Audi have released information about the new variations of their popular R8 model. Limited to 999 units worldwide, the Audi R8 V10 RWS and R8 Spyder V10 RWS will be exclusively rear-driven.
Naturally Aspirated Engines
The Audi R8 V10 RWS features a V10 engine which is mid-mounted and produces 540PS delivering peak torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. The 5.2 FSI engine powers the Coupé from 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and beyond to a top speed of 198mph (Spyder: 197mph). With the roof closed, combined fuel economy in the R8 V10 RWS amounts to 22.7mpg, corresponding to 283 grams CO2 per kilometre. With the roof open, these stats are 22.4mpg and 286 grams CO2 per kilometre.
Specially Tuned Chassis
The Coupé weighs 1,590 kilograms which is 50 kilograms (110.2 lb) less than the R8 Coupé with all-wheel drive which needs additional components like propshaft, multi-plate clutch and centre differential. The Spyder is 40 kilograms lighter than the R8 Spyder V10, weighing in at 1,680 kilograms. The axle load distribution of 40.6:59.4 (Coupé) and 40.4:59.6 (Spyder) with chassis and handling tuning specially adapted for rear-wheel drive provide for particularly a breath-taking ride.
If the driver selects the “dynamic” mode in the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system and positions the Stabilisation Control ESC to “Sport” the chassis setup and control systems allow controlled drifts. The ESC intervenes reliably at the limit. The electromechanical power steering is free of torque steer and allows the driver precise handling on the road. The Audi R8 V10 RWS comes standard with black-finished, 19-inch, cast aluminium wheels in a five-spoke V-design, with 245/35 tyres up front and 295/35 at the rear.
Stunning Design Elements
The unique nature of the new R8 variant is underscored by the matt black grille of the Singleframe and the matt black air apertures at the front and back aspects of the car. The upper sideblade (of the Coupé) is perfected with gloss black, the lower blade in the body colour.
Like to the R8 LMS GT 4, the Coupé can come with an optional red film running over the bonnet, roof and rear end. Inside, the sport seats are covered in leather and Alcantara and the dash bears a “1 of 999” badge indicating the limited number of models created.
CEO of Audi Sport GmbH, Stephan Winkelmann commented, “The R8 V10 RWS is 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. 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.”
We can’t wait to see this new Audi on the road.