The Audi R8 Coupé started out with a 4.2-lite V8 engine when it was launched in 2007. In 2009, the Coupé range was expanded to include a 386 kW V10 engine in addition to the V8 model offered at launch. Most recently, a more focused version with more power and less weight was launched, called the Audi R8 GT.
So a drop-top version of the R8 was a forgone conclusion, and as a result, the R8 Spyder was born. This model is now available in South Africa with V10 power and the choice of manual or R tronic sequential transmission. Although, having driven the car with both transmission options we’d say the 6-speed manual is a no-brain-er.
The R8 Spyder has a fabric roof that opens or closes within 19 seconds. When the top is folded down a carbon fibre compartment lid, with large aluminium air outlets, covers it up tidily. Inside there is all manner of comfort features you’d expect to find on a luxury car, including bluetooth cell phone preparation; MMI Plus navigation system with reverse parking camera; a Bang & Olufsen sound system; heated seats and Nappa leather seat trim. The most exciting feature of the interior will undoubtedly be the noise from the engine directly behind you. In the coupé bodystyle the sound is already intoxicating so doing away with the roof will take the driving experience to an entirely different level.
To refresh your memory, the R8 Spyder V10 is powered by the same 5.2-litre V10 engine as in the R8 Coupé. Power output is rated at 386 kW at 8 000 r/min and a torque peak of 530 Nm at 6 500 r/min. The V10 has enough shove to launch the R8 Spyder manual from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and on to an unlimited top speed of 313 km/h. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro® all-wheel drive system.
| Price |
|
| Audi R8 V10 Spyder M/T | R2 104 000 |
| Audi R8 V10 Spyder R tronic | R2 149 000 |
