Limited edition Audi R8 GT Spyder available to order soon
The Audi R8, the marque's flagship sports car, has received a limited edition makeover. Audi are currently taking initial enquiries with a view to shipping just 66 models to the UK early next year.
The hand-assembled body and engine frames use the latest production and construction techniques, plus ultra-light materials such as aluminium, magnesium and carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). Components used in the transmission, wheels and brakes were streamlined, and clever use of glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) for the seat chassis helped lose further weight without compromising strength or performance.
As a result, the new GT Spyder weighs 1640 kilos (85 less than the V10 version). This, together with the 5.2 litre V10 direct injection FSI engine (which produces 540 Nm of torque at 6500rpm and peak power of 560Ps) contributes to its 3.8 second 0-62mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of 197mph.
The fabric soft top is also lightweight but strong, and can be raised/lowered within 20 seconds when travelling at 30mph. To reduce the top's weight and aid efficient raising/lowering, the rear window extends and retracts separately from the bulkhead.
Handling is firm and responsive thanks to rack-and-pinion power steering. The GT Spyder is available as a manual transmission model only; there are six gears in the 'R tronic' gearbox, which has three modes: manual, normal and sport.
Audi's 'quattro' 4WD system is used, configured to send most power to the rear wheels. However the system automatically detects any need for increased torque from the front axle, and grip on the road and stability at speed are further enhanced by the rear differential, as well as Audi's 'ESP' (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) intelligent suspension which has a sport setting, as well as the ability to be completely switched off if preferred.
This is a roomy two-seater despite its incredible turn of speed, with 100 litres of forward storage, and three more compartments at the rear. The standard specification includes LED head and tail lights, automatic air conditioning, DVD-based SatNav, a Bang & Olufsen stereo, and BlueTooth with a driver microphone on the seatbelt.
The Audi R8 GT Spyder is to be strictly limited, with the UK receiving 66 of only 333 models to be produced worldwide. Audi are welcoming expressions of interest presently, with orders being taken from late Summer. Delivery is currently expected early 2012.