Audi: Treats for the real purists
CENTRAL ENGINE FLEET The new Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD complements the R8 series as a Coupé and Spyder with 30 additional horsepower. The rear-wheel-drive mid-engine two-seater is equipped with new technology highlights. The R8 V10 Performance RWD now forms the sporty spearhead of Audi's production sports cars. The new performance models make the basic R8 V10 Quattro and R8 V10 RWD versions [...]
The R8 V10 Performance RWD now forms the sporty spearhead of Audi's production sports cars. The new performance models replace the basic R8 V10 Quattro and R8 V10 RWD versions.
The mid-engine sports car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 329 km/h. The heart of the new model is the naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine, which is not only lightning-fast in response and extremely rev-happy, but also produces a fascinating sound.
Body in space frame construction and aluminum
The ten-cylinder engine produces a maximum of 570 hp and 550 Nm of torque, which is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission. A mechanical limited-slip differential distributes the drive torque to suit the driving situation, ensuring optimum traction even with little grip.
As with all R8s, the body is built using the space-frame construction method of aluminum and partly carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. The Coupé version thus weighs 1590 kilograms, the Spyder 1695 kilograms.
Setup and control systems control drifts
When the ESC stabilization control is in sport mode, the suspension setup and control systems allow controlled drifts. Even more precise response and feedback is provided by the dynamic steering system, available for the first time on the rear-wheel-drive R8.
The sports suspension adapted for rear-wheel drive operates with double wishbones and passive differential lock. The axle load distribution is 40:60, and particularly lightweight 19- and 20-inch cast aluminum wheels ensure precise handling in fast cornering sections.
Atmosphere of a race car interior
The taut lines also characterize the interior. The most striking element is the "monoposto," the strongly contoured arch around the area in front of the driver's seat, which conveys the atmosphere of a race car cockpit.
The Drive Select control satellites are used to vary the performance modes and engine sound. The new bucket sports seats are upholstered in leather and Alcantara, and the front passenger seat includes a badge with the RWD lettering. The R8 V10 Performance RWD is built at the Böllinger Höfe manufactory in Neckarsulm.
The Four Rings can be ordered from October 21 and costs 167,700 Swiss francs as a Coupé and 179,200 Swiss francs as a Spyder.
