2015 Porsche 918 'Weissach' Spyder
Seller's description
887 total bhp (608 bhp and 279 bhp), 4,593 cc V-8 engine and dual electric motors, seven-speed PDK transmission, aluminum double-wishbone front suspension with multi-link rear axle and electric rear-wheel steering, and four-wheel carbon ceramic brakes with hybrid braking system. Wheelbase: 107.5 in.
- Porsche’s 21st century supercar
- Fitted with the highly desirable Weissach package
- Less than 250 miles from new
In the 21st century more than ever, cutting-edge automotive technology has been playing a massive role in the design and development of supercars. While the 21st century’s first batch of supercars, the Porsche Carrera GT, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, and Ferrari Enzo, all sported large, naturally aspirated engines, the next decade would see sweeping changes and developments in hybrid technology. Each respective company pursued speed and performance through a naturally aspirated, high-horsepower powerplant, mating it to a lightweight chassis with equally lightweight bodywork.
While hybrid cars were beginning to catch on in other segments of the market, these manufacturers were quick to realize that hybrid powertrains were beneficial in not only reducing emissions and creating highly fuel-efficient vehicles, but that they could be used to increase performance as well. Utilizing an electric powertrain to support the conventional combustion engine at its weakest points, performance could be elevated to levels never thought possible, all while decreasing emissions in an industry ever more scrutinized for carbon pollution. While McLaren’s P1 and the Ferrari LaFerrari used hybrid technology to create uncompromising performance cars, Porsche believed it could use hybrid technology, and a handful of other new innovations, to bring its customers a well-rounded yet equally impressive supercar.
Looking to take a step in a different direction compared to the no-frills Carrera GT, not only would the 918 be a technological masterpiece, but it would be as comfortable as it is fast, making it more akin to the groundbreaking 959. At its heart is a 4.6-liter V-8 engine, producing 608 brake horsepower supported by two electric motors, producing 279 brake horsepower, making for a total hybrid output of 887 brake horsepower. Mated to the incredible Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, performance was simply mind-blowing. Capable of accelerating from 0–62 mph in 2.6 seconds, the 918 could rocket onward toward a top speed of 214 mph. However, should a more subtle return or departure from a given destination be required, the 918 can be solely run on electric power, with a maximum range of 19 miles.
While the P1 and LaFerrari were rear-wheel drive, Porsche decided on four-wheel drive, making the 918’s horsepower more manageable. Furthermore, this four-wheel drive system is enhanced by rear-axle steering, giving the car a smaller turning circle at low speeds and increased stability at high speeds. With electric motors at both axles, the 918 is able to recover energy normally lost at braking to recharge its own batteries. Finally, the Spyder’s roof is fully removable, allowing the driver and passenger to experience Porsche’s newest supercar as a coupe or convertible.
For buyers looking to further intensify the driving experience, Porsche offered an additional package to make the 918 even more radical. For $80,000, the Weissach package endeavored to make the 918 even lighter. Nothing was overlooked in the pursuit of weight savings and as a result, Porsche replaced many of the interior components normally swathed in leather with Alcantara and substituted a large portion of the car’s aluminum components for carbon fiber. Super-lightweight magnesium wheels were fitted and the windscreen frame, roof, rear wings, and rear-view mirrors were also made out of carbon fiber. This accounted for a reduction of 99 pounds over the standard 918 Spyder, as well as an instantly discernible increase in performance.
Finished new in Black over an Onyx Black leather interior with silver stitching and piping, this 918 is presented in virtually as-new condition with less than 250 miles on its odometer. As the 559th example built, it was delivered with a number of desirable options, including the front axle lift kit, lightweight bucket seats, a Burmester sound system, seatbelts with silver accents, and the glare-reducing interior package. Importantly, the car still retains its original window sticker as well as its battery charger, owner’s manual, and car cover.
A surefire collectible, the Porsche 918 Spyder is considered by many to be more livable and usable on a daily basis compared to its rivals, the McLaren P1 and the Ferrari LaFerrari. Presented with a number of desirable options, including the Weissach package and with less than 250 miles on its odometer, this 918 is without fault and warrants serious consideration. Should its next owner decide to keep it in a collection of similar Porsche or late-model supercars, or even drive it on road and track, it will not disappoint.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website atrmsothebys.com/.
2015 Porsche 918 'Weissach' Spyder
2015 Porsche 918 'Weissach' Spyder
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