The supercar or R8 as it is called, is Audi's response to other hot rod vehicles like Corvette, Viper and other high powered performance vehicles on the market. These vehicles roots come from the Lamborghini Gallardo and with the Audi touch comes a very nice vehicle that offer the highest levels of performance and looks that could kill. This may be one of Audi's more expensive vehicles starting around $150,000 but it is very reasonably priced when compared to other supercars in its class.
You can get this vehicle equipped with either a V-8 or V-10 engine and the magnesium space frame sheds off plenty of extra pounds to make this vehicle fast, light and a cornering machine thanks to Audi's Quattro all wheel drive system. The R8 Spyder has been around for a while and each year there are some mild cosmetic changes to the body and engine, but there is no reason to change perfection. Don't plan on packing away much luggage in the trunk or getting a fuel efficient ride from this rocket with seats.
The Range
Bodystyles: Coupe, Convertible
Engines: 4.2L V-8, 5.2L V-10
Transmissions: 6-speed single-clutch automatic, 6-speed manual
Models: R8, R8 5.2, R8 Spyder 5.2
What's New
After launching the new V-10 engine last year, the R8 model gets another update with the new convertible model, called the R8 Spyder 5.2. Mechanically, it's identical to the R8 5.2 with its V-10 engine and Audi's signature quattro all-wheel drive. Cutting off the roof and adding a power folding top and the requisite chassis reinforcements adds about 200 pounds to the R8's curb weight.
Exterior
The 2011 Audi R8 is an eminently styled coupe with strong Coke bottle curves and near-perfect proportions. The V-10 and Spyder models receive unique wheels, grille, headlights and side scoops.
Interior
Leather-wrapped power seats are standard, as is climate control, navigation, Bluetooth, a multi-function steering wheel and a premium stereo. An optional convenience package adds a rear view camera, hill hold and heated, auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors.
Performance & Handling
The 2011 Audi R8 is already a potent street and track machine with its 4.2-liter V-8 developing 420 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, but the truly power-mad will opt for the 525 horsepower 5.2L V-10 with its 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to either a 6-speed single-clutch automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.
Safety
Both passengers get front, side thorax, side curtain and knee airbags. Electronic traction control and stability control are standard, as is Audi's Crash Sensor, which unlocks the doors and turns off the engine and fuel pump.
EPA Fuel Economy
R8 Manual: 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway
R8 Automatic: 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway
R8 5.2 Manual: 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway
R8 5.2 Automatic: 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway
R8 Spyder Manual: 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway
R8 Spyder Automatic: 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Great styling
- Great engines
- Great handling
- Did we mention that styling?
You Won't Like
- Not much storage space
- Could use a dual-clutch transmission
- Supercar fuel economy
Sum Up
As accessible as supercars get
If You Like This Vehicle
- Lamborghini Gallardo
- Ferrari 458 Italia
- Nissan GT-R
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
- Porsche 911