Porsche has unveiled the 2024 718 Spyder RS, slated to be the most powerful version of this mid-engine roadster to-date.

That’s quite the bragging right, one made possible by the powertrain taken from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. It’s also the same engine used to drive the 911 GT3 Cup racing car– making this Spyder RS the first time the engine has been used to power an open-top, mid-engine sports car.

For those that are embedded in Porsche lore, you’ll recognize that powertrain as the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter 6-cylinder boxer engine, putting down 493 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. And if you’re unfamiliar with this powertrain, you’ll know it and not soon forget it if you get a chance to hear it scream past as it nears the top of its 9,000 RPM redline. Power is delivered through a seven-speed PDK transmission– the only transmission available for this and other RS models.

For those looking to compare, the previous 718 Spyder (notice the distinct lack of an ‘RS’) was able to deliver 414 horsepower. So, not only does this new RS boast an additional 79 horsepower, but it accelerates to 60 mph half a second quicker, taking 3.2 seconds. With enough track ahead of it, the RS will hit a top speed of 191 mph. Porsche Active Suspension Management is standard, having been lowered by 30 millimeters. Porsche Torque Vectoring with a mechanical rear limited slip differential is also standard, and a number of additional suspension upgrades will surely aid in road carving.

This RS doesn’t do too much to save weight; still, it manages to shave off 59 lbs when compared to a 2023 Porsche 718 Spyder with the optional PDK. In the realm of aerodynamics, the front is heavily consistent with the Cayman GT4 RS. The front lid is made of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP), shaped with a wide air outlet above the bumper. Two NACA ducts feed air to the brakes for better cooling, while bumper sideblades provide additional downforce. The front lip spoiler is shorter than the one found on the 718 Cayman GT4 RS; and, unlike the GT4 RS’s massive rear wing, the Spyder RS opts for a ducktail spoiler– smaller than the GT4 wing, but still larger than the regular 718 Spyder’s spoiler. The soft top is lightweight and manually-operated, weighing just over 40 lbs.

The interior is described with sporty characteristics with “nothing but functional and ergonomic essentials.” There’s a Race-Tex covered GT Sport steering wheel and standard full bucket seats, the latter made of CFRP with a carbon weave. The headrests feature an appropriate ‘Spyder RS’ logo, and the dash is covered with leather alongside various trimmings.

For a little extra flair, customers can opt for the Weissach Package. There’s an exposed carbon fiber hood, carbon fiber side scoops, and a– you guessed it– carbon fiber gurney flap on the rear spoiler. The tailpipes are finished in titanium, and for even more bling, optional magnesium wheels can be had. Expect some Weissach bits inside, too.

With the $1,450 delivery fee, the 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS will start at $162,150, set to arrive in dealers in Spring 2024.