Lack of engine noise is often touted as a positive element of EVs, however, for those who have petrol running through their veins, this signifies a loss of the all-encompassing driving experience. Now, Audi has taken a detour from their AWD quattro models and continued foray into the EV market with a classic release sure to appease passionate petrol lovers.
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Designed to complement the quattro model, the new Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD comes in both coupé and spyder iterations. The rear-wheel-drive model houses a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 FSI that produces 570 hp and 406 ft-lb torque, a slight increase from the Audi R8 V10 RWD it’s replacing. With a top speed of 329km/h (327km/h for the spyder) the coupé goes from 0-100km/h in just 3.7 seconds (with a 0.1 second loss on the open-top model).
The implementation of an improved mechanical limited-slip differential works to distribute the torque based on the driving situation at hand, making tight corners, slippery roads, and hard acceleration a breeze. Following suit with other Audi R8s, the body is built from aluminium utilising the Audi Space Frame design, while large parts are crafted from carbon fibre and reinforced plastic. This method makes for a lightweight result; the coupé weighs in at just 1590kg while the spyder is 1695kg.
Alterations to the Sport Mode make controlled drifting possible for all, with double-wishbone suspension specifically adapted for rear-wheel-drive. Available for the first time on a RWD R8, dynamic steering in the Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD allows for increased precision on curvy roads as well as a more comfortable experience when parking and manoeuvring.
The exterior design draws inspiration from the Audi GT4 line, with sporty design elements including a broad, flat Singleframe radiator grille finished in matte black; an R8 emblem on the large air intakes; a front splitter; a rear outlet grid; and oval tailpipes. Defined by tight, clean lines, the sporty approach continues inside with the cockpit reminiscent of a racecar.
Unfortunately, the Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD won’t be available down under, with the model pulled due to not meeting specific emissions requirements. However, those in Germany are provided with a chance to get their hands on what is likely one of the last few Audi V10s, with the German marque swiftly moving towards a more electric lineup. The base price for the coupé is €149,000, with the spyder starting at €162,000.
Words by AR Staff
