Complacency breeds mediocrity, or at least that is what Porsche engineers seem to think because they now offer a Manthey kit, which introduces more aero and a pinch of racing pedigree to its current generation 718 Cayman GT4 RS.
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The kit is purposed to improve the aerodynamic capabilities and chassis components of the already capable GT4 RS. The Manthey kit is the spawn of a collaboration between the Stuttgart firm’s Motorsport division engineers and Nordschleife specialists from Manthey’s stables. The most significant change to the GT4 RS formula has been to its downforce and aerodynamic performance rather than chassis tuning and tinkering.
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At the front, downforce capability has been improved by way of new flaps, air curtains, diffusers and an entirely new carbon fibre underbody. To compliment added downforce in front is a new rear wing which is 85 mm wider than that of the RS variant, and is characterized by its new wing blade and larger endplates. The flank showcases the new aero discs fitted to the rear wheels, which are composed of CFRP and are claimed to help reduce turbulence at the rear and add a bit of flair to the overall appearance. Porsche claims that at 200 km/h and in full attack mode, the total downforce generated increases from 89 kg to 169 kg!
Aside from aerodynamic adjustments, Manthey and Porsche have developed a new coil-over suspension with an inverted setup that is more suited to track use. Alongside this is a new spring trust that can be adjusted to four different positions, which include adjustments for rebound and compression. This is available for models with and without an air lift system on the front axle. Additionally, the spring rates of the front suspension have been increased by 20 per cent resulting in a much firmer driving experience. The GT4 RS braking system has also been tinkered with. Steel brake lines are a standard component in the Manthey kit, while race-spec brake pads can be optioned for those seeking greater stopping power.
As for other extras, customers can opt for an extended rear spoiler composed of CFRP, which will be attached to the standard rear spoiler. Accompanying the new rear wing, this contributes to an additional increase of four per cent in downforce on the rear axle.
These are not merely cosmetic enhancements totted as performance enhancements, and as the saying goes, the proof is in the pudding. An example of a 718 Cayman GT4 RS with the Manthey Kit managed to lap the hallowed 20,8 km Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7:03.121 minutes which is a whopping 6,1 seconds faster than the production series model, which ran the ring last year.
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The kit will be available globally and is scheduled to launch in Europe in December, with other markets set to follow soon after. The Manthey kit is a significant step up in performance and doesn’t affect your warranty.
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