Price Range: $148,000 to $182,000-plus
Description: The ultimate expression of Audi performance engineering goes topless yet again for the 2013 model year with the R8 Spyder. Recently updated and enhanced, the lineup of mid-engine convertible extreme performance cars is now more worth considering than ever.
All models get a power top that can be dispatched into the rear of the vehicle at the touch of a button, where it iis then covered by a motorized lid that leaves no part of the roof exposed.
The result? Sleek, highly aggressive looks remain regardless of roof position.
The fabric top utilizes aluminum and magnesium frame elements and weighs just over 90 lbs making it one of the lightest in the industry. Just 19 seconds is required to operate the roof fully, and at speeds up to 50 km/h.
Look for new LED taillamps, new exhaust outlets, a new fascia, and various cosmetic upgrades inside and out. Under the skin, exhaustive use of aluminum and carbon fibre keep weight to a minimum, enhancing handling, acceleration and fuel economy.
This two-seat drop-top challenges high-dollar Italian and British supercars with an eye for year-round functionality and day-to-day usability.
Drivetrain: Do you like big, powerful and high-revving German-engineered powerplants? Of course you do, and Audi knows it. That’s why the R8 4.2 FSI Quattro gets a tweaked version of the brand’s 4.2L V8, now good for 430 horsepower. The V10-powered R8 5.2 FSI Quattro belts out 525 horsepower.
Equipped with the new, efficiency-enhancing 7-speed S-Tronic transmission and standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD), drivers can expect 0-100 km/h in about 4.4 seconds from their R8 4.2, and about 3.7 seconds with the V10-powered R8 5.2. A viscous coupler and limited-slip rear differential maximize traction on any surface.
Both available engines utilize Direct Injection fuel-delivery technology to support their high compression ratios with precise fuel metering, thorough fuel and air mix in the cylinders, and a power-boosting cylinder cooling effect.
Consider it if: you’re after a relative bargain on an extreme-performance supercar that looks fantastic, is absolutely track-ready, and can be driven every day. The R8 is noted for a fantastic balance between performance and comfort, and a larger-than-expected cabin makes it a comfortable tourer, too.
Skip it if: you need a rear seat or large trunk. Also, the hefty price tag will be prohibitive for many shoppers.
Other Notes: Luxurious touches include a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, quilted leather seating surfaces, automatic climate control, and a full, multimedia-linked navigation and infotainment system. Audi’s Magnetic Ride suspension system is also on board, allowing drivers to toggle between “Normal” or “Sport” suspension calibrations at the touch of a button.
Don’t Miss: The aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) that underlies all R8 models weighs just 210 kilograms. New dynamic turn signals use LED lights that move inside to out in the direction the driver wants to turn. Brakes are available made of carbon ceramic composite material for longer life and improved durability for motorsports.
Description: The ultimate expression of Audi performance engineering goes topless yet again for the 2013 model year with the R8 Spyder. Recently updated and enhanced, the lineup of mid-engine convertible extreme performance cars is now more worth considering than ever.
All models get a power top that can be dispatched into the rear of the vehicle at the touch of a button, where it iis then covered by a motorized lid that leaves no part of the roof exposed.
The result? Sleek, highly aggressive looks remain regardless of roof position.
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The fabric top utilizes aluminum and magnesium frame elements and weighs just over 90 lbs making it one of the lightest in the industry. Just 19 seconds is required to operate the roof fully, and at speeds up to 50 km/h.
Look for new LED taillamps, new exhaust outlets, a new fascia, and various cosmetic upgrades inside and out. Under the skin, exhaustive use of aluminum and carbon fibre keep weight to a minimum, enhancing handling, acceleration and fuel economy.
This two-seat drop-top challenges high-dollar Italian and British supercars with an eye for year-round functionality and day-to-day usability.
Drivetrain: Do you like big, powerful and high-revving German-engineered powerplants? Of course you do, and Audi knows it. That’s why the R8 4.2 FSI Quattro gets a tweaked version of the brand’s 4.2L V8, now good for 430 horsepower. The V10-powered R8 5.2 FSI Quattro belts out 525 horsepower.
Equipped with the new, efficiency-enhancing 7-speed S-Tronic transmission and standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD), drivers can expect 0-100 km/h in about 4.4 seconds from their R8 4.2, and about 3.7 seconds with the V10-powered R8 5.2. A viscous coupler and limited-slip rear differential maximize traction on any surface.
Both available engines utilize Direct Injection fuel-delivery technology to support their high compression ratios with precise fuel metering, thorough fuel and air mix in the cylinders, and a power-boosting cylinder cooling effect.
Consider it if: you’re after a relative bargain on an extreme-performance supercar that looks fantastic, is absolutely track-ready, and can be driven every day. The R8 is noted for a fantastic balance between performance and comfort, and a larger-than-expected cabin makes it a comfortable tourer, too.
Skip it if: you need a rear seat or large trunk. Also, the hefty price tag will be prohibitive for many shoppers.
Other Notes: Luxurious touches include a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, quilted leather seating surfaces, automatic climate control, and a full, multimedia-linked navigation and infotainment system. Audi’s Magnetic Ride suspension system is also on board, allowing drivers to toggle between “Normal” or “Sport” suspension calibrations at the touch of a button.
Don’t Miss: The aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) that underlies all R8 models weighs just 210 kilograms. New dynamic turn signals use LED lights that move inside to out in the direction the driver wants to turn. Brakes are available made of carbon ceramic composite material for longer life and improved durability for motorsports.
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| Photo: Audi |
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