Nearly two weeks after Porsche unveiled the 718 T,
the automaker has introduced the new 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport. Designed to replace the previous
Cayman GT4 Clubsport, the 718 model has a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine that
produces 419 hp and 425 Nm of torque. It is
connected to a six-speed PDK transmission which features a reinforced dual mass
flywheel and an electronic control unit that has been optimized for racing.
Besides the upgraded engine, the 718 Cayman GT4
Clubsport is the first production race car to use body parts – the doors and
rear wing – constructed out of a natural-fiber composite material which are
“sourced primarily from agricultural by-products such as flax or hemp fibers.”
Porsche says the resulting components have similar weight and stiffness
properties to carbon fiber.
Thanks to these and other weight saving measures,
the car tips the scales at 1,320 kg. In order to hit that number,
the interior has been stripped of non-essential equipment. Instead, there’s a
safety cage and a single racing seat with a six-point harness.
Since the GT4 Clubsport was designed to offer
improved driveability and faster lap times, it has been equipped with a
lightweight spring-strut front suspension sourced from the 911 GT3 Cup. The
model also features a mechanical locking rear differential and a racing braking
system that has 15-inch (380 mm) steel discs at all four corners.
Two different versions will be available and the entry-level
model is the “Trackday” variant which costs € 134,000 before VAT. Designed to appeal to amateurs looking to hit the track, the car
features fixed shock absorbers, an air conditioning system as well as anti-lock
brakes and electronic stability control. Other highlights include a
roof-mounted rescue hatch, a handheld fire-extinguisher and a 80
liter fuel cell.
More experienced drivers can opt for the € 157,000 Competition model which is more track focused. It has
three-way adjustable shock absorbers, an integrated air jack system and a brake
balance system which allows the balance bias to be “infinitely adjusted between
the front and rear axle.” Buyers will also find an automatic fire extinguishing
system, a quick-release steering wheel and a larger 115 liter fuel tank. Both versions of the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport are available to order
now and the first deliveries are slated to begin in February.