Hairdressers don’t drive V10’s, especially with wind in the hair drop-tops. Audi has announced that their latest version of its V10-powered second-generation R8 supercar is now available as a convertible.
The R8 Spyder uses the same 5.2 liter aspirated V10 petrol as the coupe, claimed by Audi is 397 kW/540 Nm, producing a zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds (0.1s slower than the coupe), and a top speed of 318 km/h. (Last time I got anywhere near that was driving a Lola T 430 Formula 5000 racing car, and this is now available off the showroom floor for the well-heeled, talent not necessary?!)
The transmission is a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the power going to all four wheels through Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which is capable of sending 100 percent power to either the front or rear wheels, as required.
Fuel economy (if that is important to our well-heeled driver) has improved by 10 percent thanks to the R8’s freewheeling mode, which decouples the engine while coasting and results in a combined fuel economy figure of 11.7 liters per 100 km and emissions of 277 grams of CO2 per km. (and I am yet to find an enthusiast who cares. Tree huggers perhaps.)
Audi claims that 50 percent of the components in this second supercar are based on motor racing technology.
The difficulties involved with raising the rag roof have been overcome, says Audi, the top can be opened or closed in 20 seconds at up to 50 km/h and includes a rear window that can be retracted or extended. The equipment for the roof brings a weight penalty of 50 kg compared to the coupe version.
Inside, drivers are treated to Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster which is projected on a 12.3-inch display and has smartphone integration and a performance-oriented view that displays driving dynamics information.
Making phone calls and voice commands with the roof down is made easier with seatbelt-integrated microphones, while the car’s Bang & Olufsen sound system includes two speakers integrated into the electronically adjustable sport seat’ s headrests.
Futuristic LED lights with laser technology are fitted, which can put out white light four times brighter than traditional LED or Xenon lights. (Oncoming traffic may be less impressed!)
Price in Thailand depends upon Customs duty, but in Australia the V10 coupe is $354,900 before on-roads, while the V10 Spyder and the range-topping V10 Plus coupe, which just edges out the Spyder on cost, have a price tag of approx. $389,900.
