981 vs 718 GT4 - for the same money? - Page 4 - Boxster/Cayman - PistonHeads UK

Hi everyone, First time posting here, I’m in the market for a GT4 which would be my first Porsche. I know this topic has been done to death but with prices overlapping on both generations now, it has made the choice more difficult for me! I live in Scotland and would be using the car for road trips (NC500 and across to mainland Europe) rather than track days. I know objectively the 718 is faster but that doesn’t come into the equation for me as I’m not going to be chasing lap times, it’s more about the experience. My heart says go for the 981 as it was the original GT4 and sounds better without OPF’s. Although my head says I would be mad not to get a manual 718 as it is a 4 year newer car with updated tech (CarPlay, reversing camera etc) for pretty much the same price - around the £70k mark. Without having driven either car it is difficult to make an informed decision. Would love to hear some feedback from anyone who has owned/experienced both cars. Thanks!

I had a 981 GT4 and loved it but now for the same money it's a total no brainer to take the 718 every day of every week

The clutch on the 718 is also lighter. Overall I think the 718 is better unless you want the noise above everything else. Might be biased since I have the 718 gt4.

I would buy the best example for the money, you will love both so choose on condition and the deal imo.

jay2000 said: The clutch on the 718 is also lighter. Overall I think the 718 is better unless you want the noise above everything else. Might be biased since I have the 718 gt4. Thanks for the reply, the sound is my main concern with the 718. Again, without having spent any time with the cars in person it is difficult to say but from a bit of YouTube research the difference in sound appears to be quite substantial! Do you feel your 718 makes a good enough sound for a GT Porsche? It would be a weekend/trip car rather than daily driver so a heavier clutch in a 981 wouldn’t be too much of a problem.

GT3Manthey said: I had a 981 GT4 and loved it but now for the same money it's a total no brainer to take the 718 every day of every week Thanks for the reply, is this based on performance or just you feel the 718 in general is a better car than the 981 all round? Thanks!

RM93 said: Thanks for the reply, the sound is my main concern with the 718. Again, without having spent any time with the cars in person it is difficult to say but from a bit of YouTube research the difference in sound appears to be quite substantial! Do you feel your 718 makes a good enough sound for a GT Porsche? It would be a weekend/trip car rather than daily driver so a heavier clutch in a 981 wouldn’t be too much of a problem. It sounds like your heart is set on the 981 so I would go for that. I'm with you on this one. The other day when I was walking along a street, a 981 was just pulling off and I got that tingly feeling hearing that throaty engine which I hadn't heard for a while. Those old feelings of wanting one all came flooding back. The timing and finances meant I never did own one but the desire has not gone.

I have a 718 GT4 and despite what people say about the noise, I think it sounds great inside the car. You’ve also got the higher rev limit of 8k in the 718. I love it! Biggest criticism would be ground clearance at the front - I really wish nose lift had been an option.

How about this that popped up at one of my local indies. https://brentmealin.com/cars/porsche-cayman-gt4/ Not sure where that has come from but it’s a ridiculously low mileage. First reg 30/01/2016 as GC65WDY. First reg Isle of Man 26/02/2018. 104 miles! Must have been trailered everywhere. Bonkers. Edited by bigmowley on Friday 9th February 17:43

718 with the OPF’s replaced sounds fantastic 👍

I've owned my 981 GT4 (Clubsport pack car) for almost 4 years now and I don't think I'm going to sell it anytime soon. If I were looking for a GT4 now I would probably go the 718 GT4 PDK route. The manual box is great and don't be put off by the constant 'the gearing is too long'. You won't be driving there car at 10/10ths on the road. The only time the long gearing is a challenge is on track. if you are going to track the car a lot I would consider a 718 GT4 PDK. However, the 981 is just as much fun on track. Also, I wouldn't change my 981 for a 718, and thankfully I track a 500bhp/ton track car and my GT4 is purely used on road.

RM93 said: Thanks for the reply, is this based on performance or just you feel the 718 in general is a better car than the 981 all round? Thanks! I did 7k miles in my 981 which was a combination of road and track days . I never found it too hard in any way as I'd always been used to cars like GT3's and even an Exige S2S. Ive owned many P cars ( north of 10) so I'd say I've experienced lots of the variants. I think if you're wanting an everyday car plus a few track days per year then the 718 is the better bet plus you can always go PDK in the 718 Edited by GT3Manthey on Friday 9th February 19:36

I have owned and tracked both variants of GT4. I loved the 981 as a car but didn’t like the engine tune which in my opinion drives like a high performance diesel, flat torque curve, not particularly good at high revs etc etc. I preferred the 4.0L engine which is much nicer but didn’t really like the 718 car as a package. My main gripes with the 718 is the road noise and the quality of the engine sound post GPF. Great if you are a connoisseur of belt noise and general whines. I had both manual and PDK incidentally. The PDK for me is vastly better. So I am no help at all really! As others have said drive both if possible and see what works for you. I also had a Cayman R for many years which I kept whilst I had all the GT4s and as a package I found it a nicer car especially at almost half the price. Lovely steering, lovely engine, lovely car

Yep the 718 has the way superior engine with 8k rev limit v the 981 which is basically a detuned non GT lower rev Carrera S lump with substantial torque hole rather dire economy and glacial warm up cycle although it does sound ok at relatively low speeds. Nice clutch action though which has more weighting than the rather light 718 ( similar to the 991.2 GT3). The engine noise on the gpf 718 is all about the induction noise across the rev range and not external exhaust noise which is not far off the 991.2 GT3 in terms of quality. Some have done simple and inexpensive adjustments to the exhaust valves openings and are easy to do if you so wish. Bear in mind you would be buying a car roughly twice the age of the 718 if you bought a 981. Yep there are more 718s around with pdk but manual numbers are about the same v the 981. Folks claim the steering is better in the 981 but I haven't found much difference and may be more down to tyre differences across various cars. As ever the best advice would be to drive both cars to see which you prefer they are both great packages at the money in their own way btw. For the record owned a 981 GT4 and 981 Spyder together with a 718 GT4 currently....all from new. My 1 owner Guards Red 4k mile 2021 model 718 GT4 manual (carbon Spyder buckets extended leather red stitching carbon interior package chrono sat plat wheels red calipers FPSH + full Porsche warranty etc etc) will be for sale in a few weeks time btw to make way for my incoming new 4RS.

I've driven both, and currently have a 981 GT4 and Cayman 718 GTS 4.0. The 718 GT4 is faster, and has fewer holes in the torque curve, but I somehow love it less. The GTS 4.0 is probably the quicker car of my two, and has the lighter clutch and more comfortable control/cabin feel of the 718 GT4. All of them are supremely capable road cars, but the 981 GT4 id the least refined. Ignore comments around fuel consumption. Yes, the 981 GT4 is thirstier, but in real world conditions, only by 1 or 2 mpg. It also doesn't make weird growling noises a couple of minutes into the warm up cycle. Or shunt weirdly in slow traffic. I'm guessing that's all about fulfilling emissions requirements in the later cars. But if I could only have one? 981 GT4 every time. It's visceral, noisy, rattly, and kind of a skunkworks special, rather than an actual fully designed and developed road car. That makes me laugh every time I turn the ignition key. Just the best idiotic plaything that you can go to work in, ever. Like a Lotus, but with less lively steering, and without all the downsides. I was offered a quick allocation for a new 718 GT4 this time last year. I could have done it, but it meant moving my 981 GT4 onwards. When push came to shove, I just didn't feel like giving the keys to anyone else. I've bought the GTS 4.0 since, and I love it. But the 981 GT4 is the one, no matter how heavy the clutch pedal (and it really isn't that bad). It makes me smile every time I drive it. Liam

av185 said: Yep the 718 has the way superior engine with 8k rev limit v the 981 which is basically a detuned non GT lower rev Carrera S lump with substantial torque hole rather dire economy and glacial warm up cycle although it does sound ok at relatively low speeds. Nice clutch action though which has more weighting than the rather light 718 ( similar to the 991.2 GT3). The engine noise on the gpf 718 is all about the induction noise across the rev range and not external exhaust noise which is not far off the 991.2 GT3 in terms of quality. Some have done simple and inexpensive adjustments to the exhaust valves openings and are easy to do if you so wish. Bear in mind you would be buying a car roughly twice the age of the 718 if you bought a 981. Yep there are more 718s around with pdk but manual numbers are about the same v the 981. Folks claim the steering is better in the 981 but I haven't found much difference and may be more down to tyre differences across various cars. As ever the best advice would be to drive both cars to see which you prefer they are both great packages at the money in their own way btw. For the record owned a 981 GT4 and 981 Spyder together with a 718 GT4 currently....all from new. My 1 owner Guards Red 4k mile 2021 model 718 GT4 manual (carbon Spyder buckets extended leather red stitching carbon interior package chrono sat plat wheels red calipers FPSH + full Porsche warranty etc etc) will be for sale in a few weeks time btw to make way for my incoming new 4RS. The red works well on the GT4 as it matches the brake callipers too . Looks a lovely spec car

I had a 2014 981S which I absolutely adored and would have kept forever. In immaculate condition, lovely spec with low mileage. Only by chance I got a build slot for a MY2023 718 GT4 so took it. The GT4 is awesome but my point being is they are both amazing cars to experience. The whole feel and enjoyment of them I find magnificent. As said before drive the cars you like the spec, price and look of and you will work it out. I moved to the 718 GT4 as I could get it in PDK version and it was the last of the production for it.

Thanks for the replies everyone, seems most people are leaning towards the newer car, although still a lot of love for the 981! PDK isn’t an option for me on the 718 purely from a financial point of view, I don’t want to break the £70k budget so it’s purely manual 718 vs 981. The solution is definitely to drive both cars although this doesn’t appear to be easy living in Scotland! I visited a nearby OPC last weekend to have a look at some 718’s, I didn’t even suggest a test drive and the sales person was pretty quick to mention that they never let people test drive their GT cars as they already know whether they want it or not. There aren’t any good independents up here with GT4’s either and not a single 981 GT4 for sale in the country! Hopefully a few more come to market and I’ll be able to experience them both soon

LiamH66 said: I've driven both, and currently have a 981 GT4 and Cayman 718 GTS 4.0. The 718 GT4 is faster, and has fewer holes in the torque curve, but I somehow love it less. The GTS 4.0 is probably the quicker car of my two, and has the lighter clutch and more comfortable control/cabin feel of the 718 GT4. All of them are supremely capable road cars, but the 981 GT4 id the least refined. Ignore comments around fuel consumption. Yes, the 981 GT4 is thirstier, but in real world conditions, only by 1 or 2 mpg. It also doesn't make weird growling noises a couple of minutes into the warm up cycle. Or shunt weirdly in slow traffic. I'm guessing that's all about fulfilling emissions requirements in the later cars. But if I could only have one? 981 GT4 every time. It's visceral, noisy, rattly, and kind of a skunkworks special, rather than an actual fully designed and developed road car. That makes me laugh every time I turn the ignition key. Just the best idiotic plaything that you can go to work in, ever. Like a Lotus, but with less lively steering, and without all the downsides. I was offered a quick allocation for a new 718 GT4 this time last year. I could have done it, but it meant moving my 981 GT4 onwards. When push came to shove, I just didn't feel like giving the keys to anyone else. I've bought the GTS 4.0 since, and I love it. But the 981 GT4 is the one, no matter how heavy the clutch pedal (and it really isn't that bad). It makes me smile every time I drive it. Liam Good feedback. I was in a modded 987s and have since owned a Sport410 Evora and currently in an S1 Exige. I've been contemplating getting back to Porsche as the Exige is a bit too one dimensional and 981 GT4 was top of my list. Your comments are encouraging...When I had my 987 a friend had a 981 GTS and to be honest a found it a bit big, the steering too light, and in general I felt a bit to insulated/isolated from the road vs my old car.. I'm hoping a 981 GT4 is rawer and feels more connected than 981 GTS?

Edmundo2 said: Good feedback. I was in a modded 987s and have since owned a Sport410 Evora and currently in an S1 Exige. I've been contemplating getting back to Porsche as the Exige is a bit too one dimensional and 981 GT4 was top of my list. Your comments are encouraging...When I had my 987 a friend had a 981 GTS and to be honest a found it a bit big, the steering too light, and in general I felt a bit to insulated/isolated from the road vs my old car.. I'm hoping a 981 GT4 is rawer and feels more connected than 981 GTS? I’ve come from 6 Lotus on the trot including 2 S1s and a V6 410. I’d echo Liam’s comments - the steering isn’t as good as a Lotus but I still find it to be very good plus there's many things that are as good if not better (than the V6) which is still a derivative of the 111 platform. Control weights are perfect, including the clutch which I don’t find too heavy, just ‘meaty’. In a weird way it reminds me of an S1 with the 718 being equivalent to an S2 Just feels a special car to me and, for once, I’m not considering moving it on and want to keep it.

The early 718 gt4 manual cars are starting to look good value at a retail price of 70k Even if you did pay early 70s can’t see you loosing much than historic levels of porsche depreciation over 2 years. I enjoyed my gt4 for time I was able to use it, just be aware the front sits very low and it’s not great with approach angle due to the longer overhang on the front splitter.

Youforreal. said: I’ve a 981 gt4 and I know the bottom trim is removable when scuffed up too much, is the 718 splitter is not the same, be a shame to rule out a car over that. So you can't replace the front splitter on the 718?

GT4RS said: The early 718 gt4 manual cars are starting to look good value at a retail price of 70k Even if you did pay early 70s can’t see you loosing much than historic levels of porsche depreciation over 2 years. I enjoyed my gt4 for time I was able to use it, just be aware the front sits very low and it’s not great with approach angle due to the longer overhang on the front splitter. I’ve a 981 gt4 and I know the bottom trim is removable when scuffed up too much, is the 718 splitter not the same, be a shame to rule out a car over that. Edited by Youforreal. on Saturday 10th February 18:02

GT3Manthey said: Youforreal. said: I’ve a 981 gt4 and I know the bottom trim is removable when scuffed up too much, is the 718 splitter is not the same, be a shame to rule out a car over that. So you can't replace the front splitter on the 718? Not sure, that’s what I was asking, I think that centre section is replaceable on the 718 gt4, looks like it would be more expensive than the 981 trim though as it looks more substantial.

GT4RS said: The early 718 gt4 manual cars are starting to look good value at a retail price of 70k Even if you did pay early 70s can’t see you loosing much than historic levels of porsche depreciation over 2 years. I enjoyed my gt4 for time I was able to use it, just be aware the front sits very low and it’s not great with approach angle due to the longer overhang on the front splitter. This is exactly my dilemma, the 718’s are looking incredible value compared to 981’s. Do you think this means 981’s are due to come down? I’ve noticed a lot of 981’s currently for sale have been on the market for 6 months or longer. Possibly dealers having paid a higher price last year and not wanting to take a loss? To me if feels like there should be a £15-20k difference between both generations rather than the £5k or so we’re seeing just now. Would be interesting to know dealer trade prices on both models!

RM93 said: GT4RS said: The early 718 gt4 manual cars are starting to look good value at a retail price of 70k Even if you did pay early 70s can’t see you loosing much than historic levels of porsche depreciation over 2 years. I enjoyed my gt4 for time I was able to use it, just be aware the front sits very low and it’s not great with approach angle due to the longer overhang on the front splitter. This is exactly my dilemma, the 718’s are looking incredible value compared to 981’s. Do you think this means 981’s are due to come down? I’ve noticed a lot of 981’s currently for sale have been on the market for 6 months or longer. Possibly dealers having paid a higher price last year and not wanting to take a loss? To me if feels like there should be a £15-20k difference between both generations rather than the £5k or so we’re seeing just now. Would be interesting to know dealer trade prices on both models! You’ll always get folk who like one or other, don’t think you’ll never see anything like 20k difference on a like for like 981/718 gt4 in my opinion. Never know though.

RM93 said: This is exactly my dilemma, the 718’s are looking incredible value compared to 981’s. Do you think this means 981’s are due to come down? I’ve noticed a lot of 981’s currently for sale have been on the market for 6 months or longer. Possibly dealers having paid a higher price last year and not wanting to take a loss? To me if feels like there should be a £15-20k difference between both generations rather than the £5k or so we’re seeing just now. Would be interesting to know dealer trade prices on both models! When the 981 GT4 came out it was the car all Cayman lovers wanted Porsche to build and at the price point it was an utter bargain. Also at that time you had people fighting over GT3 allocation so it drove prices up. I know someone that paid £105k for a 981 GT4 CS used car so 25k over list with full spec including PCCB. As we know lots has changed recently but i'd say the GT4 at current price points ( both variants) are a phenomenal buy. The only one caveat is that you now have the 4.0 GTS coming onto the used market which is more of an everyday Cayman and yet can be used for the occasional track day and also offers PDK. Times have changed. Buy the car you want and intend to keep and forget the depreciation. Life is short !

I enjoyed my gt4 for time I was able to use it, just be aware the front sits very low and it’s not great with approach angle due to the longer overhang on the front splitter. [/quote] Definitely mine couldn’t make it up my admittedly steep drive which ruined it for me. For context 997, 991 T and 991.2 GT3 all fine if careful.

I’m pretty sure that the front black plastic piece can be replaced fairly cheaply if needed but it is still one of the biggest drawbacks of the car if I’m honest. In terms of pricing, I’m obviously biased being an owner but I just can’t see them dropping much further than the level that they are currently at. On a plus, hopefully the fact that they are more accessible now means that we will see people out using the more, trackdays etc.

718 front spoiler is cheap, OPC just replaced mine for me at £200 all in.

I test drove both before opting for a 981. The 718 just wasn't as much of an occasion to drive - I'm sure flat out it's a quicker and more capable car - but it left me a bid cold. I test drove it twice just to make sure. With the 981 I'd decided to buy it after about 500m of the test drive!

RM93 said: This is exactly my dilemma, the 718’s are looking incredible value compared to 981’s. Do you think this means 981’s are due to come down? I’ve noticed a lot of 981’s currently for sale have been on the market for 6 months or longer. Possibly dealers having paid a higher price last year and not wanting to take a loss? To me if feels like there should be a £15-20k difference between both generations rather than the £5k or so we’re seeing just now. Would be interesting to know dealer trade prices on both models! I've just bought a used 718 4.0 GTS which I'd initially discounted due to price and had been focusing on 981/987 but the delta between a good late 981 and good early (2021) 718 is quite small compared to the age gap between the two so I found the extra cash. The question is will 718 prices push down 981 prices which have been stubbornly solid for several years or are 981 prices propping up 718 prices? I think the frequent price hikes over the last couple of years are perhaps helping keep used prices high. One thing is for certain the folks who got in early doors are the winners.

Isn't the 981 GT4 also rarer than the 718 GT4? besides being the first GT4?

I’m very happy with my last build slot 718 GT4, would not swap it for anything. Fully loaded mid engine noisy beautiful thing of beauty

Augustash said: I’m very happy with my last build slot 718 GT4, would not swap it for anything. Fully loaded mid engine noisy beautiful thing of beauty Very nice . Did you opt for manual or PDK ?

moonigan said: I've just bought a used 718 4.0 GTS which I'd initially discounted due to price and had been focusing on 981/987 but the delta between a good late 981 and good early (2021) 718 is quite small compared to the age gap between the two so I found the extra cash. The question is will 718 prices push down 981 prices which have been stubbornly solid for several years or are 981 prices propping up 718 prices? I think the frequent price hikes over the last couple of years are perhaps helping keep used prices high. One thing is for certain the folks who got in early doors are the winners. I think the GTS 4.0 is a cracking car and as I mentioned above, I think with that car as an option now then some that would have gone down the gt4 route have opted for the GTS. Check out the auto video with Steve Sutcliffe on the GTS.

I think early manual 718 look cracking value at the mo , the 981s are just overpriced and I can't imagine many are selling, the price difference should be considerably more, the fact that it's rarer does not mean that it automatically carries a price premium especially if there is better cars for the same money, genuinely in your position the 718 is a no brainer. As already mentioned the 981 engine is lacking, I recall when I had mine in 2015 I described it like a big lumpy diesel engine, for me it just didn't rev free enough at the top, the only place I think the 981 scores points is the exhaust noise but there are so many trade offs just to buy one over a 718. If I was to go with any 981 model I would pick the GTS I prefered the 3.4 to the 3.8 hands down it had the soundtrack , wanted to rev and was mega on fuel , when I owned mine it was most economical car I owned ! The 4.0 motor is a peach and combines the best of the 3.4 and 3.8 just with more everywhere, not the best exhaust note granted but that is the OPFS muting things, it does have great induction noise though and if you have not previously owned a 981 to compare it to it prob isn't so bad, I have tried all sorts to replicate the 981 sound track but it just won't, I came out of a 3.4 straight into the 4.0 so for me noise was a big miss, I have had the collars wedged open, tried a different back box and currently have mine now back to standard as from the configurations I have tried standard is the better option concluding louder is not better. 4.0 has higher limiter and it revs to it freely and with a tune and OAP removal by all accounts will see 470bhp and give you the sound track it should have had from new, if anything this is the path I will take next. Personally I couldn't get away with the manual box in the 981, the lack of zing at the top from the 3.8 and long gearing made it uninspiring to wring it out and after the initial honeymoon period of running it in, I quickly lost interest in it and sold the car on, for this reason I went with the PDK in the 4.0 (mine is a Spyder) and have no regrets, worth mentioning its the only car I own that's not a manual in my fleet .

I would definitely go 718 it's a better car all together than the 981. Current pricing makes no sense it's just the usual porsche world smoke and mirrors that lad people to still prefer the older car. Yes the 981 sounds better or should I say different but the 718 is great. The only thing that's a bit off is the way the exhaust valve is set up. I'm going to pull the vacuum hose off mine as soon as I get chance who needs the quiet mode? The suspension is better on the 718 and the steering is absolutely next level. I found the 981 very dull in this area with almost no steering feel. The 718 and this is a potentially controversial thing that I can barely believe I'm about to say but... It's as good as an Evora. That's the highest praise there is for car steering it's that good. I can't believe more noise isn't made about this specific thing as that's the main difference to me between the two. Admittedly I do have PCCB which also makes a huge difference to steering on p cars.

I sold a 981 GT4 in November and do very much miss it, absolutely fun car but the reason I sold it was I needed something a tad quicker, once you get used to the 981 it just lacks that final"push". The guy who bought mine has the perfect idea, he's building an engine to drop in that should give him 430-440bhp and more torque, it will be about as perfect as you can get in a 981 I suspect and I asked for first refusal to buy it back eventually. I also drove a 718 GT4 manual with over axle pipes, lightened flywheel and tune by 9m. It was absolutely perfect and would be a future "go-to" car for me. I don't see 981 values holding firm now you can get into a 20 plate 718 for not much more cash, and in a good way the mileage going up/values softening on all GT4s is a good thing as more people will be able to buy one and use it hard as intended rather than worrying about resale values and keeping mileage down. If it was me looking to buy now I'd definitely be after the 4 litre cars, manual or pdk but with exhaust mods for a bit more noise that's all.

GT3Manthey said: PDK Very nice . Did you opt for manual or PDK ?

I can only echo some of the comments on here about the "skunkworks" nature of the 981 GT4. I have one alongside my 991.2 GT3 and the fact that i still have it a year after buying the GT3 should say a lot. I have Fabspeed downpipes on mine and it's probably one of the best "sound" experiences in a car this side of a classic Ferrari V8 in my view. No, its not blow your socks off fast, but its a better car to go for a leisurely to fast drive into town than a GT3 which just wants to be revved out to 9k rpm all the time. I test drove a 718 GT4 a few years ago, and also drove one at PEC Silverstone and like many have said, it left me feeling a bit cold. Yes, its a better car, but a better "petrolhead" experience? not convinced.

av185 said: My 1 owner Guards Red 4k mile 2021 model 718 GT4 manual (carbon Spyder buckets extended leather red stitching carbon interior package chrono sat plat wheels red calipers FPSH + full Porsche warranty etc etc) will be for sale in a few weeks time btw to make way for my incoming new 4RS. No PCCB’s? Shame really.

PGNSagaris said: No PCCB’s? Shame really. An utterly ridiculous comment. Not everyone thinks the PCCB option is needed. Each to their own, but quite frankly, there are more reasons not to have them than to have them.

I happen to agree with you. It was ironic and aimed at our resident non driving spec queen, AV.

kmpowell said: PGNSagaris said: No PCCB’s? Shame really. An utterly ridiculous comment. Not everyone thinks the PCCB option is needed. Each to their own, but quite frankly, there are more reasons not to have them than to have them. I love the look of PCCB's but against the red I prefer the standard calliper which, are more than up to the job .

R33FAL said: I can only echo some of the comments on here about the "skunkworks" nature of the 981 GT4. I have one alongside my 991.2 GT3 and the fact that i still have it a year after buying the GT3 should say a lot. I have Fabspeed downpipes on mine and it's probably one of the best "sound" experiences in a car this side of a classic Ferrari V8 in my view. No, its not blow your socks off fast, but its a better car to go for a leisurely to fast drive into town than a GT3 which just wants to be revved out to 9k rpm all the time. I test drove a 718 GT4 a few years ago, and also drove one at PEC Silverstone and like many have said, it left me feeling a bit cold. Yes, its a better car, but a better "petrolhead" experience? not convinced. Have to agree, can’t see me getting rid either, prefer the looks of the 981 as well, feel the 718 looks very square.

Have to say the comments on here are the best Ive read for a long time, especially Liams. as a 981 GT4 owner for nearly 2 years the only car I would change it for is a 718 GT4 PDK but I have yet to try one and the prices are higher so am keeping an eye on the market. Do not forget the GT4 is now discontinued so good luck trying to predict future residuals.

kmpowell said: PGNSagaris said: No PCCB’s? Shame really. An utterly ridiculous comment. Not everyone thinks the PCCB option is needed. Each to their own, but quite frankly, there are more reasons not to have them than to have them. Quite K, especially on a GT4....but he is typically backtracking again and clearly fails to understand GT4s being much more interested in randomly popping up stalking me. Strange how my GT4 has done 4k miles seeing as apparantly I've never driven it yet I've owned it from new.

JeffC said: I think early manual 718 look cracking value at the mo , the 981s are just overpriced and I can't imagine many are selling, the price difference should be considerably more, the fact that it's rarer does not mean that it automatically carries a price premium especially if there is better cars for the same money, genuinely in your position the 718 is a no brainer. Out of interest How Many Left quotes 671 718 GT4 manuals v 568 981 GT4 manuals.

av185 said: kmpowell said: PGNSagaris said: No PCCB’s? Shame really. An utterly ridiculous comment. Not everyone thinks the PCCB option is needed. Each to their own, but quite frankly, there are more reasons not to have them than to have them. Quite K, especially on a GT4....but he is typically backtracking again and clearly fails to understand GT4s being much more interested in randomly popping up stalking me. Strange how my GT4 has done 4k miles seeing as apparantly I've never driven it yet I've owned it from new. Makes me smile how most of the threads on here start out in a positive way with plenty of constructive comments and then deteriorate! We are all privileged owners and it’s great that we don’t all like the same. Enjoy what you’ve got whilst you’re here. YOLO

https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u...

Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car

GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours 😂 plastic dash but looks a tidy car

Augustash said: GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours ?? plastic dash but looks a tidy car Same colour as mine, I’ve pccb, buckets and yellow stitching, i love it :-) One of the favourite cars I own.

Youforreal. said: Augustash said: GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours ?? plastic dash but looks a tidy car Same colour as mine, I’ve pccb, buckets and yellow stitching, i love it :-) One of the favourite cars I own. Oops sorry . Actually with PCCB that colour will Work .

GT3Manthey said: Youforreal. said: Augustash said: GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours ?? plastic dash but looks a tidy car Same colour as mine, I’ve pccb, buckets and yellow stitching, i love it :-) One of the favourite cars I own. Oops sorry . Actually with PCCB that colour will Work . lol, no need to be sorry, all have different tastes :-) Tbh I’m I’m not a fan of the Porsche logo up the side, it combined with red calipers really doesn’t do the colour any favours.

Youforreal. said: lol, no need to be sorry, all have different tastes :-) Tbh I’m I’m not a fan of the Porsche logo up the side, it combined with red calipers really doesn’t do the colour any favours. Yeah I'm with you on the decals but again , it's all personal taste. Have to say having owned a 981 GT4 in 2015 and now being the owner of partial new knees I'm quite taken by the 718 GTS 4.0. Decent brakes & 18 way seats would probably tick a few boxes for me

GT3Manthey said: Yeah I'm with you on the decals but again , it's all personal taste. Have to say having owned a 981 GT4 in 2015 and now being the owner of partial new knees I'm quite taken by the 718 GTS 4.0. Decent brakes & 18 way seats would probably tick a few boxes for me The 4.0 gts is an epic car by all accounts, possibly the best all round cayman ever made……

Youforreal. said: Augustash said: GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours ?? plastic dash but looks a tidy car Same colour as mine, I’ve pccb, buckets and yellow stitching, i love it :-) One of the favourite cars I own. Silver, Sat Plat or Sat Black wheels?

981SPYGANG said: Youforreal. said: Augustash said: GT3Manthey said: Augustash said: https://www.scuderiaprestige.com/vehicle-details/u... Not one of the better Colours I'd say but looks a decent car One of my favourite colours ?? plastic dash but looks a tidy car Same colour as mine, I’ve pccb, buckets and yellow stitching, i love it :-) One of the favourite cars I own. Silver, Sat Plat or Sat Black wheels? Sat platinum, was very close to black as they look good with the yellow calipers, possibly looking at getting the bbs fi-r in black if I do go for an extra set!

981SPYGANG said: Looks lovely that! Makes the want for black more so and no dust!!

GT3Manthey said: Have to say having owned a 981 GT4 in 2015 and now being the owner of partial new knees I'm quite taken by the 718 GTS 4.0. Decent brakes & 18 way seats would probably tick a few boxes for me I've got both (well, 981 GT4 is 2016, and knees are still original), and the cars are different enough from one another to still want both. GTS 4.0 is a much "softer" feeling car, as well as being a little faster and a lot quieter. Still love the GT4, but I appreciate the practicality of the GTS, especially with a couple of snowy periods in recent months. Being able to fit 18" winter wheels and tyres has definitely been worthwhile. Standard red GTS brakes are great for fast road use, and don't suffer with the incessant squealing of the 981 GT4 ironware once cooked on track. Liam

Are you on the Dunlops on the Spider Bispal? I was going to get PS4 but have found that the Dunlops are actually ok in the dry+cold (still poor in the wet+cold) I dont go out of my way to drive in the wet and with Spring around the corner I decided to hold off and just leave the Dunlops on. Ultimately I hope to drop on a spare wheel set and run PS4s day to day though.

fridaypassion said: Are you on the Dunlops on the Spider Bispal? I was going to get PS4 but have found that the Dunlops are actually ok in the dry+cold (still poor in the wet+cold) I dont go out of my way to drive in the wet and with Spring around the corner I decided to hold off and just leave the Dunlops on. Ultimately I hope to drop on a spare wheel set and run PS4s day to day though. Hi, yes have the dunlop sport maxx race 2's on. I know nothing about them. I drove 300 in the rain thinking they were road tyres with no issues and starting to think they are actually OK? However I am pretty sure MPS4S will improve the ride quality (so I've heard) so still keen to swop. I have MPS4S on the 675LT and they are superb road tyres. Need more info from people who have swopped but not much opinion around with a comfort bias.

yeah first time I've had them. They are better than the Cup 2 for the cold weather anyway will see what they are like on track next month.

Bispal said: I owned a 981 Spyder for 18 months and 8k miles, almost all European touring. I sold it as I bought an Exige 430CUP and fancied a change. When I eventually sold the 430CUP I started yearning for a Spyder again. However the 981 had some areas I was not entirely happy with :- 1) The ride wasn't just harsh but also crashy and a little unsophisticated, my feet would bounce off the pedals, tricky when you're 'on it' 2) The engine held back in the mid range, you could feel it, the C2S detune was 100% evident. 3) Noise, at times I was laughing out loud, 2nd gear on the M25 at 70 mph was hilarious for short overtakes, at other times, in towns and villages, I felt my face going red with embarrassment. 4) The 981 felt BIG, in fact it felt like a larger car than my 675LT. There were pro's with the 718 that attracted my towards it:- 1) PASM and full on GT suspension means a more sophisticated and better damped ride. 2) Engine much more free revving and no restrictions in power band. 3) Better interior, in particular I really like the way the stitching rises from the central lower console then goes horizontal instead of vertical (as in the 981) This means much less reflections on the screen and much nicer appearance. This was a big factor for me but no-one usually mentions it. 4) Better exterior. I was not keen on the way the 981 rear lights had a lip in them following the spoiler, it niggles me on all 981's. Also the front splitter is body colour at the base. In this respect I think the 981 GTS looks better than the 981 Spyder. In the end I tired a 4.0GTS and loved it and placed an order. I waited and waited and then saw that used 718 Spyder's had reached new 4.0GTS levels. I couldn't resist So I cancelled my order and bought a 718 Spyder, even though, if I fully admit it, the GTS would probably suit my usage better, I have only had the 718 4 days but have already put on 550 miles. So far the ride is as I hoped, much better and more sophisticated, the power band is also better, no reining in. I can't tell much difference in steering other than the 718 has some feel, the 981 didn't have much. The 718 feels smaller and more agile than the 981. This surprised me but a few reviews have said the same (Everyday Driver USA). The 4.0 GTS felt much faster than the 981 Spyder but have not fully let rip in the 718 Spyder (wife on board) so can't comment on that yet but it has plenty of power. The 981 used to ground out quite a bit, the 718 has not yet, even on London speed bumps. The 718 also has track tyres on, I need to ditch these for MPS4S then hopefully the ride will be even better as the 675LT is much comfier than the 981 & 718. The biggest issue for petrolheads is the sound. As I said the 981 can excite and embarrass in equal measures. The 718 is mechanical and clattery below 4k revs. Then it's sublime, love it, Sounds like a 'proper' Porsche and not a tuned Audi. I hear you can bypass the PPF very easily if you want more volume through the whole range. I tried the cylinder de-activation for a few hundred miles on the 718 and got an impressive 33mpg. With it off, I got 28mpg. The 981 averaged bang on 30mpg on one of our 2,980 mile Alpine excursions (including a few laps of the ring). Both very impressive for 3.8 / 4.0 NA motors. For reference my 675LT will do 36-40mpg though on the m-way. For me the 718 is a better car than the 981. But that's like saying the 981 is 8 out of 10 and the 718 - 8.5 out of ten (using the 676LT as a reference 10/10). Both cannot be used to full potential on smaller UK - B roads as they are too firm and you need to slow to reduce the bumping. My 28 year old Mk1 MX5 would easily keep up with both, unless you are a masochist. My 981 had carbon backed folding buckets, which I adored and were comfy. However the 718 has 18 way comforts. Being controversial I think the buckets are comfier than the 18 ways BUT I got the comforts as they make the car easier to get in and out of, and for my wife's comfort, it was a small compromise to make. Also I prefer manual seats as you can just ram them back in a millisecond to get in and out, electric takes an age to move. That's my experience so far, not a GT4 but hopefully near enough? Edited by Bispal on Monday 12th February 09:39 Very helpful! Thanks very much for all the detail! With Porsche being Porsche they never tend make a newer car worse than the previous gen so I’m sure all of your comments will relate to the GT4 as well in terms of ride quality etc. I would say the noise is probably my main concern with the 718, but like you say when you’re giving it the full beans close to 8k rpm it’s never going to sound bad!

RM93 said: Very helpful! Thanks very much for all the detail! With Porsche being Porsche they never tend make a newer car worse than the previous gen so I’m sure all of your comments will relate to the GT4 as well in terms of ride quality etc. I would say the noise is probably my main concern with the 718, but like you say when you’re giving it the full beans close to 8k rpm it’s never going to sound bad! Watch Andrew Chappies videos on YouTube (Volkswizzard) He bought a 718 GT4 and did a couple of Euro tours late last year with his wife. Has lots of useful info. The GT4 did sound louder than the Spyder in the cabin. My wife and myself could hold a normal volume conversation at motorway speeds in the Spyder. For engine / exhaust anything over 4k rpm sounds epic. If you want loud under that then get the PPF bypass pipe.

fridaypassion said: yeah first time I've had them. They are better than the Cup 2 for the cold weather anyway will see what they are like on track next month. I’d have to disagree on that. I’ve had Cup2’s on various Porsche product (2 x GT4’s and 997.2 GTS) and my new car was delivered on the Dunlops. I tried my best to live with the Dunlops and did 4.5k miles on them through last year but in the end I couldn’t live with them to the end of their life and swapped them for a set of lightly used Cup2’s I had in the garage. This may be because I’m based in the NW and it’s probably generally colder and wetter than most places, but the operating window for the Dunlops is just too small. The Cups have always been “ok” for me down to about 5-6C in the wet. The Dunlops just offered absolutely nothing to me, and were borderline lethal for me at anything below 12C and damp. In the dry and warm they are absolutely mega though. I’d even give them the nod over Cup2’s. But it wasn’t a big enough advantage to have to live with the cliff they fall off when the temps drop.

jackwood said: I’d have to disagree on that. I’ve had Cup2’s on various Porsche product (2 x GT4’s and 997.2 GTS) and my new car was delivered on the Dunlops. I tried my best to live with the Dunlops and did 4.5k miles on them through last year but in the end I couldn’t live with them to the end of their life and swapped them for a set of lightly used Cup2’s I had in the garage. This may be because I’m based in the NW and it’s probably generally colder and wetter than most places, but the operating window for the Dunlops is just too small. The Cups have always been “ok” for me down to about 5-6C in the wet. The Dunlops just offered absolutely nothing to me, and were borderline lethal for me at anything below 12C and damp. In the dry and warm they are absolutely mega though. I’d even give them the nod over Cup2’s. But it wasn’t a big enough advantage to have to live with the cliff they fall off when the temps drop. Did you notice any difference in ride quality / cabin noise?

Bispal said: Did you notice any difference in ride quality / cabin noise? Nothing that noticeable I’m afraid. PS4S’s may be a different story though. I did have those on a base Cayman 2.0 that I had as a temporary car between my last two GT4’s (new car was delayed) and that was excellent. But obviously completely different car suspension-wise.

Interesting Jack I've found the Cups to drop off at ambient temps around 12 degrees and honestly be a bit dangerous in cold + wet conditions. Almost wrote my GT3 off with them on!

Most of my experience has been on GT4’s recently. So wouldn’t like to comment on how well they work on a GT3. And obviously not trying to imply that the Cups work as well at 10C and damp conditions as they do at 10C But the Dunlops, to me, definitely felt as though they gave up grip at much higher temps than the Cups on my regular test routes. Having now done a couple of thousand miles on the Cups on the same car that came in the Dunlops, I’m happy with my decision to change. But as always, your mileage may vary I’m sure you’ll love them on track, especially if it’s a nice dry day. Will be interested to hear your thoughts. Are you going to get some more camber dialled in before your TD? If you are even remotely quick you’ll destroy the fronts on OEM settings.

Yeah I have a hunter rig here so will at lest max front cambers probably wont touch the rears for now I understand you need rear control arms that are longer for this.

fridaypassion said: Yeah I have a hunter rig here so will at lest max front cambers probably wont touch the rears for now I understand you need rear control arms that are longer for this. Yes, in order to keep some toe, you’ll need adjustable rear toe links if you are going to add much more than stock rear camber.

Lots of good feedback and thoughts on both models. Ultimately you have to go and test drive both to get a feel for both cars and within a short distance maybe even from the looks you will know which one you want I have a gt4 clubsport and probably bought at the height of the market in Jan 23 - £75k for a 5k mile car. It’s now on 11k and been to Le Mans, magny cours, Reims and many uk trips including winter miles on the Pirelli n rated tyres . for me the ride is noisey, yes the splitter scrapes, I look at speed bumps with more fear than a speed camera but would I change it - absolutely not. I came from a 997.2s manual guard reds and agree with the comments that the 981 doesn’t pack a big punch engine wise but give it a b road and you will have a big smile on your face. I think that’s the same for either car. so have a look about - travel to some dealerships just inside the border and go and get a car.. spring is coming!! Edited by KOKSRACING on Wednesday 14th February 22:49

I owned a 981 Spyder for 18 months and 8k miles, almost all European touring. I sold it as I bought an Exige 430CUP and fancied a change. When I eventually sold the 430CUP I started yearning for a Spyder again. However the 981 had some areas I was not entirely happy with :- 1) The ride wasn't just harsh but also crashy and a little unsophisticated, my feet would bounce off the pedals, tricky when you're 'on it' 2) The engine held back in the mid range, you could feel it, the C2S detune was 100% evident. 3) Noise, at times I was laughing out loud, 2nd gear on the M25 at 70 mph was hilarious for short overtakes, at other times, in towns and villages, I felt my face going red with embarrassment. 4) The 981 felt BIG, in fact it felt like a larger car than my 675LT. There were pro's with the 718 that attracted my towards it:- 1) PASM and full on GT suspension means a more sophisticated and better damped ride. 2) Engine much more free revving and no restrictions in power band. 3) Better interior, in particular I really like the way the stitching rises from the central lower console then goes horizontal instead of vertical (as in the 981) This means much less reflections on the screen and much nicer appearance. This was a big factor for me but no-one usually mentions it. 4) Better exterior. I was not keen on the way the 981 rear lights had a ridge in them following the spoiler, it niggles me on all 981's. Also the front splitter is body colour at the base. In this respect I think the 981 GTS looks better than the 981 Spyder. In the end I tried a 4.0GTS and loved it and placed an order. I waited and waited and then saw that used 718 Spyder's had reached new 4.0GTS levels. I couldn't resist So I cancelled my order and bought a 718 Spyder, even though, if I fully admit it, the GTS would probably suit my usage better, I have only had the 718 4 days but have already put on 550 miles. So far the ride is as I hoped, much better and more sophisticated, the power band is also better, no reining in. I can't tell much difference in steering other than the 718 has some feel, the 981 didn't have much. The 718 feels smaller and more agile than the 981. This surprised me but a few reviews have said the same (Everyday Driver USA). The 4.0 GTS felt faster than the 981 Spyder but have not fully let rip in the 718 Spyder (wife on board) so can't comment on that yet but it has plenty of power. The 981 used to ground out quite a bit, the 718 has not yet, even on London speed bumps. The 718 also has track tyres on, I need to ditch these for MPS4S then hopefully the ride will be even better as the 675LT is much comfier than the 981 & 718. The biggest issue for petrolheads is the sound. As I said the 981 can excite and embarrass in equal measures. The 718 is mechanical and clattery below 4k revs. Then it's sublime, love it, Sounds like a 'proper' Porsche and not a tuned Audi. I hear you can bypass the PPF very easily if you want more volume through the whole range. I tried the cylinder de-activation for a few hundred miles on the 718 and got an impressive 33mpg. With it off, I got 28mpg. The 981 averaged bang on 30mpg on one of our 2,980 mile Alpine excursions (including a few laps of the ring). Both very impressive for 3.8 / 4.0 NA motors. For reference my 675LT will do 36-40mpg though on the m-way. For me the 718 is a better car than the 981. But that's like saying the 981 is 8 out of 10 and the 718 - 8.5 out of ten (using the 676LT as a reference 10/10). Both cannot be used to full potential on smaller UK - B roads as they are too firm and you need to slow to reduce the bumping. My 28 year old Mk1 MX5 would easily keep up with both, unless you are a masochist. My 981 had carbon backed folding buckets, which I adored and were comfy. However the 718 has 18 way comforts. Being controversial I think the buckets are comfier than the 18 ways BUT I got the comforts as they make the car easier to get in and out of, and for my wife's comfort, it was a small compromise to make. Also I prefer manual seats as you can just ram them back in a millisecond to get in and out, electric takes an age to move. That's my experience so far, not a GT4 but hopefully near enough? Edited by Bispal on Thursday 15th February 07:52

The problem with asking here is everyone has different preferences and will be orientated around that, which may or may not align with what you like in a car. For me the 981 wins hands down every time - 718 just more clinical and less involved (mainly steering feel and sound). The 981 is not perfect either - they just have different characters. Only you really need to make the effort to try both - there must be some owners you way that could help? This video nails it on the head with the pros and cons of etc https://www.pistonheads.com/news/ph-features/porsc...

Bispal said: I owned a 981 Spyder for 18 months and 8k miles, almost all European touring. I sold it as I bought an Exige 430CUP and fancied a change. When I eventually sold the 430CUP I started yearning for a Spyder again. However the 981 had some areas I was not entirely happy with :- 1) The ride wasn't just harsh but also crashy and a little unsophisticated, my feet would bounce off the pedals, tricky when you're 'on it' 2) The engine held back in the mid range, you could feel it, the C2S detune was 100% evident. 3) Noise, at times I was laughing out loud, 2nd gear on the M25 at 70 mph was hilarious for short overtakes, at other times, in towns and villages, I felt my face going red with embarrassment. 4) The 981 felt BIG, in fact it felt like a larger car than my 675LT. There were pro's with the 718 that attracted my towards it:- 1) PASM and full on GT suspension means a more sophisticated and better damped ride. 2) Engine much more free revving and no restrictions in power band. 3) Better interior, in particular I really like the way the stitching rises from the central lower console then goes horizontal instead of vertical (as in the 981) This means much less reflections on the screen and much nicer appearance. This was a big factor for me but no-one usually mentions it. 4) Better exterior. I was not keen on the way the 981 rear lights had a ridge in them following the spoiler, it niggles me on all 981's. Also the front splitter is body colour at the base. In this respect I think the 981 GTS looks better than the 981 Spyder. In the end I tried a 4.0GTS and loved it and placed an order. I waited and waited and then saw that used 718 Spyder's had reached new 4.0GTS levels. I couldn't resist So I cancelled my order and bought a 718 Spyder, even though, if I fully admit it, the GTS would probably suit my usage better, I have only had the 718 4 days but have already put on 550 miles. So far the ride is as I hoped, much better and more sophisticated, the power band is also better, no reining in. I can't tell much difference in steering other than the 718 has some feel, the 981 didn't have much. The 718 feels smaller and more agile than the 981. This surprised me but a few reviews have said the same (Everyday Driver USA). The 4.0 GTS felt faster than the 981 Spyder but have not fully let rip in the 718 Spyder (wife on board) so can't comment on that yet but it has plenty of power. The 981 used to ground out quite a bit, the 718 has not yet, even on London speed bumps. The 718 also has track tyres on, I need to ditch these for MPS4S then hopefully the ride will be even better as the 675LT is much comfier than the 981 & 718. The biggest issue for petrolheads is the sound. As I said the 981 can excite and embarrass in equal measures. The 718 is mechanical and clattery below 4k revs. Then it's sublime, love it, Sounds like a 'proper' Porsche and not a tuned Audi. I hear you can bypass the PPF very easily if you want more volume through the whole range. I tried the cylinder de-activation for a few hundred miles on the 718 and got an impressive 33mpg. With it off, I got 28mpg. The 981 averaged bang on 30mpg on one of our 2,980 mile Alpine excursions (including a few laps of the ring). Both very impressive for 3.8 / 4.0 NA motors. For reference my 675LT will do 36-40mpg though on the m-way. For me the 718 is a better car than the 981. But that's like saying the 981 is 8 out of 10 and the 718 - 8.5 out of ten (using the 676LT as a reference 10/10). Both cannot be used to full potential on smaller UK - B roads as they are too firm and you need to slow to reduce the bumping. My 28 year old Mk1 MX5 would easily keep up with both, unless you are a masochist. My 981 had carbon backed folding buckets, which I adored and were comfy. However the 718 has 18 way comforts. Being controversial I think the buckets are comfier than the 18 ways BUT I got the comforts as they make the car easier to get in and out of, and for my wife's comfort, it was a small compromise to make. Also I prefer manual seats as you can just ram them back in a millisecond to get in and out, electric takes an age to move. That's my experience so far, not a GT4 but hopefully near enough? Edited by Bispal on Thursday 15th February 07:52 That’s very insightful and great detail - thanks….