Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport Debuts With More Power, Natural Fiber Components

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 (313 kW / 425 PS) and 313 lb-ft (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 2,910 lbs (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 ($152,743 / £120,880) 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 21.1 gallon (80 liter) fuel cell.

More experienced drivers can opt for the €157,000 ($178,955 / £141,638) 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 30.3 gallon (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.