Audi R8 V10 RWD

There are currently various rumours on the car scene about the Audi R8. One of them says that the mid-engine sports car could soon be discontinued without a successor. However, the Audi R8 V10 RWD, which has just been introduced, speaks against this thesis by expanding the model range instead of reducing it. Before the extensive facelift, which made its debut at the beginning of this year, the R8 RWS, limited to just 999 units, offered the first opportunity to acquire an Audi with rear-wheel drive. Now the Ingolstadt-based company is offering a rear-wheel drive version in the normal model range with the new R8 V10 RWD in both different body variants. Technically, it is the new entry-level version into the R8 world by getting the naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine with 397 kW/540 hp and 540 newtonmeters of torque, which sat in the normal R8 until the above-mentioned facelift. Since then, this quattro-version has received a power boost of 30 hp and 20 newtonmeters more. In the RWD, the power reaches the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a mechanical differential lock. This results in the Coupé accelerating to 100 kph (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds and reaching a topspeed of 320 kph (198.8 mph), while the Spyder needs 3.8 seconds and reaches its maximum at 318 kph (197.6 mph).

Visually, the R8 V10 RWD is almost the same as its all-wheel drive quattro siblings. Only the sideblades serve as a distinguishing feature. The Coupé shows the upper part of the blades in ‘mythos black’, while the lower part at both body variants is painted in car color. In addition there are black painted front blades, side skirt inserts and diffuser inserts. For an extra charge, the Spyder is available with an extended ‘Black Styling Package’ or a ‘Carbon Styling Package’ for both version, as well as black painted Audi rings and lettering. Next to that, the new color ‘Kemora grey’ complements the extensive color range.

Inside, the Audi R8 V10 RWD will feature sports seats with a mix of leather and Alcantara upholstery. As soon as the doors are opened, an ‘Audi Sport’ lettering is illuminated on the floor in front of the car by LED spotlights. On the passenger side there is also an ‘RWD’ badge on the dashboard. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched into a Sport mode, allowing the driver to control the car in certain drift angles. Black painted alloy wheels with 245/35 ZR 19 (front) and 295/35 ZR 19 (rear) tires are used as standard. Alternatively, wheel sets in 20 inch or sports tires are also available. With a kerb weight of 1,595 kilograms (Coupé) and 1,695 kilograms (Spyder), respectively, the axle load distribution is 40:60. Compared to the normal R8, the elimination of the cardan shaft, front axle differential and multi-disc clutch for the quattro all-wheel drive system saves around 65 kilograms.

Like all R8 models, the two new RWD variants are produced in the ‘Böllinger Höfe’ manufactory in Neckarsulm mostly by hand. From the beginning of 2020, the first copies will be on their way to the European dealers. In Germany, the price list starts at 144,000 € for the Coupé and 157,000 € for the Spyder.

Images: Audi