A new Audi R8 model has been unveiled on the eve of the Frankfurt motor show, taking the brand into rear-wheel-drive territory for the first time.
Produced by the Audi Sport GmbH competition division, the R8 V10 RWS and R8 Spyder V10 RWS are based on Audi’s R8 LMS Le Mans racing cars. Dealers start taking orders on Friday 15 September, at prices from £110,000, and only 999 will be made.
The same 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine of the R8 quattro model is used, with 540hp on tap alongside 540Nm of torque. Audi quotes a 3.7-second 0-62mph time for Coupe versions, a tenth slower for the open-top Spyder, and a top speed of 198mph.
Weight saving
These acceleration figures are two-tenths slower than the quattro version, despite the RWS models not needing a front propshaft, multi-plate clutch and centre differential and as a result weighing 50kg less in coupe form (Spyder 40kg).
Audi has applied subtle styling touches to differentiate the RWS from other R8 models. Principally these consist of matt black finishes on the grille and the air intakes, and a gloss black upper side blade on coupe versions. A red film stripe running over the entire car from front to back is available as an option.
Audi Sport GmbH CEO Stephan Winkelmann describes the R8 V10 RWS as a car made for purists. “A limited-edition special model for customers with an appreciation for essential driving enjoyment, the R8 V10 RWS is an absolutely exclusive offer,” he says. “With its mid-mounted V10 engine and rear-wheel drive, it successfully brings the driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets.”
