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Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder

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description Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder Overview

The Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder was an open-cockpit racing car built by Porsche in the early 1960s for hillclimb and sports car competition. Often called 'the grandmother' by Porsche engineers, it was powered by a 2.0-liter flat-eight engine, an experimental configuration for Porsche at that time. Driven primarily by Edgar Barth and Gerhard Mitter, it competed in events including the European Mountain Championship, winning the championship in 1963 and 1964. The car continued racing in various configurations until 1964.

help Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder FAQ

What engine did the Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder use?

The early-1960s Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder was famously fitted with an experimental eight-cylinder engine. This powertrain was developed to help Porsche remain competitive against larger-displacement competitors in international events.

What kind of racing was the Porsche 718 W-RS designed for?

The 718 W-RS Spyder was specifically developed as a hillclimb-focused vehicle. It competed in the European mountain championship, where its lightweight design and powerful engine gave it a distinct advantage on steep, winding courses.

Who drove the Porsche 718 W-RS Spyder in competition?

Legendary drivers like Edgar Barth and Jo Bonnier were heavily involved in driving the 718 W-RS for the Porsche factory team. Barth notably secured multiple European Hillclimb Championship victories using this exact car.

Why is the Porsche 718 W-RS sometimes nicknamed the "Grandmother"?

The car earned the German nickname "Grossmutter" (Grandmother) because it remained in active competition for so many years. Its longevity and reliable performance made it a maternal figure for the Porsche factory racing program well into the mid-1960s.

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