Porsche Spyder Review Australia | Features, Specification, Price
- Car Reviews,
- Dec 09, 2021
Porsche decided to bring the Spyder back last year. The recent 718 Boxster range comes with a unique moniker and has become even cooler than before. The 2021 Porsche Spyder is blessed with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which makes this car more capable and better than the similar sibling 911. The price set by Porsche for this model is pretty high, so it would be a privilege to own one of these. Even though the competitor of this car provides the same performance at a lower price, Porsche is still better.
In this article, we will review the 2021 Porsche Spyder 718. The 2021 model differs from the 2020 model as it adds on Porsche's optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The price also increases, and the lowest trim also gets additional standard features. The purity of this model is not compromised, as the expected specs of the Spyder are essentially unchanged.
Porsche Spyder engine:
The 2021 Porsche Spyder comes with a naturally-aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine. This engine produces 309kW of power at 7600rpm (redline is at 8000rpm) and 420 Nm of torque between 5000 and 6800rpm. On the other hand, the latest 992 series still uses the 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six developing between 283kW and 331kW.
The engine of the Porsche 2021 is mated with six-speed manual transmission or optional seven-speed PDK automatic, which transmits power to the rear-wheel drive. The unique selling point of the 2021 Spyder is that it incorporates a cylinder deactivation for better efficiency. The Porsche Spyder claims fuel consumption of 14.3L/100km on average.
Porsche Spyder specs:
The first thing, as stated above, is that with the 2021 Porsche Spyder, you will be getting one of the most thrilling naturally-aspirated Porsche flat-six engines that have ever been built. The engine produces a thoroughly addictive noise, and this noise just gets better as you move high up on the trim level. Not only the engine but the design of the Spyder is also the talk of the town. It comes with a unique silhouette and a properly-lowered impression.
The Spyder gets plenty of standard features that include the following:
✓ Tinted bi-xenon headlights
✓ Porsche Dynamic Light System
✓ Park assist
✓ A reversing camera
✓ Auto-dimming mirrors
✓ Rain-sensing wipers
✓ Ambient interior lighting
✓ Apple CarPlay
✓ Satellite navigation
✓ Porsche Connect
✓ Digital radio
✓ Two-zone climate control
✓ Heated seats
✓ 20-inch alloy wheels in silver
In addition to that, the 2021 Porsche Spyder 718 comes with the same specialised chassis as the Cayman GT4. It also gets the full gamut of chassis aids. It enjoys the Porsche Stability Management (PSM), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) along with the mechanical rear differential lock.
Porsche Spyder interior:
The Porsche Spyder is one of the oldest models, but the 2021 Spyder does not give that old vibes. This is because this model has stunning leather, Alcantara combination upholstery. The 7.0-inch infotainment screen that the Spyder incorporates is poles apart from the 9ll's new widescreen touch display.
The cabin of the Porsche Spyder is neatly integrated. It comes beautifully encased in rich Bordeaux Red leather. The seats of the Porsche Spyder are really good. The Alcantara sports seats have a unique and functional design that is also superb bolstering and also unobtrusive. Finding the best driving position is a little difficult because the seatback is fixed. However, the driving seat can be slid forward or backward to ea of different heights and sizes drivers.
The steering wheel of the Spyder is also made from the stunning three-spoke Alcantara. Although this material is not preferred on-road cars, the one that is on the Spyder is different as it is perfectly tactile. It just does not have a drive mode dial that usually the modern models of Porsche incorporate.
Everything in the interior of the Porsche is perfect. The fit, material, and finish are of high quality. It has old-school air vents rimmed with real metal that is loved by most riders. The three-dial instrument display is also likable. It is mostly analog but has some digital functions as well. The display comes with Porsche's trademark tachometer starring front and centre.
The interior is luxurious and tasteful at the same time as its door cards are almost all Alcantara, but the top section is in leather. The metal shifter has its own design and is placed perfectly, making it easy to reach and providing a soothing feel in the palm of your hand.
The storage is not great as there is no space to keep the keys or phones. It has a centre bin, but it is small. The only good storage place is the usable glovebox and the trademark pop-out cup holders that are located on the passenger side. These holders are a consolation for coffee drinkers.
The 718 Spyder provides two boots. It is capable of swallowing two soft bags, and the boot is good for 120 litres. The roof of the Porsche does not rob the boot space of the car. In order to get out of the car, the driver requires manual operation for lowering as well as raising.
Porsche Spyder safety:
Porsche sports cars don't go for crash tests. Despite that, we can claim that it has good safety features as all versions of the 718 Spyder have six airbags and all the chassis aids that were mentioned above. It also has a substantial braking system with 380mm rotors and six-piston callipers. If you are required to plenty of track days, the Spyder can also be armed with a set of carbon-ceramic stoppers.
Porsche Spyder price:
The price of the manual Porsche Spyder is $196,800, and for the automatic Porsche Spyder, you need to have $201,890.
Pros:
✓ It has an awesome design, stance, and convertible top
✓ The engine is powerful and enough to win you over
✓ It provides a brilliantly agile and compliant ride over poor surfaces
Cons:
✓ The taller gearing affects overall driver enjoyment
✓ The semi-manual roof might not be for everyone
✓ It has a dated infotainment display
Final verdict!
The 2021 Porsche Spyder has a more stylish look and feels when compared to the 911. The reign of 911 is undeniable, and therefore the Spyder 718 Spyder will be a rarer sight on the road. Despite that, the Spyder is a car that offers a more incredible experience to its riders, and it allows taking in the full effect at 8000rpm, which is very hard to get. In short, the Spyder is a great bargain against 911 and is a worthy consideration. Before purchasing such an expensive car, get to know about all its hidden past with Quick Revs' online portal.