Puristic driving dynamics: The new Audi R8 V10 RWS

The new Audi R8 V10 RWS (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.6–12.4 [US mpg: 18.7–19.0], combined CO₂ emissions in g/km: 286–283 (g/mi: 460.3–455.4) is being launched as part of a limited series of 999 models as a Coupé and a Spyder. With this launch, Audi Sport GmbH is expanding its R8 model series with a new derivative. The new model is produced exclusively by hand at the “Böllinger Höfe” R8 manufacturing site, and has rear-wheel drive (Rear Wheel Series).

“The Audi R8 V10 RWS successfully brings the drive concept of our R8 LMS GT4 racing car onto the road,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Head of Technical Development at Audi Sport GmbH. “The V10 engine is not just one of the last naturally aspirated engines in its segment, it is also used in racing with an almost identical construction to the mass-production model. We have only made minimal adjustments to comply with regulations.”

5.2 FSI – one of the last naturally aspirated engines in its segment
The V10 mid-mounted engine of the Audi R8 V10 RWS delivers 397 kW (540 hp). It delivers its maximum torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) at 6,500 revolutions per minute. The 5.2 FSI engine accelerates the Coupé from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.7 seconds (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.8 mph) (Spyder: 318 km/h [197.6 mph]). With the roof closed, the average fuel consumption is 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (19.0 US mpg) (283 grams CO₂ per kilometer [455.4 g/mi]) and 12.6 liters (18.7 US mpg) (286 grams CO₂ per kilometer [460 g/mi]) for the open-top R8 V10 RWS.

A specially tuned suspension setup enables controlled drifts
The new Audi R8 Coupe V10 RWS weighs 1,590 kilograms (3,505.3 lb) (curb weight without driver). That is 50 kilograms (110.2 lb) less than the Audi R8 Coupe V10 with quattro drive, which needs additional components compared to the rear-wheel drive variant, such as a cardan shaft, multi-plate clutch and front-axle differential. The R8 Spyder V10 RWS is 40 kilograms (88.2 lb) lighter than the R8 Spyder V10, tipping the scales at 1,680 kilograms (3703.8 lb) (curb weight without driver). The axle load distribution of 40.6:59.4 (Coupé) or 40.4:59.6 (Spyder), and a suspension and dynamic handling system specially adapted to the rear-wheel drive, ensure tremendous driving pleasure.

The suspension setup and the control systems enable controlled drifts. To perform these maneuvers, the driver selects “dynamic” in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, which is fitted as standard, and activates ESC sport mode. When the limit is reached, the ESC stability control will engage safely. The electromechanical power steering enables precise handling.

The Audi R8 V10 RWS (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.6–12.4 [18.7–19.0 US mpg], combined CO₂ emissions in g/km: 286–283 [460.3–455.4 g/mi])runs on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels with a five-spoke V-design painted in black. The front tires are 245/35 and the rear tires are 295/35.

Matte black design elements, optional racing stripe
The puristic character of the new R8 variant is accentuated by the matte black single-frame grille and the matte black air openings at the front and rear. The upper side blade (on the Coupé) is painted in glossy black, while the lower blade is the same color as the vehicle. As with the Audi R8 LMS GT4, the Audi R8 V10 RWS Coupé also comes with the option of a racing stripe in Misano Red that runs over the bonnet, roof and rear.

In the vehicle interior, the driver and passenger sit on sport seats. These are covered with leather and Alcantara. Bucket seats are available on request. The dashboard bears an emblem that reads “1 of 999” – a reference to the limited quantity of this vehicle.

The new Audi R8 V10 RWS has been available to order in Germany and other European countries since fall of 2017, and is on the road since early 2018. The basic price for the Coupé is
140,000 euro, and the Spyder starts at 153,000 euro.

All terms marked in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.