We have a special treat for you all today: two minutes of video featuring the Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI Spider as it attacks the Nürburgring. With the roof sealed throughout the entire footage, we get the chance to see this car in motion from many different angles. The driver of the car did appear to hold back a bit in the corners, due to occasional bursts of rain, but the car's capabilities are pretty evident.
The new V10 convertible is expected to be introduced during September's Frankfurt Motor Show, where it will share the stage with the new Audi A5 Sportback. Contrary to recent reports, Audi does not plan to make the R8 Spider V8 available in the immediate future, but it may become available when the next generation R8 is released. Its engine at launch will be the 5.2-liter V10 producing 525 horsepower, with the six speed manual transmission as standard. Customers will be allowed to purchase the R-tronic transmission, which automatically taps the throttle on each downshift, as an option.
With the big V10 engine, that gets a maximum 391 ft-lb of torque, a top speed just shy of 200 mph is expected. In around four seconds, the car should hit 60 mph from a standstill. Audi's R8 Spider will come with a fabric top, like the rest of their convertibles. They will not offer a folding hard top for the vehicle.
The company has suggested that no official photos or teasers will be released for the new R8 spider before its debut.
There had been speculation that Audi would also debut the 2011 Audi A8 at the Frankfurt show. However, that appears to be untrue. Car and Driver is reporting that the vehicle's launch will take place in early 2010 at the Detroit Auto show. A private introduction may also take place earlier in Florida. The magazine believes the automaker does not want the new A8 to have to compete for attention from Frankfurt. Audi also wants to protect sales of the current A8, and will hold off the launch a bit until interest in the current A8 subside.
zyzyphe
June 18, 2009 8:06 PM
