The Porsche 718 and 911 are two iconic sports car models from the renowned German automaker Porsche. While both offer exhilarating performance and luxurious features, they have distinct differences in design, engine configuration, and driving characteristics. The 718 is Porsche’s mid-engine sports car lineup, consisting of the Boxster (convertible) and Cayman (coupe) models. The 911, on the other hand, is Porsche’s flagship rear-engine sports car with a longer heritage and more diverse range of variants.
To better understand the key differences between these two Porsche models, let’s compare their main features:
| Feature | Porsche 718 | Porsche 911 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Layout | Mid-engine | Rear-engine |
| Base Engine | 2.0L Turbo Flat-4 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo Flat-6 |
| Base Power Output | 300 hp | 379 hp |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2+2 (4) |
| Starting Price (approx.) | $60,500 | $101,200 |
These differences contribute to unique driving experiences and target different segments of the sports car market. Let’s delve deeper into the specific areas that set these two Porsche models apart.
Engine and Performance
The most significant difference between the Porsche 718 and 911 lies in their engine configurations and performance characteristics. The 718 features a mid-engine layout, with the engine positioned behind the seats but in front of the rear axle. This design provides excellent balance and handling, making the 718 incredibly agile and responsive in corners.
The base 718 models come equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 300 horsepower. Higher-performance variants like the 718 S and GTS 4.0 offer more powerful engines, with the top-tier GT4 RS boasting a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine generating up to 493 horsepower.
In contrast, the Porsche 911 features a rear-engine layout, with the engine positioned behind the rear axle. This unique configuration gives the 911 its distinctive driving characteristics, including excellent traction and a rear-weight bias that contributes to its legendary handling.
The base 911 Carrera is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 379 horsepower. Higher-performance models like the 911 Turbo and GT3 offer even more potent engines, with power outputs ranging from 450 to over 600 horsepower in the most extreme variants.
Both the 718 and 911 offer impressive acceleration and top speeds, but the 911 generally has a slight edge in straight-line performance due to its more powerful engines and advanced all-wheel-drive systems available in some models.
Design and Styling
While both the Porsche 718 and 911 share the unmistakable Porsche design language, they have distinct visual differences that set them apart. The 718 features a more compact and athletic appearance, with shorter overhangs and a lower, wider stance. Its mid-engine layout allows for a sleeker profile, with the cabin positioned further forward on the chassis.
The 718 is available in two body styles:
- Boxster: A two-seat convertible with a folding soft top
- Cayman: A two-seat coupe with a fixed roof
The Porsche 911, on the other hand, has a more iconic and instantly recognizable silhouette that has evolved over decades. Its rear-engine layout results in a distinctive sloping rear deck and wider rear fenders. The 911’s longer wheelbase and larger overall dimensions give it a more substantial presence on the road.
The 911 is offered in several body styles:
- Coupe: The classic fixed-roof design
- Cabriolet: A convertible version with a folding soft top
- Targa: A unique semi-convertible design with a retractable roof panel
- Speedster: A limited-edition, lightweight open-top variant
Both models feature Porsche’s signature design elements, such as round headlights, muscular wheel arches, and clean, uncluttered body lines. However, the 911’s longer heritage and more diverse range of variants give it a broader appeal to Porsche enthusiasts and collectors.
Interior and Practicality
The interior design and practicality of the Porsche 718 and 911 reflect their different target markets and intended uses. The 718, being a pure two-seat sports car, offers a more focused and driver-centric cockpit. Its mid-engine layout allows for two luggage compartments – one in the front and one behind the engine – providing a combined cargo capacity of around 15 cubic feet.
Key interior features of the 718 include:
- Two-seat configuration
- Driver-oriented dashboard layout
- High-quality materials and finishes
- Modern infotainment system with touchscreen display
- Optional sport seats with enhanced bolstering
The Porsche 911, designed as a more versatile sports car, offers a 2+2 seating configuration in most models. While the rear seats are small and best suited for children or additional storage, they add a level of practicality not found in the 718. The 911’s front trunk (or “frunk”) provides about 4.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which is less than the 718’s combined capacity but still useful for daily driving or weekend getaways.
Notable interior features of the 911 include:
- 2+2 seating layout (except in GT3 models)
- More spacious cabin with improved headroom and legroom
- Advanced digital instrument cluster
- Larger touchscreen infotainment system
- Wide range of customization options
Both models offer premium interiors with high-quality materials, excellent fit and finish, and a wide range of customization options. However, the 911’s larger dimensions and additional seating make it a more practical choice for those who occasionally need to carry more than one passenger.
Driving Experience and Handling
The driving experiences of the Porsche 718 and 911 are both exceptional, but they differ in character due to their distinct engine layouts and chassis designs. The 718’s mid-engine configuration provides near-perfect weight distribution, resulting in incredibly balanced handling and responsive steering. This makes the 718 particularly adept at tackling tight corners and winding roads, offering a more nimble and agile driving experience.
Key driving characteristics of the 718 include:
- Exceptional balance and agility
- Precise steering feedback
- Excellent mid-corner stability
- Lighter overall weight compared to the 911
The Porsche 911, with its rear-engine layout, offers a unique driving experience that has been refined over decades. The weight of the engine over the rear axle provides excellent traction, especially when accelerating out of corners. While early 911 models were known for their challenging handling at the limit, modern 911s benefit from advanced suspension systems and electronic aids that make them more forgiving and easier to drive at high speeds.
Notable driving characteristics of the 911 include:
- Excellent traction and acceleration
- Unique rear-engine dynamics
- More stable high-speed handling
- Greater variety of driving modes and electronic aids
Both models offer outstanding performance and handling, but the 718 tends to feel more nimble and responsive in tight corners, while the 911 excels in high-speed stability and straight-line acceleration. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and intended use, whether it’s track days, spirited backroad driving, or daily commuting.
Price and Value Proposition
The Porsche 718 and 911 target different segments of the sports car market, which is reflected in their pricing and value propositions. The 718 serves as Porsche’s entry-level sports car, offering a more accessible price point for those looking to experience Porsche performance and engineering.
Starting prices for the 718 range:
- 718 Cayman: Approximately $60,500
- 718 Boxster: Approximately $62,600
- Higher-performance variants can reach up to $100,000 or more
The Porsche 911, being the brand’s flagship sports car, commands a higher price premium and offers a broader range of models and performance levels. Its iconic status and more powerful engines contribute to its higher cost.
Starting prices for the 911 range:
- 911 Carrera: Approximately $101,200
- 911 Carrera S: Approximately $117,100
- High-performance models like the 911 Turbo S can exceed $200,000
While the 718 offers excellent value for those seeking a pure sports car experience, the 911’s higher price is justified by its more powerful engines, advanced technologies, and greater practicality with its 2+2 seating configuration. The 911 also tends to hold its value better over time due to its iconic status and broader appeal among collectors.
FAQs About Porsche 718 vs 911
- Which is faster, the Porsche 718 or 911?
Generally, comparable 911 models are faster than 718 models due to more powerful engines, but top-tier 718 variants can match or exceed some 911 models in performance. - Is the Porsche 718 cheaper to maintain than the 911?
The 718 may have slightly lower maintenance costs due to its simpler engine design and newer platform, but both require specialized care and can be expensive to maintain. - Can the Porsche 911 seat four people comfortably?
While the 911 has a 2+2 seating configuration, the rear seats are small and best suited for children or occasional adult use on short trips. - Which Porsche model is better for daily driving?
The 911 is generally considered more practical for daily use due to its additional seating and more comfortable ride, but both can serve as daily drivers. - Do the Porsche 718 and 911 have similar fuel efficiency?
The 718’s smaller engines typically offer better fuel efficiency, but modern 911 models have improved significantly in this area, narrowing the gap between the two.