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Today I had an opportunity to look closely at a new 2020 718 GT4. Very nice car but really other than cosmetics (chin spoiler, rear wing, side scoop, a little more aggressive looking etc.) I really couldn't tell the difference. I've read they are "better" than the 981 GT4 but it would be difficult for me to make the change based upon "better". I'm not knocking the 718, I like them but "the juice just isn't worth the squeeze."
@4ocious you've just described every Porsche. They make incremental evolutionary changes. Only enthusiasts generally notice the differences.
Agree, the real difference is usually in the drivetrain, suspension and other less visible components. In my case the change from 981 to 718 just isn't worth the price difference when you consider I can mod my 981 to achieve almost the same performance as a 718 for less money.
Had I not sold my 981 GT4 for a 991.2 C2S (a decision I regret), I wouldn't have jumped to a 718 GT4. But given the choice between the 2 it was worth paying the premium for the newer car with full warranty. I really like mine and the small differences end up making a good overall improvement.
...I really like mine and the small differences end up making a good overall improvement.
Well said. That is The Porsche Way. The 7 models from 996.1 to 992.1S, for instance, have gone from 300hp to 443, which is only 24hp per model jump for the 6 changes. But every time they include other upgrades as well, the overall effect of which is very noticeable.
I drove them back-to-back, minutes apart--having not driven or owned either going in--and was not quite sold on the $35k+ difference in price: this being between the used 981 I did buy and the 718 GT4 build I submitted for an allocation (the spread for the lot car I was offered on the spot was even larger). Disregarding subjective factors (here again I actually preferred the 981) and whatever else you could do with the same money, that's also a lot of shop visits, tires, mods, and track fees. Plus, the 981 was almost exactly the equivalent spec (color and all) I was planning to order and, you know, instant gratification.
However, I'm still planning to revisit this comparison in a year or two because there are non-trivial improvements (most noticeably to the engine, exhaust note aside) and this means there's no denying that the newer model is the better base platform. If the 718 turns out to be the last of the N/A H6 ICE cars and the 9A2 Evo is as reliable as its predecessor, I may have to consider a brand new one while the option is still there. I also figure by then that allocations (and possibly even discounts) will be much easier to come by, and Euro delivery may again be a possibility.
I saw one up close yesterday and I have to say cosmetically the 718 a better looking car. All the small/minor changes/improvements do add up to car with a better presence. I can no comment on how it drives but it is a very sexy car and made me miss my 981 a little.
For me it's the opposite. I think the design of the 981 rear is much cleaner than the 718. I can appreciate the improved aerodynamics that the changes provide, and the 718 does of course improve on the overall performance of the 981, but that's to be expected. Personally, I think the 718 loses some of the rawness that the 981 offers, unfortunately due to the refinements Porsche has made. It's all about what makes you happy though. The 981 is not the fastest Porsche on the road, but to me at least it's one of the most fun to drive.
For me it's the opposite. I think the design of the 981 rear is much cleaner than the 718. I can appreciate the improved aerodynamics that the changes provide, and the 718 does of course improve on the overall performance of the 981, but that's to be expected. Personally, I think the 718 loses some of the rawness that the 981 offers, unfortunately due to the refinements Porsche has made. It's all about what makes you happy though. The 981 is not the fastest Porsche on the road, but to me at least it's one of the most fun to drive.
I think 718 is the better drivers car. Engine more power and no „dips“, steering feels better, turn in is sharper, suspension better damping.
I saw one up close yesterday and I have to say cosmetically the 718 a better looking car. All the small/minor changes/improvements do add up to car with a better presence. I can no comment on how it drives but it is a very sexy car and made me miss my 981 a little.
The rear of the car a big improvement
Wow, I totally disagree on the rear. I think the front end looks better, but the rear not near as elegant.
Nice side-by-side comparison, thank you for posting. JMO but I like the 718's extended wing and separated dual exhausts. But I know the 981's conjoined exhausts are a carryover from the GT3 and more traditional so that's good too. In my case I R&R'd my 981 tips with Fabspeed black tips which stick out a bit further and seem to be a bit larger which gives them a more aggressive look.
09-05-2020, 06:02 PM
Saw My First 718 GT4 Today
