The Porsche Cayman GT4 RS makes more noise inside than out, why is that?

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Thinking back a few years when ‘plumbed in intake sound’ became a thing, immediate thoughts are of the Holden Commodore SS V Redline Series 2, the first-generation Toyota 86/ Subaru BRZ and Ford Focus XR5 Turbo/ST. 

But Porsche has gone above and beyond in the sound department for the brand-new Cayman GT4 RS by completely redesigning the intake system to enhance the driving experience for whoever is lucky enough to own one.

The Porsche GT department has replaced the small rear-side windows with stunning carbon-fibre air intakes that funnel sound straight into the cabin and directly into the ears of the driver and front-passenger. 

The path that the intake air travels goes right behind the head of the driver and passenger through a beautifully designed carbon tunnel into a giant airbox behind the seats. 

Once the air has passed through the carbon tunnels, it feeds directly into individual throttle bodies that are now vertically placed rather than horizontal. 

“The intake noise is all real,” said head of Porsche GT cars Andreas Preuninger to Road and Track. “You can orchestrate the noise like a conductor. There is nothing synthetic and nothing coming from the speakers. You can hear the air rushing in creating these burbles and these noises depending on your load and depending on the RPMs. It’s so entertaining”. 

So why has so much time and effort been spent on this carbon intake?

As emissions restrictions get tighter, so do noise pollution restrictions. Most cars now are mandated to be fitted with not just a catalytic converter but a PPF, or petrol particulate filter, which further prevents unwanted pollutants from exiting the exhaust and ruining the Earth. 

But the downside with PPFs is they also mute engine sound. Now, most people probably wouldn’t mind driving around in a quiet, comfortable car, but Porsche – which tailors its cars for driving enthusiasts – has had to make a workaround. 

The answer? Increase engine (or intake) sound inside of the car and reduce sound heard outside. This way, noise pollution and emissions are reduced but driver engagement and sound inside can be boosted. Cue lots of disappointed schoolkids as you quietly trundle past in your race car-for-the-road GT4 RS. 

Over the last few years, Porsche GT cars have gradually been getting quieter, and this is a problem for enthusiasts. But now with the introduction of this fancy carbon intake, drivers and passengers can better enjoy the gorgeous noises of a Cayman GT4 RS’s 4.0-litre flat-six.  

Search on Youtube for Cayman GT4 RS and you will be able to hear for yourself just how ridiculous this car sounds. It could very well be the most intense and loud intake system fitted to a production car. We approve.