With its distinctive shape, unique design, and all-impressive performance the mid-engined R8 demands respect from the super car elite. For 2012 Audi is selling three models of the R8: Coupe, Spyder and GT Spyder. Not much has been altered on the R8 from the previous years, the 4.2-liter FSI V8 and 5.2-liter FSI V10 are both still available in the R8 and Spyder, and both the 6-speed manual and R tronic automatic transmission remain. The 4.2 creates 430 hp and propels the R8 to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 187 mph. V10 powered cars will hit 62 in 3.9 seconds and continue until they top out at 196 mph.
Audi’s impressive quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard on all R8 models and is set up to take advantage of the mid-engine layout of the R8. The system is designed with an 85-percent rear power bias, but the viscous coupling front axle allows for up to 30-percent power at the front wheels during low traction situations. The R8 Spyder is almost mechanically identical to the coupe, but features several external design differentiations. The biggest difference besides the roof, is the omission of the R8’s trademark sideblades.
The R8 GT Spyder is where things get interesting. Available only with the V10 and created in a limited run of only 333 units (most of which already have owners) the GT Spyder is a special piece of German engineering. While the 5.2-liter V10 of the R8 and Spyder turns out 525 hp, the GT has had its engine massaged to produce a much loftier 560 hp. Thanks to a strict diet, the GT has also shed nearly 200 lbs. Thanks to the “more power, less weight” recipe the GT Spyder will accelerate to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and possesses a top speed of 197 mph. This is one quick drop-top indeed. To help bring speeds under control the GT Spyder comes standard with carbon fiber ceramic brakes. A carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) fixed rear wing provides the downforce necessary to keep the rear wheels planted during high-speed driving.
