When you concentrate on Porsche’s efficiency fashions, the iconic 911 and the Boxster/Cayman pair dominate. However each decade or so, the engineers at Weissach determine to desert restraint to create one thing actually wild. These are Porsche’s halo vehicles: extraordinarily uncommon and limited-run fashions which are a showcase of innovation, ardour, engineering, and motorsport-derived know-how coming collectively in a single mannequin. Consider vehicles just like the revolutionary 959 within the Nineteen 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 Avenue 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 search 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 have interaction abruptly, requiring exact modulation; a undeniable fact that weeds out the uninitiated. Couple that with rear-wheel drive and a scarcity of traction or stability management, and the CGT makes for a possible widow-maker candidate. Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB) was normal, however to make issues safer, Porsche developed a contemporary tire with Michelin for the Carrera GT. In the long run, for many who can tame this beast, the inboard push-rod suspension and impeccable chassis stability, 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 observe.
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 automated 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 received’t punish you. PCCB was as soon as once more normal, 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) |
| Prime 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 fashionable supercars, the Carrera GT’s exterior styling definitely 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 in addition assist the V10 with cooling. The lively rear wing deploys mechanically at 75 mph, and the intensive use of carbon fiber and magnesium center-lock wheels retains the load right down to a hair over 3,000 kilos. General, the Carrera GT has aged gracefully over the previous twenty years.
The 918 Spyder, in the meantime, appears to be like 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 had been now a standard characteristic throughout most Porsche fashions, however one of the hanging design parts on the 918 is the 2 top-exit exhaust pipes. Whereas they appear like they belong on an idea automobile, they’re current to scale back again stress.
The general bodywork was formed to direct airflow with precision to maximise downforce. Porsche Energetic Aerodynamics (PAA) brings alongside lively entrance underbody flaps, a variable rear diffuser, and an lively wing that adjusts in actual time. Staggered wheels on the rear, massive air inlets give it an aggressive stance, distinguishing it as a tech-focused future traditional.
Inside Expertise: Spartan Purity vs. Digital Intelligence
Onboard, the Carrera GT’s easy but purposeful cockpit mirrors its driving expertise. Terracotta leather-based trim was a well-liked 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 handy within the middle console, surrounded by carbon fiber. Devoid of screens or swap gear or perhaps a radio, issues are old-school with an analog gauge cluster and fundamental local weather management. The fastened carbon-fiber seats could supply 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 fashionable luxurious and comfort options. With a digital-instrument cluster, a touch-sensitive middle 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 package deal with heritage-inspired piping was additionally accessible. 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 ft is small however purposeful, and is formed in a option to home the detachable roof panels when not in use. The trip high quality could also be agency, nevertheless it needs to be effective with respectable pavement. Nonetheless, the dearth of issues like a entrance axle-lift system and the low-ride top implies that navigating by way of metropolis streets, velocity bumps, and steep driveways might be a tense affair. Whereas the ergonomics are nice and the visibility is respectable, the CGT is extra of a weekend toy and doesn’t fairly make the reduce 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. Because of its hybrid tech, 12 miles of EV-only driving from the tiny 6.8 kWh battery pack is on supply, making it supreme for city jaunts and people early morning chilly start-ups. Its adaptive suspension might be configured for consolation or stiffness on demand, and the optionally available front-axle elevate system means you received’t need to deal with clearance points. The light-weight roof panels on the 918 are saved behind the seats, which suggests you received’t lose out on the valuable 3.9 cubic ft on supply. The 918 nonetheless stays one of many few supercars which you can really drive each day.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs Porsche 918: Collectibility, Reliability & Value
Whereas each are blue-chip property within the high-end automotive collector world, values and possession experiences differ drastically. In relation to the Carrera GT, valuations are particularly delicate to mileage. Examples with underneath 2,000 miles on the clock routinely fetch north of $2.3 million, whereas these with extra miles (over 10,000 miles) land anyplace between $1.3-$1.6 million. Coloration additionally performs a significant function right here. The usual GT silver makes up the majority of the 1,270 vehicles produced. However shades like Fayance Yellow, Basalt Black, Guards Crimson, and the ultra-rare Oak Inexperienced that we at present 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 way of Porsche’s Weissach applications can all push costs greater.
As for the 918 Spyder, although extra fashionable, fewer had been constructed, making it extra unique than the CGT. Weissach Bundle vehicles, which slash weight by utilizing a carbon-fiber roof, uncovered carbon aero, and magnesium wheels, are among the most fascinating 918s. They usually promote for $200,000 to 300,000 greater than normal 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 also 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 characteristic Porsche Exclusiv Manufaktur detailing and are essentially the most fascinating vehicles amongst collectors.
Porsche Carrera GT Vs 918 Spyder Value
| Metric | Carrera GT | 918 Spyder |
| Manufacturing Years | 2003–2006 | 2013–2015 |
| Items Constructed | 1,270 | 918 |
| Authentic MSRP | ~$448,000 | $845,000 ($929,000 with Weissach) |
| Market Common (Previous 5 years) | $1.4m | $1.9m |
| Worth Trajectory | Regular appreciation | Robust appreciation since 2020 |
Values Sourced From Basic.com
Reliability & Widespread Points
Carrera GT
Professionals: The engine and gearbox of the Carrera GT are usually thought of dependable, supplied well timed upkeep is carried out. Exterior the official supplier networks, specialists like Repasi Motorwerks up in Connecticut know their method round a Carrera GT. With far fewer electronics, there’s rather a lot much less that may go fallacious.
Cons: The Porsche Ceramic Composite Clutch (PCCC) is troublesome and really costly to switch. You’re wanting at the very least $25,000. The plastic coolant pipes needs to be swapped out for steel ones.
918 Spyder
Professionals: The 918 is fairly bullet-proof relating to reliability. The battery of the hybrid system has confirmed to be sturdy.
Cons: Having stated that, when it comes time to switch the hybird battery, it’s costly. The extra tech on the 918 additionally implies that issues just like the infotainment screens on earlier fashions have aged poorly. Extra complexity implies that out-of-warranty jobs may price you a reasonably penny.
In the long run, which one you select between these two comes down to non-public desire, particularly when you’re the kind of one that often 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 need a Porsche unique which you can dwell with every single day and drive extra often, you may’t beat the 918 Spyder for its know-how, options, and luxury on supply.
Picture Supply: Porsche
FAQs
1. How a lot is a Porsche Carrera GT price now?
A. Relying on mileage, spec, and situation, the Porsche Carrera GT at this time is price anyplace between $1.3 and $1.6 million. Low-mileage examples and particular colours fetch greater premiums, even over $2.0 million.
2. Is the Porsche Carrera GT road authorized?
A. Sure, the Porsche Carrera GT, though it packs {hardware} and know-how 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 of 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 had 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 Avenue 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 had been made?
A. Porsche produced 918 examples of the 918 Spyder between 2013 and 2015.
