Unless you have grown up around Porsche vehicles or know about the history very well, you likely do not know much about the 718. It is not a very well-known vehicle when you compare it to some of the ones that most people know about such as the 356 or the 550 Spyder. However, the 718 does hold a special place in Porsche history and knowing what it meant to the brand may help you make sense of why the auto maker decided to revive it.
The History of the 718
The 728 is actually one of the most successful early race cars by Porsche. Back in its original era, it was known as a giant killer because it featured nimble handling that more than compensated for the power deficit that other vehicles showcased on the track. Additionally, it was a flat four vehicle. Porsche originally started working on the 718 RSK during the winter of 1956. They were preparing it to be ready for the 1957 season. It was originally intended for the 550A Spyder during that time and the plan was to use a lighter tubular space frame along with a revised front suspension and stronger brakes. Once it was complete, it weighed in a 1,168 pounds.
It originally debuted at the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans and the only one on the track crashed on lap 129. Instead of giving up, Porsche began to work on it even more so it would be ready for 1958. In that year, at the Sebring 12 hours, the factory 718 came in third place overall. It also came in second place at the Targa Florio. The 718 had made a name for itself on the track and by 1960, Porsche had started to upgrade it with better engine and reshaped body work. The 718 was successful in the fact that it set the tone for Porsche on the racing circuit for decades to come and really solidified the dominance in many areas.
The Future of the 718 for Porsche
Porsche is not planning on bringing the original vehicles back but they do plan on incorporating the name as well as other components into some of their existing models including the Boxter and the Cayman. To make this work, Porsche will have to downsize both the Boxter and the Cayman. The plan is for Porsche to incorporate the flat four into these new models. While this may not be ideal for many Porsche lovers, others will inevitably discover that they will be very fun vehicles to drive.
Knowing the backstory of the 718 helps to explain this decision by Porsche to revive it in a unique way. It also brings to light how much the 718 Cayman and 718 Boxter have to live up to. That along with the turbocharged flat four power means there is a lot to look forward to when it comes to the new 718 models that Porsche is working on.