WHERE better for a German car maker to unveil a limited edition model than at the Frankfurt Motor Show? In Germany. Step forward the Audi R8 V10 RWS.
Based on the existing R8 V10, this limited edition will see only 999 examples produced. It will be available as both Coupe and Spyder variants, and all will be hand-built in Germany.
So why is it a limited edition?
According to Audi Sport boss, Stephan Winkelmann, the R8 V10 RWS is “made for purists”. By which he means:
“A limited-edition special model for customers with an appreciation for essential driving enjoyment, the R8 V10 RWS is an absolutely exclusive offer. With its mid-mounted V10 engine and rear-wheel drive, it successfully brings the driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets.”
It’s a rear-wheel drive Audi R8. The famous Quattro is gone, and in its place is a lighter, sharper, rear-wheel drive R8 that promises precision handling.
The Audi R8 V10 RWS will use the same 5.2-litre V10 engine as the standard car, producing 530bhp, but because it doesn’t need to carry the weight of the Quattro four-wheel drive system it’s 50kg lighter – 40kg lighter if you opt for the Spyder. That equates to a more agile driving experience.
Much more agile.
So agile that the chassis setup and control systems allows for controlled drifts if the driver chooses the right options in the dynamic handling system. Although in true Audi fashion, the stability control will step in if it senses things are getting a bit out of hand. Insurance is always a good thing to have, just in case your expectations should ever exceed your ability…
The Audi R8 V10 RWS is differentiated by a matt black grille and matt black air apertures at the front and rear of the car. The upper sideblade of the Coupe version is also finished in gloss black, the lower blade in the body colour. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in leather and Alcantara sport seats with an interior we would expect to be very similar to the standard R8 V10.
Available to order now it’s likely the R8 V10 RWS will sell quickly, especially considering Audi are only asking £110k. We say only, but you know what we mean.
But it will certainly give you Audi R8 exclusivity above and beyond the ‘standard’ R8.
