Watch: a closer look at the stunning new 493bhp Porsche 718 Spyder RS

The Boxster is the entry-level Porsche, right? Not this one. Welcome to the 493bhp, 9,000rpm world of the 718 Spyder RS – the last hurrah for petrol-powered mid-engined Porsches before the next Boxster goes all electric.

And what a way to go out swinging: Porsche’s dumped as many GT4 RS components as it can into its two-seat roadster: the howling naturally aspirated engine, lighter panels, more aero and then it set about redesigning the roof, to make it lighter. And much harder to erect in a hurry…

There’s also lower (but less hardcore) suspension, optional magnesium wheels, and no manual gearbox. Flappy paddles only here – but is that enough to put you off spending your £123,000 on the most badass Boxster ever?

Join Top Gear magazine’s Ollie Kew for an in-depth look inside and around the new Spyder RS. And don’t blame him if you’re not able to buy one.