Models · Porsche
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder buying guide
The 718 Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder, on sale from 2019, share a naturally aspirated 4.0 flat six and were manual only at first, with PDK added from late 2020. The later GT4 RS uses a higher-revving 4.0 with PDK only.
The versions
- Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder: 4.0 flat six, 420PS
- 6-speed manual, or 7-speed PDK dual-clutch from late 2020
- GT4 RS (from the end of 2021): 4.0 flat six, 500PS, PDK only
- Optional carbon ceramic brakes and carbon-fibre bucket seats
- Rear-wheel drive; the Spyder has a manually operated fabric roof
What to check on a 718 GT4 or Spyder
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The connecting rod recall
What to look for: Ask for evidence of recall work, or have a Porsche Centre check from the VIN. On the drive, listen for any knocking from the bottom of the engine, and note any stalling, loss of power or oil leaks.
Why it matters: In 2021 Porsche recalled a small number of 4.0 cars, including GT4s built between late January and early March 2021, because some connecting rods were made outside specification and could crack. Engines that had already run were replaced, and unrun engines got new rods. It's a free fix.
Over-rev record and fault codes
What to look for: Ask for a diagnostic readout on a Porsche PIWIS tester, or have a specialist do one. It shows any engine over-revs, active fault codes and the mileage stored in the engine computer, which should match the dashboard.
Why it matters: The engine computer logs every time the revs went past the limit, usually from a missed gearchange on a manual. Higher-range over-revs are the ones that matter. The stored mileage also helps confirm the car hasn't been clocked.
The nose and underside
What to look for: Kneel at the front and look under the front splitter and bumper for scrapes, cracks and missing fixings. Look along the underside for grounding marks.
Why it matters: These cars sit low and many are used on track. Grounding damage underneath is one of the standard checks on a 718, and scrapes under the nose are usually cosmetic, while cracked mounts or a replaced splitter can point to a harder impact, so ask what happened.
Also in the full guide
- Front radiators and air conditioning
- Water in the boot on track cars
- The Spyder's roof
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 718 GT4 or Spyder
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Porsche.