Audi is working on several new models extending the line-up of their current supercar, the R8. Nothing new to us all, because the R8 V8 Spyder is on its way, rumours about a sportier model of the R8 have been going around for some months now and an E-tron version will be available somewhere between two to three years.
The mysterious R8 prototype – rumoured RS Clubsport – was spotted at the end of October 2009 at the Nurburgring. The vehicle had a different wing setup, modified front bumper and bigger brakes. According to Car and Driver, Lambo’s new Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera and its 570 horsepower V10 gives a glimpse of what to expect regarding Audi’s lightweight R8. So expect only a V10 version inspired by the LMS model.
Secondly, Audi quattro development chief Stefan Reil hinted at a press event at the end of last year, that lightweight versions of the R8 and TT are being considered.
Interesting facts, but they leave us with one question; When are these sports cars hitting the streets? The German car maker will show a less expensive version of the current Spyder, powered by the familiar 420hp, 4.2 liter V8, which should retail for about $135,000 at the end of this year. It will be at dealers in early 2011. The Paris Motor Show would be a possible event for the introduction. The release date of the lightweight version is still unknown.
Company officials also told Car and Driver that Audi plans on replacing the herky-jerky automatic gearbox inside the R8 in favour of the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission available on the Audi S5. It is uncertain if the DCT can handle the amount of torque the V10 engine produces. A combination with only the V8 engine would be a possible option, but it is uncertain if Audi will sell the DCT system on one version only. Time will tell!
One thing is for sure! Audi isn’t finished with its current R8. There is more to come!