The Audi R8 model series is being extended with the addition of a rear-wheel drive Coupe and Spyder model. A limited series of 999 units, it will be built by hand at the Bollinger Hofe R8 factory. “The R8 V10 RWS is made for purists,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “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.”
The look of the new R8 RWS is enhanced by the matt black grille of the Singleframe, the matt black air apetures at the front and rear and black-finished 19-inch cast aluminium wheels in a five-spoke V-design. On the Coupe, the upper sideblade is finished in gloss black while the lower blade is in the body colour. The Coupe is also available with an optional red film running over the front bonnet, roof and rear end, similar to the R8 LMS GT 4. Inside you'll find Sport seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara, with bucket seats available as an optional extra. The dashboard features an emblem "1 of 999" referring to the limited number of units.
The Audi R8 V10 RWS engine produces 540PS and delivers a peak torque of 540Nm. The 5.2 FSI engine accelerates the Coupe from 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds, with the Spyder close behind at 3.8 seconds, to a top speed of 198.8mph (197.7mph in the Spyder).
The Audi R8 RWS Coupe weighs 50kg less than the R8 Coupe with all-wheel drive as the all-wheel drive model needs additional components like propshaft, multi-plate clutch and center differential. The R8 RWS Spyder is 40kg lighter than the R8 Spyder V10.
The chassis and control systems allow the driver to carry out controlled drifts when 'dynamic' mode is chosen in the standard Audi Drive select dynamic handling system and the Stabilisation Control ESC is set to 'Sport'. Teh ESC intervenes reliably at the limit and the electromechanical power steering is free of torque steer for precise handling.
The R8 RWS Coupe is priced at £110,000 OTR and the Spyder is priced at £118,690 OTR. Both will be available to order later this year.
