The uniquely rear-driven Audi R8 Rear Wheel Series struck a chord with supercar traditionalists during its limited production run in 2018, and now the concept is to be permanently reinstated in the range with a new look and a new name. The Audi R8 V10 RWD uses the 540PS version of the latest generation R8 as its basis from a design and technology perspective, and combines all that model’s well documented attributes with rear-drive handling characteristics delivered by a mechanical rear differential and an intelligent stabilisation control system that allows controlled drifting for drivers who occasionally have a circuit to hand.
Those who see a chequered flag on a rather more regular basis are also now catered for by the near-production-level Audi R8 LMS GT4, the customer sport racing car for the international GT4 category which also features rear-wheel drive and is being released at the same time with a new design and optimised vehicle dynamics.
The new design features perfectly highlight the dynamics of the Audi R8 V10 RWD, which is available as a Coupé and Spyder. The Singleframe is broader and flatter, and the slits below the bonnet are reminiscent of the brand’s icon, the Audi Sport quattro.
The heart of the Audi R8 V10 RWD high-performance sports car beats behind the passenger cell. The naturally aspirated V10 delivers lightning-fast response and immense torque to the tune of an incomparable soundtrack. The 5.2 FSI delivers 540PS, and at 6,500 rpm achieves peak torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) that is transferred to the rear wheels via a seven-speed S tronic and a mechanical locking differential.
The GT4 race car, which is directly derived from the production model with about 60 percent carry-over parts and, like the road-going version, is being produced at Böllinger Höfe, is exclusively intended for privateer drivers. Since 2018, the original model has accumulated as many as 17 titles worldwide in racing. The latest generation version takes visual cues directly from the production model, and impresses with driving dynamics that having been further enhanced. The 5.2-litre V10 engine, delivering up to 495PS as specified by the regulations, powers the racing car via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
