The most powerful series production engine has turned the R8 Spyder V10 plus into the fastest ever series-production convertible. The new R8 Spyder accelerates from 0 to 62mph in just 3.3 seconds thanks to the gloriously vocal 610PS V10 engine, a significant 70PS advantage over the 'standard' V10 Spyder.
Available to order later this month priced from £147,470 OTR, the new R8 Spyder will feature a standard specification list that reflects the sporting credentials and premium positioning of this high-performance vehicle. Highlights include R8 bucket seats, ceramic brakes, R8-specific Audi Virtual Cockpit and the option of a stunning micrommata green paint finish.
“The Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus completes the R8 model line,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “The Spyder is now also available as a 610PS top version in addition to the Coupé. It benefits from our many years of experience in motorsport and combines breath-taking dynamics with the emotion of an open-top sports car.”
Lightning quick response, high revving up to 8,700 rpm and an evocative sound, the top V10 with 610 PS and 560Nm torque is the most powerful series-production engine from Audi. The R8 Spyder returns up to 22.6mpg combined with efficiency technologies like cylinder on demand. If the driver eases off the accelerator at a speed of over 34mph, the engine disconnects from the drive allowing the R8 Spyder to coast at idle with minimal fuel consumption. When the car comes to a stop the start-stop system deactivates the engine.
A seven-speed S tronic transmission sends power to the quattro drive system. Depending on the driving situation, distribution of the drive torque by the clutch is completely variable, and in extreme cases sends up to 110% to one axle. Management of the clutch is integrated in the Audi drive select system, giving the driver a choice between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual modes. As well as controlling the quattro system, Audi drive select can influence the accelerator pedal, the seven-speed S tronic, the steering, the flaps of the exhaust system and the optional Audi magnetic ride adaptive damper control. In dynamic mode, the system delivers the sharpest steering response and maximum handling agility.
The Audi R8 Spyder has an athletic stance on the road measuring 4.43m long, 1.94m wide and just 1.24m tall. The distinctive wide and flat Singleframe grille with gloss honeycomb mesh, chrome-plated frame and Audi Sport emblem sets of the look of the car. Below it, you'll find a low-lying carbon spoiler to direct air around the large wheels. The taut line of the body is emphasised by a continuous shoulder line and distinguishing features of the open-top include sideblades, sill trim, lid on the convertible top compartment and the fixed rear spoiler which are all constructed from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP). At the rear, large glossy black exhaust pipes flank the opening of the wide diffuser. Its suction holds the R8 Spyder V10 plus on the road with around 100kg of down-force pushing down on the rear axle at top speeds.
The cloth top weighs just 44kg and contributes to the low weight and low centre of gravity. Two fins running to the rear tighten the top and an electrohydraulic drive takes 20 seconds to open or close the top, even while driving at speeds up to 31mph. The rear window is sunk into the bulkhead and can be retracted and extended electrically. With all of the windows closed and the optional wind deflector installed, the win passes gently over the driver and passenger.
There are a range of possibilities when it comes to personalising the Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus. In addition to the 11 regular paint finishes, there is also the option of freely selectable colours and matte finishes. The convertible top, side blades and door sill trim are just some of the features that can be personalised.
R8 bucket seats upholstered in fine Nappa leather contain a special pigment that stops them from heating up in the sun's rays. The defining element of the interior is the "monoposto", a large arc that runs around the cockpit which makes the dashboard appear as if it is floating weightlessly.
As in a racing car, the driver can operate all important features from the standard R8 performance leather steering wheel which features integrated multifunction buttons and two large control satellites. The driver uses these to start and stop the engine and control Audi drive select. Two additional buttons including a rotary wheel are used to control performance mode and the exhaust flaps.
The large 12.3" Audi virtual cockpit presents all information to the driver using rich 3D graphics in a special performance view that focuses on the rev counter if desired. It also serves as a gear shift indicator – when the seven-speed S tronic is being operated in manual mode, its scale has a colour background at higher engine speeds. Next to it are indicators showing output, torque, g-forces, lap times and the temperatures of the tyres, engine and transmission oil.
The Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus meets the most stringent standards. The body and final assembly are completed in the “Audi Böllinger Höfe” production facility operated by Audi Sport near Neckarsulm. The processes are organised to be highly flexible so that individual customer requests can be fulfilled. Before they are delivered, each high-performance sports car is put through a stringent test procedure until their final test drive on public roads.
To find out more and to register your interest, please contact your nearest Lookers Audi centre.
