the grand finale: the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS. This bad boy is the last of its kind, the ultimate swan song for gas-powered 718s. It’s a roadster version of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS coupe, sharing the same high-revving, mid-mounted 4.
0-liter flat-six engine that’s also found in the 911 GT3. This beast cranks out 493 horsepower and hits a redline at a screaming 9,000 RPM. That’s piston-pumping action at 27,000 times per minute.
Air intakes just behind the driver’s and passenger’s shoulders amplify the symphony of the naturally aspirated engine. Power is channeled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with paddle shifters at the ready for manual control. Related Story: 191 MPH Spyder RS Designed for the Track The Spyder RS is designed for the track, with ven.