German automaker Audi has unveiled the new Audi R8 Spyder at the ongoing New York International Auto Show 2016. The first-generation R8 Spyder came up on the horizon in 2010 and it got its last update in 2012. The new model is strikingly different from the outgoing one.
Talking about the exterior dimensions, it measures 4,426 millimetres in length, which is 14 millimetres shorter than the first-gen R8 Spyder. Meanwhile, it has grown by 36 millimetres in width to 1,940 millimetres, but the height and wheelbase remain unchanged at 1,244 millimetres and 2,650 millimetres respectively. The exterior look and the cabin are similar to the second-gen R8 coupe.
Meanwhile, the newly developed hood, which is available in three colours (black, brown and red), is made of cloth and weighs just 44 kilograms. The soft top closes and opens in just 20 seconds and can be done while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h. The new chassis means the new R8 Spyder is 50 percent more rigid. In addition to that, it has a dry weight of just 1,612 kg- giving it a great power-to-weight ratio.
Under the hood is the same 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 found in the coupe that produces 540 hp and 540 Nm of torque. This allows the second-generation R8 Spyder V10 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 11.8 seconds and finally limit out at 318 km/h. Power is directed to all the wheels of the car via the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Audi hasn’t stated whether the convertible will also get the 610 hp engine found in the V10 Plus, which will surely make it a more lucrative product to the customers.
Compared with the previous model, the fuel consumption has been cut by ten percent, which has been made possible by using technologies like cylinder on demand, the dual injection system and the freewheeling mode. Consequently, the R8 Spyder consumes 11.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometres and produces 277 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
Customers will get option for 19- or 20- inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, front spoiler, and diffuser. Also, the side-blades can be customized in high-gloss carbon-fibre.
