Modded 718 Spyder vs. 991.2 GT3 Manual
Discussion
Currently own a manual 718 Spyder from new with a JCR backbox and wondering if I should go down the route of more 'invasive' mods to further unlock performance and sound. The thinking is to add the JCR manifolds which has the benefit of performance gains in addition to the sound and a custom gear set from KMP (https://www.kmpdrivetrain.com/product-category/gears/porsche982/). I have no intention of tracking nor any desire to exceedingly break the speed limit which makes this gear set attractive as it means you could keep the car in third and fourth and still be in the sweeter spot of the rev range, rather than second and third where there is a bigger risk of a 'money shift' due to going across the box. The picture below illustrates the custom gear set speeds in gear (solid) vs. OEM (dashed). Benefit of this vs. the final drive mod is that 1st and 6th remain unchanged.
Saying all that, I could achieve both the performance and sound I desire, as well as having better ratios in the OEM gearbox by simply upgrading to a 991.2 GT3 manual without losing any warranty but I would lose the open top motoring...
What would other PHers do in my shoes? I think I already know the answer, but would be good to hear other views...

Saying all that, I could achieve both the performance and sound I desire, as well as having better ratios in the OEM gearbox by simply upgrading to a 991.2 GT3 manual without losing any warranty but I would lose the open top motoring...
What would other PHers do in my shoes? I think I already know the answer, but would be good to hear other views...

Edited by Implus1 on Wednesday 15th March 19:36
Implus1 said:
TDT said:
Sounds like what you really need is a Spyder RS or a 991 Speedster. 
Both unobtanium sadly!
I’d say it depends on how much you really enjoy the open top experience.
What you could do is just do manifolds 1st.
Car will run without a remap, but will likely have a CEL on the dash, but will run fine, ECU will adapt and will have more power/torque and sound.
With just a bolt-on change, it’s easily reversible for OPC visits/MOT etc.
You could run it like that for a while to evaluate if you want more Spyder ,or actually you are ready for a change.
If you decide to change, you’ll get decent resale return on the JCR headers.
If you still want more, then, go for gearing. (Personally jury is still very much out, for me on this, with this engine)
If it’s the wrong direction you haven’t done anything permanent, and haven’t spent ‘too much’ money.
Edited by TDT on Wednesday 15th March 19:46
As above Spyder RS is probably the only sensible answer.
I’ve had a couple of 718 Spyders and although it’s one of the very best cars that Porsche make it’s just let down by the lack of involvement and stimulation from the power train. The rest of the package is so bloody good that the lack of visceral interaction with the important bits is a real shame.
I fully understand with why you would do the mods but I suspect that Porsche will do it better with the RS engine and PDKS box.
I’ve had a couple of 718 Spyders and although it’s one of the very best cars that Porsche make it’s just let down by the lack of involvement and stimulation from the power train. The rest of the package is so bloody good that the lack of visceral interaction with the important bits is a real shame.
I fully understand with why you would do the mods but I suspect that Porsche will do it better with the RS engine and PDKS box.
bigmowley said:
As above Spyder RS is probably the only sensible answer.
I’ve had a couple of 718 Spyders and although it’s one of the very best cars that Porsche make it’s just let down by the lack of involvement and stimulation from the power train. The rest of the package is so bloody good that the lack of visceral interaction with the important bits is a real shame.
I fully understand with why you would do the mods but I suspect that Porsche will do it better with the RS engine and PDKS box.
If you are a more visceral experience you could go for the 981 GT4 instead and pocket some money. See how you get on, and if you crave more power (but seriously why would you on public roads) go for the GT3I’ve had a couple of 718 Spyders and although it’s one of the very best cars that Porsche make it’s just let down by the lack of involvement and stimulation from the power train. The rest of the package is so bloody good that the lack of visceral interaction with the important bits is a real shame.
I fully understand with why you would do the mods but I suspect that Porsche will do it better with the RS engine and PDKS box.
RPM sold a substantially modified black 718 Spyder recently - can’t remember now exactly what was done (or if they did it) but included suspension/ exhaust for sure, might be worth a chat with them to discuss pros and cons. And of course they have there own gear ratio mod an lwfw offering. Car seemed to sell quite quickly but I doubt the seller got his money back - small market for newer modified cars is one consideration I guess.
elisered said:
RPM sold a substantially modified black 718 Spyder recently - can’t remember now exactly what was done (or if they did it) but included suspension/ exhaust for sure, might be worth a chat with them to discuss pros and cons. And of course they have there own gear ratio mod an lwfw offering. Car seemed to sell quite quickly but I doubt the seller got his money back - small market for newer modified cars is one consideration I guess.
Yeah I remember that car. Had KW V3 coilovers, ST brake discs and the gear ratio change.I think the gear ratio change is a great idea and I'd do that first. It won't harm the car's value because it would be a very desirable mod. But it would reduce the number of people interested in buying it in the future (those who want a standard car with extendable warranty) but the people who do want it will be willing to pay a (small) premium for it.
braddo said:
I think the gear ratio change is a great idea and I'd do that first. It won't harm the car's value because it would be a very desirable mod. But it would reduce the number of people interested in buying it in the future (those who want a standard car with extendable warranty) but the people who do want it will be willing to pay a (small) premium for it.
For warranty renewal purposes, it would be quite difficult to notice it had different gear ratios. Presume if something unrelated failed it wouldn't be an issue.Gassing Station | 911/Carrera GT | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff