Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Compare the Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS. The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is £15,000 cheaper. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is 0.3s quicker to 60mph. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is priced from £140,000, powered by a 4.0L Flat-6, producing 493 hp, with 450 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.4 s, a top speed of 191 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is priced from £145,000, powered by a 3.6L e-turbo flat-six T-Hybrid, producing 534 hp, with 610 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.1 s, a top speed of 194 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
The Porsche 718 Spyder RS offers a 125-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 23 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS offers a 135-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 26 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is £15,000 cheaper than its rival, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS costs less in annual maintenance (£1,400 versus £1,500), the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is the more fuel-efficient choice, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS has 63 L fuel tank.
Driving Character: Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its mid-engine configuration and the installation of the 4.0L flat-six from the GT3. The chassis is a masterpiece of precision, featuring RS-specific suspension geometry that rewards technical accuracy. The steering feel is sharp and communicative, offering a visceral connection to the tarmac that few modern roadsters can replicate. While it is certainly capable on a track, the engine note and open-top architecture make it a raw experience on winding B-roads. The gearshifts are lightning fast, ensuring the powertrain remains at the heart of the driving sensation throughout every spirited corner.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS uses a 3.6-litre flat-six with an electrically assisted exhaust turbocharger and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed PDK. The combustion engine supplies 357 kW and 570 Nm; combined system output is 398 kW and 610 Nm. All-wheel drive, rear-axle steering and PASM form part of the published chassis specification.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six; open-top configuration amplifies mechanical engine and intake sounds; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines a 3.6-litre electrically turbocharged flat-six with T-Hybrid assistance and all-wheel drive.. Characteristic of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Balanced mid-engine layout; steering geometry provides agile turn-in response for spirited driving. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Targa roof mechanism; chassis rigidity remains high despite the open-top architectural change. In outright terms it is 493 hp against 534 — a 41 hp gap — and the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS reaches 60 mph 0.3s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Inside, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS prioritises weight saving over luxury. The carbon fibre bucket seats provide immense support, while the use of fabric door pulls and minimal sound insulation highlights its motorsport heritage. Build quality is characteristically high, though the cabin environment is undeniably sparse compared to a standard 718. The infotainment system is functional rather than flashy, providing necessary data without distracting from the task of driving. Despite the lack of plush padding, the driver-focused ergonomics remain impeccable, creating a purposeful space that reflects the uncompromising nature of the vehicle’s design philosophy.
The cabin of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is dominated by the iconic Targa bar, which provides a unique open-air experience while maintaining structural integrity. The interior is finished to a high standard, with premium materials and the intuitive, driver-centric layout that characterises the 992 generation. While the Targa bar creates a stylish aesthetic, it does restrict rear visibility somewhat. The technology, including the standard Bose audio, is well-integrated and provides a modern feel. It is a sophisticated, high-quality environment that balances luxury with the functional needs of a performance-oriented driver.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Focused instrument layout; high-quality material finishes maintain the premium feel of Porsche; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Luxury ergonomics; tech-focused cabin environment balances modern comfort with driver engagement features. Characteristic of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Supportive bucket seats; cabin architecture prioritises driver connectivity while top is retracted. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: High-quality leather and trim; interior refinement provides a quiet environment when closed.
Daily Usability: Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Daily utility is clearly secondary to performance in the Porsche 718 Spyder RS, yet it remains surprisingly manageable. The inclusion of a nose lift system as standard allows for navigation over urban speed bumps and steep inclines without damaging the front splitter. Storage is adequate for a weekend getaway, with both a front boot and a rear luggage compartment available for essential items. Ingress and egress require some physical agility due to the low-slung bucket seats and side sills, but for owners who accept the compromise of a manual roof operation, it serves as a usable roadster.
Practicality is a major strength of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS, as it offers the security of all-wheel drive and the joy of an open top. This combination makes it a genuinely usable car for all seasons, functioning perfectly as a daily driver. The rear seats offer occasional space for children or extra storage, and the front trunk is surprisingly capacious. While the roof mechanism does impact boot space when fully retracted, the overall design remains very user-friendly. It is a refined, comfortable cruiser that does not sacrifice its sporty character in the pursuit of daily usability.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Front and rear storage; 125L cargo capacity remains usable for short-distance trips; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The manufacturer technical sheet lists 135 litres of front luggage volume; rear stowage is a separate figure.. Characteristic of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: 110 mm clearance provides adequate height; compact exterior dimensions aid navigating city streets. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: 110 mm clearance ensures daily usability; ride quality absorbs common road imperfections well. that means 125 litres of boot space against 135, and everyday running costs that favour the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS at the pumps.
Ownership: Porsche 718 Spyder RS vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Ownership of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its exclusivity and potential for appreciation. As a model with limited production, it sits in a secure position within the enthusiast market. While annual maintenance costs are high, the support provided by the Porsche Motorsport division offers peace of mind for specialized mechanical needs. Insurance premiums will be substantial, and the high purchase price requires careful consideration, but the prospect of long-term residual strength remains strong. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents a peak of internal combustion performance within the Porsche stable.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines the Targa roof system with the newer T-Hybrid powertrain. Service requirements must be checked against the exact model year and market. Its electric turbocharger and transmission-integrated motor distinguish its servicing needs from the earlier GTS. Warranty and repair costs depend on the applicable contract, vehicle history and market.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Enthusiast collector market; naturally aspirated flat-six engines maintain strong value retention; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Reliable Porsche drivetrain; servicing is supported by a comprehensive dealer network infrastructure. Characteristic of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Reliable dealer support network; scheduled maintenance remains manageable through official channels. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Strong resale market; combination of Targa style and GTS performance maintains desirability. On the wallet the two diverge at £140,000 versus £145,000 — a £5,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £1,400 against £1,500.