Automotive Database: Audi R8

Audi R8
Overview
Manufacturer	quattro GmbH (a private subsidiary of Audi AG)
Production	June 2007–present 50,700 built by the end of 2013
Assembly	Neckarsulm, Germany
Designer	Walter de Silva Frank Lamberty (2004)
Body and chassis
Class	Sports car
Body style	2-door coupé 2-door roadster
Layout	Longitudinal mid-engine, quattro permanent all-wheel drive
Related	Audi RSQ Audi Le Mans quattro (Concept) Audi R8 TDI Le Mans (Concept) Lamborghini Gallardo
Powertrain
Engine	4.2 L FSI V8, 2×DOHC 5.2 L FSI V10, 2×DOHC
Transmission	6-speed manual 7-speed manual 6-speed R-Tronic 7-speed S-Tronic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Length	V8 Coupé: 4,431 mm (174.4 in) V10 Coupé: 4,435 mm (174.6 in) V10 Spyder: 4,434 mm (174.6 in)
Width	V8 Coupé & V10 Spyder: 1,904 mm (75.0 in) V10 Coupé: 1,930 mm (76.0 in)
Height	V8 Coupé: 1,249 mm (49.2 in) V10 Coupé: 1,252 mm (49.3 in) V10 Spyder: 1,244 mm (49.0 in)
Curb weight	V8 Coupé: 1,560–1,565 kg (3,439–3,450 lb) V10 Coupé: 1,620–1,625 kg (3,571–3,583 lb) V10 Spyder: 1,720–1,725 kg (3,792–3,803 lb)

The Audi R8 (Typ 42) is a mid-engine, 2-seater sports car, which uses Audi's trademark quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. It was introduced by the German automaker Audi AG in 2006.

The car was exclusively designed, developed, and manufactured by Audi AG's high performance private subsidiary company, quattro GmbH, and is base to the Lamborghini Gallardo platform. The fundamental construction of the R8 is based on the Audi Space Frame, and uses an aluminium monocoque which is built using space frame principles. The car is built by quattro GmbH in a newly renovated factory at Audi's 'aluminium site' at Neckarsulm in Germany.

In 2005, Audi announced that the name of the successful Audi R8 race car would be used for a new road car in 2007, the Audi R8, based on the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car (designed by Frank Lamberty and Julian Hoenig), appearing at the 2003 International Geneva Motor Show, and 2003Frankfurt International Motor Show. The R8 development program began in 2004, Lamberty's design being approved and frozen for production. Production body prototypes began field testing in January 2006. The R8 road car was officially launched at the Paris Auto Show on 30 September 2006. There was some confusion with the name, which the car shares with the 24 Hours of Le Mans winning R8 Le Mans Prototype (LMP). 6-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx described the R8 as "the best handling road car today".

Audi Le Mans quattro (2003)

Audi Le Mans quattro is a coupe with Jet Blue body colour, front curve of the front wings from Audi TT and Audi Nuvolari quattro GT, 20-inch wheels, V10 FSI engine with two turbochargers rated 610 PS (449 kW; 602 hp) and 750 Nm (553.18 lbft), single-frame radiator grille, aluminium sports suspension with magnetic ride shock absorbers, dark interior colours, vehicle body made of aluminium and carbon fibre, interior made of aluminium, rubber and leather.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2003 IAA in Frankfurt.

Initial release

R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro (2006-)

The Original V8 Coupé

The Audi R8 was initially equipped with a 4.2 litre V8 engine. Specifically, it is an all-aluminium alloy 32-valve (four valves per cylinder) petrol engine, utilisingFuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and has a displacement of 4,163 cubic centimetres (254.0 cu in). It develops a motive power output of 420 metric horsepower (309 kW; 414 bhp) (Directive 80/1269/EEC), and generates 430 newton metres (317 lbft) of torque, on 98 RON 'Super Unleaded' petrol. It is basically the same engine used in the Audi B7 RS4, but is modified to use a dry sump lubrication system. This V8 is a highly reworked, high-revving variant of the existing 4.2 litre V8, but includes cylinder-direct fuel injection (Fuel Stratified Injection), and four valves per cylinder, instead of five (as used on the previous non-FSI variants). It also uses two chain-driven double overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank, and utilises variable valve timing for both inlet and exhaust camshafts. The 4 wheel drive system is biased towards the rear; it sends 30% of its power to the front wheels and 70% to the rear.

The two-seat coupé is currently available in Bahrain, Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and South Africa. The R8 Spyder, an open-top roadster model, followed in 2009. In Latin America, the R8 became available at the end of 2008 at dealers in Mexico City, Bogota, Medellin, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Lima, Santiago and Santo Domingo.

R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro (2011-)

On July 1, 2011 Autocar reported that Audi has added the 4.2 FSI V8 engine to the R8 Spyder range. The 434 PS (319 kW; 428 bhp) (up 14 bhp on coupé), 430 newton metres (317 lbft) unit now completes the R8 Spyder range alongside the launch V10 powerplant. It has a 0-62 mph (0–100 km/h) time of 4.8sec and will go on to reach a top speed of 185 mph (299 km/h). The engine is available with Audi's R tronic sequential manual gearbox. Like the V10 model, the V8 Spyder features an aluminium spaceframe with carbon composites and an automatic retractable folding cloth roof.

Audi R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro front view

Audi R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro rear view

R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro (2008-)

The R8 V10 Coupé

Audi AG unveiled the Audi R8 V10 on 9 December 2008. It uses a 5.2 litre FSI engine, based on the unit in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 (which in turn was based on the 5.2 FSI V10 as used in the Audi C6 S6 and Audi D3 S8), but is re-tuned to produce a power output of 532 metric horsepower (391 kW; 525 bhp), and generate 530 newton metres (391 lbft) of torque. Compared to the V8 variant, the R8 V10's performance numbers are enhanced. Audi states the new 0 to 100 kilometres per hour (0.0 to 62.1 mph) time as only 3.9 seconds, 60 to 124 miles per hour (97 to 200 km/h) in 8.1 seconds, and a top speed of 316 kilometres per hour (196.4 mph). Other changes to the V10 version of the R8 include some aesthetic differences: such as all-LED headlights (a world-first), interior enhancements such as Bang & Olufsen 465 watt sound system, and a more aggressive body styling, larger rear brakes and different roadwheels.

It was initially thought that this version of the R8 was going to have the same engine as the C6 Audi RS6, a 5.0 litre V10 TFSI twin-turbo engine, which produces 580 metric horsepower (427 kW; 572 bhp). However, some components of the twin-turbo system overheated, and one prototype was destroyed by fire at the Nürburgring. This model was shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show.

R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro (2009-)

The R8 V10 Spyder

Although it was rumoured by the automotive press since the announcement of the production R8 in 2006, it was only in August 2008 that spy shots of a convertible R8 "Spider" from filming scenes of the movie Iron Man 2 were published online. The photos showed a clearly visible "soft-top" roof, and the distinctive sideblade had been removed. The vehicle was formally unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Compared with the coupé model, the convertible will have extra chassis support, a pair of roll-over safety bars, as well as minor changes such as the location of the fuel filler. It will be powered by a 5.2 FSI V10 engine.

German model launch began in first quarter of 2010, with sales started in the coming days.

UK model was sold for £111,955 OTR (manual) and £117,155 OTR (R tronic).

Audi R8 V12 TDI concept (2008)

This is a concept vehicle version of R8 Coupé with 5,934 cc (5.934 L; 362.1 cu in) V12 twin turbo Diesel engine rated 500 PS (368 kW; 493 hp) and 1,000 Nm (738 lbft)@1750-3000rpm with Euro 6 emissions standard compliance via oxidizing catalyst and particulate filter, matt Grace Silver body colour, 6-speed manual transmission with small-diameter double-plate clutch, quattro permanent all-wheel drive, starting ratio of 40:60.

The vehicle was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2008.

Audi R8 TDI Le Mans (2008)

Audi R8 TDI Le Mans

It is a version of Audi R8 V12 TDI concept with Brilliant Red body colour, rhombus-pattern cover on the air inlets and outlets, continuous aluminum spoiler lip, glass roof of the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections, glazed engine compartment behind seats, NACA duct in the middle of the roof, optional carbon fiber engine liner, LED headlights with color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, 365 mm (14.37 in) three-spoke flat bottom diecast magnesium core sport steering wheel upholstered in Valcona leather, larger aluminum applications at around the center console, 24-piston (total) brake calipers (red six-piston monobloc aluminum front calipers, fixed rear calipers), ventilated carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide ceramic brake discs.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

The development of R8 TDI vehicles was cancelled, citing the cost of re-engineering the petrol R8 to accommodate the massive twin-turbocharged diesel engine is simply too great, and that it would be unable to recoup its investment through sales alone.

R8 LMS (2009-)

Two Audi R8 LMSs competing in the FIA GT3 European Championship

For 2009, Audi announced the production of an R8 LMS racing car, designed for the GT3 rules in the FIA GT3 European Championship and various national racing series. Known within Audi Sport as the 'R16', the R8 LMS features a 500 PS (368 kW; 493 bhp) V10 engine. Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive, Audi had to drop its 'trademark' quattro four-wheel drive system, and the R8 LMS is only available with the typical rear-wheel drive setup. The torque is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The car was manufactured by Audi Sport, quattro GmbH, and Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. (Györ).

The first test races in various European racing series was scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers was planned from the autumn of this coming year. The R8 LMS GT3 was reported to cost $350,000USD. European model was sold for €262,000 (VAT included).

R8 e-tron

R8 e-tron concept (2009)

See also: Audi e-tron

The Audi e-tron concept car was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The all-electric Audi e-tron concept car was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, followed by 2009 LA Auto Show (in orange body colour), and at the 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Audi e-tron is a version of the R8 Coupé with a slightly smaller body, four electric motors rated 317 PS (233 kW; 313 bhp) and 4,500 newton metres (3,319 lbft) of torque. However the proposed torque rating is the torque measured at the wheels, not at the output shaft — as is the industry standard, the true torque rating being around 678 newton metres (500 lbft). Other features include 42.4 kilowatt hours lithium-ion battery, needs-based energy management system, LED technology used for all lighting units, independent cooling system for each axle, doors, covers, sidewalls and roof in fiber-reinforced plastic; 3-mode flush gear selector (forward, reverse and neutral), instrument cluster with fold-out central display with integrated MMI functions, climate control unit located to the right above the steering wheel, racing-inspired lightweight bucket seats, snow white and cognac interior colours, heat pump, climate control system, triangular double wishbones at the front axle and trapezoidal wishbones made of forged aluminum components at the rear axle, direct rack-and-pinion steering with speed-sensitive electromechanical steering boost, 235/35R19 front and 295/30R19 rear tires with a new blade design, prototype of an information processing system (car-to-x communication).

R8 e-tron prototype

Audi R8 e-tron prototype at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Audi originally announced the first e-tron model to be built by quattro GmbH at Neckarsulm, with a small production series beginning in late 2012. The R8 e-tron prototype was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The prototype is based on the R8 and follows closely the original concept, with a shape reminiscent of existing V8 and V10 petrol-powered versions. Audi claims the production version of the R8 e-tron will be capable of a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of around 4.8 seconds, making it only 0.2 seconds slower than the R8 V8. Initial plans call for its top speed to be limited to 124 mph (200 km/h) to protect the charge of the battery. It is planned for launch in early 2012. Along with the R8 e-tron, Audi is also considering small-scale production of a smaller and lighter zero-emission sportscar based on the second e-tron concept displayed at the 2010 Detroit Motor Show.

Production version

In 2010 Audi began a development program with the objective to manufacture a limited edition of the R8 e-tron. On June 26, 2012, one of the earliest R8 e-tron prototypes set a new electric car lap record at the Nürburgring racetrack with a time of 8:09.099.

After developing 10 prototypes for research and development purposes, in May 2013 Audi decided to put on hold the production of the electric car due to its limited all-electric range as battery technology did not advanced as fast as Audi had expected, making the R8 e-tron unviable for series production.

In March 2014 Audi revised its decision and announced it will build the R8 e-tron upon customer request. The carmaker explained that their latest development work resulted in an increased range from 215 km (134 mi) to approximately 450 km (280 mi). The limited production R8 e-tron will be based on the R8 new-generation platform shared with the Lamborghini Huracan.

R8 LMS evolution

Changes to the 2009 R8 LMS include the improvement of the engine cooling system capacity, suspension revisions, race-optimised electronics and exhaust systems, and a 6-speed transmission that can be inspected through an opening in the housing without the need to dismantle the entire assembly. Previous vehicles could be upgraded via an update kit.

The final version of the vehicle was sold for €298,000 (£267,000 in UK), with the first delivery went to American-owned United Autosports team from Yorkshire in England.

R8 GT (2010–2013)

It was to be a limited production of 333 units world wide, 35 UK, 90 USA (however only 19 cars were ever manufactured) this rare version of R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro with curb weight reduced by 100 kg (220 lb) to 1,525 kg (3,362 lb), increased engine power to 560 PS (412 kW; 552 bhp) (367 PS (270 kW; 362 bhp) per ton). Because of these changes the R8 GT has a top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h) and goes from 0–100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0.3 faster than the R8 V10. The car also features some visual changes including red brake caliper covers, a fixed rear wing, front bumper mounted winglets and GT badges replacing the V10 ones.

The vehicle was unveiled in Wörthersee Tour 2010 (in Orange).

The vehicle was released as 2012 model year car for $239,000 (excluding $1,250 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges).

Audi R8 GT front view

Audi R8 GT rear view

Audi R8 GT interior

Audi R8 GT V10 FSI engine

Registry:

006: White – Bangladesh
026: White – Germany
038: White - Brazil
069: White – Australia
075: White - Europe
086: Matte Grey – USA
089: Orange – Brazil
090: Orange – Canada
128: Silver – Canada
160: White - USA
171: White - Malaysia
203: Red - UAE
217: Black – USA
238: Matte Grey - Canada
257: White – USA
272: Black – USA
274: Orange – Brazil
275: White – USA
276: White – USA
281: Matte White - UAE
318: Matte Grey - USA

R8 'NF' prototype (2011)

Audi R8 V10

The “NF” (i.e. "Nachfolger" or simply "follower") prototype is a lighter weight version of R8 with reported greater use of the lightweight carbon fiber-reinforced polymer.

The vehicle identified as R8 NF was featured on a timeline describing the proliferation of carbon-fiber in vehicles such as the R8 and highlighted the carbon-fiber engine cover on the R8 Spyder, the roof of the R8-based E-Tron and the various pieces found on the limited-run R8 GT, amongst others. Denoted at the 2014 mark was the NF, or more specifically, the passenger section. The prototype was reported to be up 20% (325 kg (717 lb)) lighter than an aluminum-bodied R8.

The photo released by Audi showed a white R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro, which implied that the NF would feature a new carbon-fiber rear bulkhead between the seat backs and the engine compartment and showed the carbon-fiber piece extending into the lower B-pillar. Audi would not elaborate on the image, but the car in photo was identified as a vehicle related to the NF project, but not the NF.

The vehicle was presented in Audi's lightweight research and production plant in Neckarsulm, Germany.

R8 GT Spyder

It is a limited (333 units, 50 in USA) production vehicle that combines the improvements in R8 GT with a convertible body. The German model went on sale for base price of €207,800.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2011 at Le Mans.

US model went on sale as 2012 Model Year vehicle, with delivery beginning in February 2012.

R8 V8 Limited Edition (2011-)

It is a limited (100 units) version of R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro for the UK market, commemorating the tenth victory for Audi in 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon race. It included titanium body colour option (no-cost optional metallic and pearl effect paint options, Titanium Metallic at cost), titanium finish 19-inch '5-arm double-spoke Y design' alloy wheels (from R8 GT Coupe), red brake callipers, satellite navigation, the Audi Music Interface (AMI), an interior light package, a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system, mobile phone preparation via a Bluetooth interface with integrated seat-belt microphones, Audi magnetic ride adaptive suspension system, Black Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered seats and headrests with crimson red accents and red contrast stitching, red stitching on leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and instrument cowl, crimson red leather upholstery on monoposto, knee pads and passenger door handle in red leather, floor mats have a red surround and feature the R8 logo in silver, stainless steel pedals and illuminated door sills with bright aluminium inserts carrying the R8 logo, optional Carbon Package (carbon sigma sideblades, door mirrors, monoposto, inlays and door sill trims, illuminated engine bay), bespoke R8 Driving Experience at Silverstone Circuit.

The vehicle was available to order from July 2011, with UK deliveries began in October.

R8 Grand-Am (2012-)

As part of NASCAR's embracing of GT3 in their Grand American Road Racing Association Rolex Series races, GT3 cars are permitted to run with slight restrictions as the "national" GT3 in the United States. This version (Grand-Am) features an engine with its power reduced from 470 PS (346 kW; 464 bhp) to 450 PS (331 kW; 444 bhp) via air restrictor and the engine electronics, a reduced fuel tank capacity of 83.3 litres, three-part rims for wheels and suspension, and deactivated anti-lock system and traction control (NASCAR/Grand-Am does not permit either traction control nor anti-lock brakes). Additional changes include loss of aerodynamic grip via smaller front splitter and rear diffuser, stiffer roll cages, an Earnhardt bar (anti-intrusion bars on the windscreen), and side window nets on both sides, both of which are required in the Rolex Series. As is the rule, a specification Continental tyre is used. Compared to the Audi R8 LMS ultra, the R8 Grand AM has lower down force.

This model made debut in 50th Daytona 24 Hours in January 2012.

Audi R8 Limited Edition (2012-)

It is a limited (30 units) version of R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro for China market. It included Nordic gold body colour, front and rear air intakes/outlets and lightweight tailpipes are in matt black, front and rear slats and rear bumper (partially) in matt titanium grey; front spoiler, flics, sideblades, exterior mirrors, fixed rear wing, enlarged diffuser in carbon matt; radiator grille in matt black; radiator grille surround and bars in matt titanium grey, 19" wheels in 5 twin-spoke “Y” design in titanium look, aluminum gear knob with limited edition number from 1 up to 99 without number 4, 14 and 24; sports bucket seats in black Alcantara with contrasting stitching and piping in trim colour, headlining in Alcantara with contrasting stitching, knee pad in shark skin black with contrast stitching, centre console inlays and door trim inserts in body colour, monoposto and door pulls use inlays in carbon matt, doors and centre console are in body colour, instrument cluster with black dials and R8 emblem, door sill trims with aluminium insert and R8 logo, R tronic transmission.

The vehicle was unveiled 2011 Guangzhou Auto Show.

R8 LMS ultra (2012-)

The R8 LMS ultra

It is a version of Audi R8 LMS with CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) doors with high-energy absorbing new crash foams, new PS1 safety seat developed by Audi, updated transmission provides additional reserves on long-distance runs, increased engine power to 570 PS (419 kW; 562 bhp) (depending on restrictor regulations) with higher torque at lower engine speeds, a larger engine oil cooler and transmission fluid cooler, relocated steering hydraulics oil cooler to the vehicle's midsection, enlarged air vents, improved air flow to radiator and interior, front 12-inch wheels with Michelin 30-65/18 tires, optimized brake cooling at the front wheels, uniball joints transverse control arm mounts, weight-reduced compression and rebound-adjustable gas dampers from Bilstein, wider front hood with louvers, new wider rear wing with larger end plates, new front plate with optimized diffusion under the front end. Previous vehicles could be upgraded via an update kit.

The vehicle was sold for €329,900.00 plus VAT, with delivery began in March 2012.

R8 Exclusive Selection Editions (2012)

They are limited versions of 2012 R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro (20 units) and 2012 R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro (30 units) for the US market.

2012 Exclusive Selection Edition R8 V8 includes Daytona Gray matte body colour, carbon fiber exterior splitter and diffuser, 19-inch titanium five-arm double spoke wheels, black grille surround, black exhaust finishers, R8 GT tail lamps, red brake calipers, exclusive leather package with Crimson Red elements and contrast stitching, exclusive leather Navigation surround, a thicker contoured leather multifunctional steering wheel, Carbon Fiber elements, Bang & Olufsen Sound System and Navigation with the Audi Music Interface.

2012 Exclusive Selection Edition R8 V10 includes Ibis white exterior and Brilliant Black features (sideblade, exterior mirrors, rear license plate surround), R8 GT tail lamps, 19-inch bi-color e-tron wheels, Ibis interior upholstery with Alabaster White contrast stitching, Carbon Fiber monoposto driver's cockpit, exclusive leather Navigation surround and contoured steering wheel.

Both models include a six-speed manual or automatic R tronic transmission.

Audi R8 China Edition (2012-)

A limited edition (80 units) of R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro was built for the China market. It included a choice of two body colors (Malibu blue body with Suzuka grey rocker panel side blades, or Suzuka grey body with Malibu blue side blades), 19-inch high-gloss black wheel hubs in a five twin-spoke "Y" design, fixed spoiler in carbon matte, shark skin upholstery with colored stitching, handbrake and steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara, instrument shield in carbon matte, aluminum gear knob engraved with characters "R8 专享" and the serial numbers had any "4" removed (considered an unlucky number in China), seat heating function, and R tronic transmission.

Audi R8 Tuning

Audi R8 popularity forced the top European tuners to create different customization options for the car. Both interior and exterior design of the car could be changed in order to better the vision and make the car even more distinctive. Moreover packages to increase the overall performance are also available that enables the car to reach a maximum speed of around 40 km/h more than the non-tuning version. Also handling and braking are improved significantly.

Police Car

It is a police car based on the ABT R8 GTR vehicle, which is a modified version of Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro. It includes increased engine power to 620 PS (456 kW; 612 bhp) and 550 Nm (406 lbft), 19-inch wheels with Hankook 235/35 Z19 and HA 305/30 Z19 tires, ceramic brake pads, stainless steel sport exhaust system, ABT sports suspension, ABT damper, Carbon body kit from ABT, Recaro racing seats ABT, ABT sports steering wheel in carbon, Roll-over bar, stainless steel belt clip, 4-point harness system.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2011 Essen Motor Show.

Specifications

Engine

Model	Configuration, Displacement	Power @ rpm	Torque @ rpm
R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro	4,163cc (254.0 cu in) V8 32v DOHC	430PS (316kW; 424bhp) @ 7900	430Nm (317lbft) @4500-6000
R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro	4,163cc (254.0 cu in) V8 32v DOHC	430PS (316kW; 424bhp) @ 7900	430Nm (317lbft) @4500-6000
R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro	5,204cc (5,204 cu in) V10 40v DOHC	525PS (386kW; 518bhp) @ 8000	530Nm (391lbft) @ 6500
R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro		525PS (386kW; 518bhp) @ 8000	530Nm (391lbft) @ 6500
R8 GT		650PS (412kW; 552bhp) @ 8000	540Nm (398lbft) @ 6500
R8 GT Spyder		650PS (412kW; 552bhp) @ 8000	540Nm (398lbft) @ 6500
R8 e-tron concept (2009)	4xasynchronous Electric motors, 53 kWh (42.4kWh usable) lithium-ion battery	313 PS (230 kW; 309 bhp) @n/a	4500Nm (3,31903lbft)
R8 LMS (2011 GT3)	5,200cc (320 cu in) V8 32v DOHC	496 PS (365 kW; 489 bhp) to 570 PS (419 kW; 562 bhp) @?	500Nm (369lbft)
R8 LMS ultra (2012 GT3)	5,200 cc (5.2 L; 320 cu in) V10 40 valve DOHC	570 PS (419 kW; 562 bhp) @?	over 500 Nm (369 lbft) @?
R8 GRAND-AM (2012)	5,200 cc (5.2 L; 320 cu in) V10 40 valve DOHC	570 PS (419 kW; 562 bhp) @?	over 500 Nm (369 lbft) @?

Performance

Model	0-100km/h (62mph) (s)	0-200km/h (120mph) (s)	¼ miles (0.4km) (s)	Top speed
R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro	4.6	14.9	12.5	322km/h (200.08mph) MY2012: 302km/h (187.65))
R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro	4.8	n/a	n/a	300km/h (186.41mph)
R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro	3.7 (MY2012: 3.9)	11.8	11.5	333km/h (206.92mph) (MY2012: 316km/h (196.35mph))
R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro	4.1	n/a	n/a	317km/h (196.97mph) (MY2012: 313km/h (194.49mph))
R8 GT	3.6	10.8	11.5	340km/h (211.27mph) (MY2012: 320km/h (198.84mph))
R8 GT Spyder	3.8	n/a	?	317km/h (196mph)
R8 e-tron concept (2009)	4.8	n/a	n/a	200km/h (124.27mph)
R8 LMS (2011 GT3)	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
R8 LMS ultra (2012 GT3)	?	?	?	?
R8 GRAND-AM (2012)	?	?	?	?

Dimension and Weight

Model	Length, Width, Height	Curb weight (R-Tronic, manual -5kg)
R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro	L: 4,431 mm (174.4 in) W: 1,904 mm (75.0 in) H: 1,252 mm (49.3 in)	1,565 kg (3,450.23 lb) (MY2012: 1,640 kg (3,615.58 lb))
R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro	n/a	1,740 kg (3,836.04 lb)
R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro	L: 4,434 mm (174.6 in) W: 1,930 mm (76.0 in) H: 1,252 mm (49.3 in)	1,625 kg (3,582.51lb) (MY2012: 1,700 kg (3,747.86 lb))
R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro	n/a	1800 kg (3,968.32 lb)
R8 GT	L: 4,434 mm (174.6 in) W: 1,930 mm (76.0 in) H: 1,242 mm (48.9 in)	1,525 kg (3,362.05 lb) (MY2012: 1,600 kg (3,527.40 lb))
R8 GT Spyder	L: 4,434 mm (174.6 in) W: 2,029 mm (79.9 in) (mirror-mirror) H: 1,234 mm (48.6 in) (closed roof)	1,640 kg (3,615.58 lb) (MY2012: 1,715.kg (3,780.93 lb))
R8 e-tron concept (2009)	n/a	~1,600 kg (3,527.40 lb)
R8 LMS (2011 GT3)	L: 4,475 mm (176.2 in) W: 1,994 mm (78.5 in) H: 1,195 mm (47.0 in) (closed roof)	1,290 kg (2,843.96 lb)*
R8 LMS ultra (2012 GT3)	4,670×1,994×1,195 mm (183.9×78.5×47.0 in)	1,250 kg (2,755.78 lb) (minimum)
R8 GRAND-AM (2012)	4,470×1,994×1,195 mm (176.0×78.5×47.0 in)	1,280 kg (2,821.92 lb) (minimum)

Transmissions

Models	Types
R8 Coupé 4.2 FSI quattro	6-speed manual, 6-speed R-Tronic
R8 Spyder 4.2 FSI quattro	6-speed manual, 6-speed R-Tronic
R8 Coupé 5.2 FSI quattro	6-speed manual, 6-speed R-Tronic
R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro	6-speed manual, 6-speed R-Tronic
R8 GT	6-speed R-Tronic
R8 GT Spyder	6-speed R-Tronic
R8 e-tron	?
R8 LMS (2011 GT3)	6-speed sequential
R8 LMS ultra (2012 GT3)	pneumatically actuated 6-speed sequential sports transmission with paddle shift
R8 GRAND-AM (2012)	pneumatically actuated 6-speed sequential sports transmission with paddle shift

The transmission options are either a Lamborghini sourced six-speed manual gearbox with metal gate for the shift lever, or an Audi-developed R tronic gearbox—which is a semi-automatic, without a traditional clutch pedal with automatic gears shifting mode.

Equipment

The R8 also features a distinctive curved bar of LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) mounted inside the xenon HID headlamp casings.

The R8, like most mid- or rear-engine designed sports cars, utilises wider roadwheels and tyres on its rear axle. For the 18-inch alloy wheels (on standard summer tyres), there is just one range of sizes—the fronts are sized at 8.5J×18H2 ET42, whilst the rears are two inches wider at 10.5Jx18H2 ET50. With the 19-inch wheels (standard fit in most markets), the theme continues—the fronts are all 8.5J×19H2 ET42, and the rears are 11.0Jx19H2 ET50. 19-inch wheels for the winter tyre package have a ½" narrower rear compared to the summer tyre wheel package. There is also a corresponding difference in tyre sizes—18's are 235/40 ZR18 95Y XL (eXtra Load) in front and 285/35 ZR18 101Y XL at the rear. For the 19-inch tyres, two different options are available—all fronts are235/35 ZR19 91Y, and the rears are either 295/30 ZR19 100Y XL or 305/30 ZR19 102Y XL. Standard factory supplied tyre makes offered are either Continental SportContact3 or Pirelli P-Zero Rosso.

Motorsport

R8 LMS (GT3)

Audi R8 GT3 front angle

Audi R8 GT3 side view

The first Audi R8 LMS (chassis number 101) was delivered to Audi Sport Italia in 2009.

Despite the development of the car, Audi itself had stated not to enter any races with the new GT3 car as an official 'factory' team. The car was unveiled at Essen Motor Show.

In the 2009 24 Hours Nürburgring, and preceding VLN endurance races, Audi privateer teams had entered four cars, operated by the Abt Sportsline and Nürburging-based Phoenix race teams. Until the 19th hour, two of these R8 remained challengers for the lead, against two Manthey-operated Porsche GT3 in the same lap, before the leading #99 car suffered suspension problems. The #97 finished 2nd, and despite electrical and gearbox problems, the other two cars finished 23rd or better.

Australian Mark Eddy participated in the 2010 Australian GT Championship with the first R8 LMS in the Southern Hemisphere. In the 2010 24 Hours Nürburgring, the first four spots on the grid were occupied by Audi R8.

Audi's Le Mans 24 Hour team, Joest Racing ran a pair of R8 LMS GT3's in the 2011 Bathurst 12 Hour held at the Mount Panorama Circuit, Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia on 6 February 2011. The #7 R8 driven by an all-Australian crew of Mark Eddy, multiple Bathurst 1000 winner Craig Lowndes and Warren Luff qualified on pole alongside team mates Marc Basseng, Christopher Mies and Darryl O'Young in the #8 car. Bessing, Miles and O'Young won the race from Eddy, Lowndes & Luff by just 0.71 seconds with Lowndes setting the races fastest lap and a new class lap record of 2:09.0861 for the 6.213 km long circuit on lap 267 of the 292 ran in the 12 hour time frame. FIA GT3 and Australian GT Championship cars were included in the 12 Hour for the first time in 2011. The race had previously been the domain of Group 3E Series Production Cars. Phoenix Racing returned to the event in 2012 and won the event again with Christopher Mies, Darryl O'Young and Christer Joens.

Audi R8 LMS ultra

In the 2012 24 Hours of Nürburgring (the 40th edition of the race), Audi secured its first-ever victory and a 1-2 finish in the 24-hour classic with a Phoenix team consisting of Marc Basseng, Christopher Haase, Frank Stippler and Markus Winkelhock taking the top spot of the podium and Christian Abt, Michael Ammermüller, Armin Hahne and Christian Mamerow of the Mamerow racing team (which used a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG last year) taking second.

Phoenix Racing went on to win the 2012 24 Hours of Spa in an Audi R8 LMS Ultra in the hands of Andrea Piccini, Rene Rast and Frank Stippler. They were closely followed by fellow Audi Sport team, W Racing Team.

Audi R8 Grand-Am

In the 2012 Rolex Sports Car Series Rolex 24 at Daytona race, Team APR Motorsport finished in 31st place with its drivers Ian Baas (USA)/Nelson Canache (YV)/Dion von Moltke (ZA)/Dr. Jim Norman (USA)/Emanuele Pirro (I). Oryx Racing came home in 32nd place with Humaid Al Masaood (UAE)/Saeed Al Mehairi (UAE)/Steven Kane (GB). Both teams drove the 480 PS (353 kW; 473 bhp) version of the car.

In 2013, Audi won the GT class of the Rolex 24 in a 1-2 finish with Alex Job Racing (drivers Filipe Albuquerque, Oliver Jarvis, Edoardo Mortara and Dion von Moltke) and APR Motorsport (drivers Ian Baas, Marc Basseng, Rene Rast and Frank Stippler.