Wait for it - here comes the Spyder

Nov 9 2009 Peter Hayward

ANY new car from Porsche is always worth the wait and I can't wait to get my hands on this one.

It's the Boxster Spyder with a lightweight body and more power for an even better drive.

Weighing just 1,275kg, the Spyder is the lightest model in the Porsche line-up and the third version in the Boxster range.

It stands out clearly because it has been developed mainly for driving in the open air. The low-slung, lightweight soft top extends far to the rear and serves to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and rain.

When closed, together with the bespoke extra-low side windows and the two unique, striking bulges on the single-piece rear deck, it gives a sleek silhouette.

It uses a tweaked version of the 3.4-litre flat six from the Boxster S with direct fuel Injection giving 320bhp.

Power is to the rear wheels, of course, via a twin clutch semi-auto gearbox and, using Launch Control, it can accelerate from standstill to 62mph in an amazing 4.8 seconds.

Interior

The Spyder will be launched at the LA Auto Show in December, with UK sales starting in February 2010. Cockpit details are non-existent at the moment, but watch this space.

FAST FACTS

Porsche Boxster Spyder

Price: £44,640

Mechanical: 320bhp, 3436cc, 6 cylinder petrol engine driving the rear wheels via a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

Max speed: 166mph

0-62mph: 4.8 seconds

Combined mpg: 30.4

Insurance group: 20

CO2 emissions: N/A

BIK rating: 35%

Warranty: 2yrs/ unlimited mileage

Marks: 10/10

Main rival: Audi TT RS roadster