When you consider Porsche’s efficiency fashions, the iconic 911 and the Boxster/Cayman pair dominate. However each decade or so, the engineers at Weissach resolve to desert restraint to create one thing really wild. These are Porsche’s halo automobiles: extraordinarily uncommon and limited-run fashions which might be a showcase of innovation, ardour, engineering, and motorsport-derived expertise coming collectively in a single mannequin. Consider automobiles just like the revolutionary 959 within the Eighties, the homologation 911 GT1 Straßen model from the Nineties, the uncooked Carrera GT within the 2000s, and its technological successor, the 918 Spyder within the 2010s.
Quick ahead to this decade, and each McLaren and Ferrari have given us the W1 and F80 hypercars. We’re but to see something from Porsche, however ideas just like the 919 Road and the Mission X have given us hope. However till the following massive factor from Zuffenhausen, how do Porsche’s final two supercars evaluate? To seek out out, we stack each fashions and evaluate their efficiency, design, inside, present values, and what to be careful for before you purchase.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs Porsche 918 Spyder: Efficiency
Let’s kick issues off with efficiency. The Carrera GT marked the tip of the analog period, and its centerpiece was the naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V10 engine derived from Porsche’s shelved Le Mans prototype, which put out 603 horsepower and 435 pound-feet of torque. The 8,400 rpm redline and an evocative howl from the engine are sufficient to offer each drivers and bystanders (gearheads) goosebumps. The V10 comes mated to a six-speed handbook gearbox that includes Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Clutch, which has earned a little bit of a fame for being notoriously unforgiving.
It tends to interact abruptly, requiring exact modulation; a proven fact that weeds out the uninitiated. Couple that with rear-wheel drive and an absence of traction or stability management, and the CGT makes for a possible widow-maker candidate. Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB) was commonplace, however to make issues safer, Porsche developed a contemporary tire with Michelin for the Carrera GT. Ultimately, for many who can tame this beast, the inboard push-rod suspension and impeccable chassis steadiness, fine-tuned by none apart from two-time WRC champion and Porsche works driver Walter Röhrl, pays dividends in spades, be it out on the highway or the monitor.
In distinction, the 918 Spyder fully re-imagined high-performance Porsche for the hybrid age. Being a part of the Holy Trinity lineage, it pairs a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 derived from the RS Spyder LMP2 race automobile with two electrical motors. One drives the entrance axle, whereas the second dietary supplements the V8 within the rear, and the system has a mixed output of 887 horsepower and 944 pound-feet of torque.
Whereas it could not have the spine-tingling sound profile of the Carrera GT, the 918 makes up with lightning-fast shifts courtesy of a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch computerized transmission and safer all-wheel drive. These two elements alone vastly enhance on-road manners, and mix that with rear-axle steering, torque vectoring, and Porsche Energetic Administration System (PASM), and you’ve got a supercar that gained’t punish you. PCCB was as soon as once more commonplace, and the a number of drive modes imply the 918 Spyder can go from all-electric to Scorching-Lap mode in mere seconds.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs 918 Spyder Specs
| Specification | Porsche Carrera GT | Porsche 918 Spyder |
| Engine | 5.7L NA V10, DOHC, Le Mans-derived | 4.6L NA V8 + 2 electrical motors (PHEV) |
| Energy | 603 hp @ 8,000 RPM | 887 hp (608 hp ICE + 279 hp electrical) |
| Torque | 435 lb-ft @ 5,750 RPM | 944 lb-ft mixed (ICE + electrical motors) |
| Transmission | 6-speed handbook | 7-speed PDK dual-clutch |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive (hybrid: ICE RWD + electrical FWD) |
| 0–60 mph | ~3.5 seconds | ~2.2 seconds (with Weissach Bundle) |
| High Pace | ~205 mph | ~214 mph (93 mph electrical solely) |
| Curb Weight | ~3,042 lbs | ~3,602 lbs (Weissach: ~3,516 lbs) |
| Nürburgring Time | 7:12 | 6:57 |
Exterior Design: Timeless Class vs. Futuristic Aggression
In comparison with the busy aesthetic discovered on trendy supercars, the Carrera GT’s exterior styling actually channels the essence of supercar minimalism of the late Nineties and early 2000s. The low-slung stance, lengthy wheelbase, and facet intakes create a purposeful silhouette.
Its design is outlined by perform, with parts just like the mesh engine cowl that not solely showcase the CGT’s crown jewels, but additionally assist the V10 with cooling. The energetic rear wing deploys routinely at 75 mph, and the intensive use of carbon fiber and magnesium center-lock wheels retains the burden all the way down to a hair over 3,000 kilos. Total, the Carrera GT has aged gracefully over the previous 20 years.
The 918 Spyder, in the meantime, seems prefer it was designed in a wind tunnel (it was) by engineers obsessive about aerodynamics and effectivity. Constructed round a light-weight carbon-fiber bolstered polymer (CFRP) monocoque, the 918 exudes sophistication and tech in comparison with the Carrera GT. The Signature four-point headlights have been now a standard function throughout most Porsche fashions, however one of the vital placing design parts on the 918 is the 2 top-exit exhaust pipes. Whereas they seem like they belong on an idea automobile, they’re current to cut back again strain.
The general bodywork was formed to direct airflow with precision to maximise downforce. Porsche Energetic Aerodynamics (PAA) brings alongside energetic entrance underbody flaps, a variable rear diffuser, and an energetic wing that adjusts in actual time. Staggered wheels on the rear, giant air inlets give it an aggressive stance, distinguishing it as a tech-focused future basic.
Inside Expertise: Spartan Purity vs. Digital Intelligence
Onboard, the Carrera GT’s easy but useful cockpit mirrors its driving expertise. Terracotta leather-based trim was a preferred selection again within the day, and the general inside house is tight. A magnesium gear lever, generally changed with both a carbon-fiber or beachwood knob (an homage to racing Porsches just like the 908/03 Spyder 917k), falls completely at hand within the heart console, surrounded by carbon fiber. Devoid of screens or change gear or perhaps a radio, issues are old-school with an analog gauge cluster and fundamental local weather management. The mounted carbon-fiber seats might provide little in the way in which of cushioning, however ought to present optimum assist throughout spirited drives.
On the 918 Spyder, issues are much more civilized, mixing sportiness and performance with trendy luxurious and comfort options. With a digital-instrument cluster, a touch-sensitive heart console, a multi-function steering wheel, and a drive mode selector, you get a much more built-in and configurable onboard expertise. The usual highback carbon fiber seats are wrapped in leather-based, and again when new, an ‘Genuine ’ leather-based bundle with heritage-inspired piping was additionally out there. Uncommon by supercar requirements, the 918 additionally options dual-zone local weather and a high-end audio system from Burmester, making it a cabin that’s way more livable every day.
Practicality: Weekend Warrior vs. On a regular basis Hybrid Supercar
Regardless of being a supercar, the Carrera GT is surprisingly sensible in comparison with its friends. The entrance trunk at 5.75 cubic toes is small however useful, and is formed in a method to home the detachable roof panels when not in use. The trip high quality could also be agency, however it ought to be high quality with first rate pavement. Nonetheless, the shortage of issues like a entrance axle-lift system and the low-ride peak signifies that navigating by metropolis streets, velocity bumps, and steep driveways may very well be a tense affair. Whereas the ergonomics are nice and the visibility is first rate, the CGT is extra of a weekend toy and doesn’t fairly make the lower as a each day driver, owing to its lack of modern-day comfort options.
The extra well-thought-out 918 just about takes care of those issues. Due to its hybrid tech, 12 miles of EV-only driving from the tiny 6.8 kWh battery pack is on provide, making it very best for city jaunts and people early morning chilly start-ups. Its adaptive suspension might be configured for consolation or stiffness on demand, and the non-obligatory front-axle raise system means you gained’t must deal with clearance points. The light-weight roof panels on the 918 are saved behind the seats, which implies you gained’t lose out on the dear 3.9 cubic toes on provide. The 918 nonetheless stays one of many few supercars you can really drive each day.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs Porsche 918: Collectibility, Reliability & Worth
Whereas each are blue-chip property within the high-end automotive collector world, values and possession experiences differ drastically. On the subject of the Carrera GT, valuations are particularly delicate to mileage. Examples with below 2,000 miles on the clock routinely fetch north of $2.3 million, whereas these with extra miles (over 10,000 miles) land wherever between $1.3-$1.6 million. Coloration additionally performs a significant position right here. The usual GT silver makes up the majority of the 1,270 automobiles produced. However shades like Fayance Yellow, Basalt Black, Guards Crimson, and the ultra-rare Oak Inexperienced that we at the moment have listed, or Riviera Blue, command critical premiums. Manufacturing facility choices like carbon-fiber inside packages, full leather-based trims, and a documented service historical past by Porsche’s Weissach applications can all push costs increased.
As for the 918 Spyder, although extra trendy, fewer have been constructed, making it extra unique than the CGT. Weissach Bundle automobiles, which slash weight through the use of a carbon-fiber roof, uncovered carbon aero, and magnesium wheels, are a few of the most fascinating 918s. They usually promote for $200,000 to 300,000 greater than commonplace fashions. Mileage as soon as once more impacts values, with 1,000-mile examples fetching $ 2.5 million. Uncommon PTS colours like Voodoo Blue, Acid Inexperienced (which can be Porsche’s official E-Hybrid coloration), or Liquid Metallic Chrome, when paired with customized wheel finishes and matching inside colours, make a distinction. The rarest spec fashions function Porsche Exclusiv Manufaktur detailing and are probably the most fascinating automobiles amongst collectors.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs 918 Spyder Worth
| Metric | Carrera GT | 918 Spyder |
| Manufacturing Years | 2003–2006 | 2013–2015 |
| Models Constructed | 1,270 | 918 |
| Unique MSRP | ~$448,000 | $845,000 ($929,000 with Weissach) |
| Market Common (Previous 5 years) | $1.4m | $1.9m |
| Worth Trajectory | Regular appreciation | Sturdy appreciation since 2020 |
Values Sourced From Traditional.com
Reliability & Frequent Points
Carrera GT
Execs: The engine and gearbox of the Carrera GT are typically thought-about dependable, supplied well timed upkeep is carried out. Outdoors the official seller networks, specialists like Repasi Motorwerks up in Connecticut know their means round a Carrera GT. With far fewer electronics, there’s quite a bit much less that may go improper.
Cons: The Porsche Ceramic Composite Clutch (PCCC) is troublesome and really costly to switch. You’re wanting at the least $25,000. The plastic coolant pipes ought to be swapped out for steel ones.
918 Spyder
Execs: The 918 is fairly bullet-proof with regards to reliability. The battery of the hybrid system has confirmed to be sturdy.
Cons: Having mentioned that, when it comes time to switch the hybird battery, it’s costly. The extra tech on the 918 additionally signifies that issues just like the infotainment screens on earlier fashions have aged poorly. Extra complexity signifies that out-of-warranty jobs may value you a reasonably penny.
Ultimately, which one you select between these two comes down to non-public desire, particularly in the event you’re the kind of one that commonly will get behind the wheel. The Carrera GT, as already said, is a weekend toy. Given the rising demand for manuals, particularly in fanatic circles, the CGT is the last word analog-era supercar and stays a timeless favourite amongst purists. However if you would like a Porsche unique you can reside with on daily basis and drive extra often, you possibly can’t beat the 918 Spyder for its expertise, options, and luxury on provide.
Picture Supply: Porsche
FAQs
1. How a lot is a Porsche Carrera GT value now?
A. Relying on mileage, spec, and situation, the Porsche Carrera GT in the present day is value wherever between $1.3 and $1.6 million. Low-mileage examples and particular colours fetch increased premiums, even over $2.0 million.
2. Is the Porsche Carrera GT avenue authorized?
A. Sure, the Porsche Carrera GT, though it packs {hardware} and expertise derived from motorsports, together with the V10 engine, is street-legal.
3. Why is the Porsche Carrera GT so particular?
A. The Porsche Carrera GT is particular as a result of it’s usually thought-about the final analog supercar ever produced, owing to its evocative V10 engine, handbook transmission, and rear wheel drive.
4. What number of Porsche Carrera GTs have been produced?
A. Porsche constructed 1,270 examples of the Carrera GT between 2003 and 2006.
5. What’s the value of a 918 Spyder?
A. The Porsche 918 Spyder routinely fetches over $2.0 million, with Weissach fashions commanding a substantial premium.
6. What makes the 918 Spyder so particular?
A. The 918 Spyder is a part of the Holy Trinity of hybrid supercars that features the La Ferrari and McLaren P1.
7. Is the 918 Road authorized?
A. Sure, whereas it packs a powertrain derived from the RS Spyder LMP2 race automobile, the 918 Spyder is a street-legal supercar.
8. What number of Porsche 918 Spyders have been made?
A. Porsche produced 918 examples of the 918 Spyder between 2013 and 2015.
