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Germany - Audi Sport is extending its R8 model series to include new derivatives with rear-wheel drive. Limited to 999 units globally, the Audi R8 V10 RWS and R8 Spyder V10 RWS will be exclusively rear-driven (Rear Wheel Series). It will be revealed at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show today.
Design and engine
The new R8 variant has a matt black grille and black air vents at the front and rear. The upper sideblade (of the Coupe) is finished in gloss black, the lower blade in body colour.
Similar to the R8 LMS GT 4, the Coupé is available with an optional red accents along the bonnet, roof and rear. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in sport seats covered in leather and Alcantara. Bucket seats are available as an option.
READ: The new Audi R8 isn't just a supercar, it's an occasion
The dashboard bears an emblem “1 of 999,” indicating the limited number of units.
The mid-mounted V10 engine of the Audi R8 V10 RWS produces 397kW and 540Nm. The 5.2 FSI engine powers the Coupé from 0 to 100km/h in 3.7sec (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and beyond to a top speed of 320km/h (Spyder: 318km/h).
Image: Audi
Specially tuned chassis setup allows controlled drifts
The Coupé weighs 1590kg, 50kg less than the R8 Coupé with all-wheel drive which needs additional components like propshaft, multi-plate clutch and centre differential. The Spyder is 40kg lighter than the R8 Spyder V10, weighing in at 1680kg.
The chassis setup and control systems allow controlled drifts if the driver chooses “dynamic” mode in the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system and sets the Stabilisation Control ESC to “Sport”. The ESC intervenes reliably at the limit. The electromechanical power steering is completely free of torque steer and enables precise handling.
The Audi R8 V10 RWS is fitted as standard with black-finished, 19, cast aluminium wheels in a five-spoke V-design, with 245/35 tyres up front and 295/35 at the rear.
Image: Audi