What Makes the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS “The Tulip” So Special?
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Porsche’s wildest engineers and most passionate fans get together, meet “The Tulip.” This isn’t just another special edition sports car—it’s a one-off masterpiece created by Porsche Netherlands, dripping in a custom Pastel Orange that pays homage to the Dutch national color. The car’s nickname? A nod to the country’s iconic flower and a wink to Dutch pride.
But the story goes deeper than paint. The Tulip is the result of a collaboration between Porsche Netherlands, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Porsche Sonderwunsch, and Manthey Racing. That’s a lot of heavy hitters for one car, and it shows. Every detail, from the tulip logos on the fenders to the Dutch flag pinstripe on the rear wing, feels intentional. Even the 20-inch forged magnesium wheels get a unique touch, finished in satin black and capped with carbon aero discs for a look that’s both aggressive and elegant.
How Does the Manthey Kit Transform the GT4 RS?
You might be thinking, “Isn’t the Cayman GT4 RS already a beast?” Absolutely. But the Manthey Kit takes things up a notch. For context, this package—costing nearly $54,000 in the US before installation—adds a suite of carbon fiber aero upgrades, including a larger rear wing with a gurney flap. The result? Pure magic. The Tulip can lap the Nürburgring in 7:03.121, shaving more than six seconds off the standard GT4 RS’s time. In the world of track cars, that’s a lifetime.
The Manthey Kit isn’t just about bragging rights. It’s about real, tangible performance. Porsche’s own data shows that these modifications lead to improved downforce, sharper handling, and more confidence at the limit. For anyone who’s ever chased tenths of a second on a track, those numbers matter.
What’s Unique About the Interior and Accessories?
Step inside The Tulip and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s as bespoke as the exterior. Illuminated door sills and headrests are embroidered with tulip motifs, while the bucket seats—wrapped in black leather and Race-Tex—feature Pastel Orange piping and door straps. It’s a playful yet refined callback to the car’s Dutch roots.
But Porsche didn’t stop there. Owners (or, more accurately, the lucky owner) get a personalized car key and case, a special edition Chronograph 718 Cayman GT4 RS, and even a matching thermos mug. All are finished in the same Pastel Orange, complete with the tulip logo. For Dutch Porsche fans who want in on the action, the thermos mug is available for €69.95 and limited to—you guessed it—718 pieces. A clever touch.
Why Commission a One-Off Like This Now?
Timing is everything. The fourth-generation Porsche 718 Series is set to bow out of production this October, making The Tulip a fitting send-off. It’s a celebration of the model’s legacy, and a showcase of what’s possible when creativity isn’t held back by mass production constraints.
Special editions like this aren’t just about exclusivity. They’re about storytelling. The Tulip captures a moment in time—Dutch motorsport pride, the end of an era for the 718, and the relentless pursuit of performance. It’s a rolling piece of art, destined to be remembered long after the last 718 leaves the factory.
Can Regular Porsche Fans Get a Piece of The Tulip?
The car itself is a true one-off, and it’s unclear whether it’ll stay with the Dutch importer or find its way into a private collection. But Porsche hasn’t forgotten the fans. The limited-edition thermos mug and chronograph offer a tangible connection to The Tulip, letting enthusiasts own a slice of this unique story. It’s a smart move—one that builds community and keeps the legend alive, even if you’re not behind the wheel.
What Does The Tulip Say About Porsche’s Future?
The Tulip isn’t just a flashy send-off. It’s a signal of where Porsche is headed: more personalization, deeper collaborations, and a willingness to celebrate local culture. As the industry shifts toward electrification and new technologies, projects like this remind us that passion and heritage still matter.
The big takeaway? Automotive greatness isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments and bold storytelling. Start with one detail that matters to you, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. That’s the real legacy of The Tulip: inspiration, one orange accent at a time.