Autoblog

Which Spyder is the fastest? EVO finds out [UPDATE]

Zach Bowman — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Videos, Porsche

At first glance, pitting the Porsche Boxster Spyder against the Audi R8 Spyder is a bit like throwing a trout in a five-gallon bucket with a piranha. After all, the big Audi boasts over 100 horsepower more than the baby Porsche. Throw in the fact that the R8 puts its power to the ground through all four wheels while the Boxster Spyder is left to manage with just two, and the fight looks even more bleak for Stuttgart's finest. Still, the Audi R8 Spyder isn't a lightweight by any stretch of the imagination. The vehicle needs all 430 horsepower from its 4.2-liter V8 to move the sports car's 3,858 pounds around the track.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder, meanwhile, weighs in at over 1,000 pounds lighter. That 100 horsepower gap doesn't seem so big now, does it? EVO Magazine recently took the time to put the two vehicles to the test and worked up a quick video of their exploits. Who came out on top? ~~You'll just have to hit the jump to find out for yourself.~~

UPDATE: EVO's embed code is busted, so click through to watch the video.

Which Spyder is the fastest? EVO finds out [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi releases full details on R8 GT Spyder

Drew Phillips — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 04:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi

2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi first let on that it would be producing a droptop version of its limited-edition R8 GT when it released a few sketches of the car back in April, and the recent spy shots of a test mule roaming the streets were evidence that a production version was close at hand. Audi has finally made things official and released full details of the new V10-powered convertible.

Much of what made the R8 GT Coupe special stands true for the Spyder. Audi's main focus was on weight reduction, and by using a variety of lightweight materials it has managed to remove 85 kilograms off the total weight of the car. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic plays a large role in dropping the pounds, making up the cover for the soft top, the rear spoiler and the rear bumper. The largest weight-savers are the seats, though, which shed nearly 70 pounds.

Visually, the R8 GT Spyder sets itself apart with a dual-lip front spoiler, carbon fiber winglets on the front bumper, round tailpipes, a larger rear diffuser and dark LED taillights. Power output is identical to the coupe, with the 5.2-liter V10 producing 560 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. Audi claims a 0-100 kilometer per hour (62 miles per hour) time of just 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 197 mph. We're assuming that's with the top up...

Like the coupe, production will be extremely limited, with just 333 units scheduled for production. That exclusivity will surely carry a hefty price tag, and while pricing has yet to be announced for the U.S. market (its 207,800 Euro tag in Germany translates to over $300,000), and we expect it to carry a premium over the coupe's $198,000 MSRP. Follow the jump for the official PR and more details on the Audi R8 GT Spyder.

Continue reading Audi releases full details on R8 GT Spyder

Audi releases full details on R8 GT Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 04:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: The Smoking Tire drives Stasis' 710-hp Audi R8 Spyder

Jeff Glucker — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, Videos, Audi

The Smoking Tire's Matt Farah spends some time with the 710 hp Stasis R8 - Click above to watch video after the jump

Matt Farah gets his mitts on tons of great rides, and we're thankful that he puts them on camera for us all to enjoy. This time around, Matt was handed the keys to Stasis' Audi R8 Spyder. The crew at Stasis set to work on the 5.2-liter roadster, adding a supercharger, suspension upgrades, larger wheels and an exhaust that breathes a little easier. The result is a 710-horsepower ragtop rocketship. The car seems to be so much fun to drive that Farah is often reduced to uncontrollable giggles. But seriously, who can blame him? We'd likely have the same reaction.

Hop the jump to watch Matt Farah have some canyon-carving fun courtesy of the Stasis Audi R8.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: The Smoking Tire drives Stasis' 710-hp Audi R8 Spyder

Video: The Smoking Tire drives Stasis' 710-hp Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Audi announces 4.2 V8-powered R8 Spyder

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi

Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

After running around the rumormill for several months, Audi has finally confirmed it will offer a 4.2-liter V8 powered version of the R8 Spyder, in addition to the V10 model. Thankfully, the R8 Spyder 4.2 is available with a six-speed manual in addition to the R-Tronic semi-automatic gearbox.

Like other R8s - ~~with the exception of~~ including the recently announced GT - the 4.2 Spyder is packing standard Quattro all-wheel drive and the top mechanism remains the same fully-powered fabric unit found in the V10 model. Those who opt for the lesser engine will have to make do with conventional dampers and 18-inch wheels, although the magnetic ride dampers and 19-inch rolling stock that are standard on the V10 are available at a "slight" increase in cost. The eight-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) calipers remain standard issue with the optional carbon ceramic rotors and pads still available as an option in Europe. Since Audi has not issued any new images of the Spyder 4.2 yet, there are probably no visual differences aside from the wheels and badging.

The V8 Spyder goes on sale in Europe in the third quarter, but no announcement has been made about U.S. availability... yet.

Gallery: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Officially Official: Audi announces 4.2 V8-powered R8 Spyder

Officially Official: Audi announces 4.2 V8-powered R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Fifth Gear pits Audi R8 Spyder vs. Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 20:05:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Videos, Audi, Porsche

Fifth Gear compares the Audi R8 V10 against the Porsche 911 Turbo - Follow the jump to watch the video

The problem with physics is that it is largely immutable. Less mass plus more low-end torque and comparable power generally equates to better performance. Take, for example, the Porsche 911 Turbo convertible and the Audi R8 V10 Spyder. As much as we love the design of the R8, it is rather porky at 3,792 pounds. At 3,627 pounds, the Turbo convertible is probably the heaviest 911 ever, but it's still got a 165-pound advantage over the Audi.

The Audi's V10 produces 525 horsepower to the 500 hp of the 911, although Porsche's ratings are generally considered to be conservative. On the other hand, the V10 only produces 390 pound-feet of torque with a peak at 6,500 rpm. The turbocharged and direct injected flat-six of the 911 cranks out 480 lb-ft at just 1,950 rpm.

As the gang from Fifth Gear found out, this adds up to a measurable advantage in acceleration, braking and track times for the rear-engined machine, although the Porsche did seem to be a bit more challenging to drive fast. Check out the video after the jump for the full results.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Fifth Gear pits Audi R8 Spyder vs. Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet

Video: Fifth Gear pits Audi R8 Spyder vs. Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jun 2010 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: A look inside the Audi R8 Spyder production plant

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 24 May 2010 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Plants/Manufacturing, Videos, Audi, Luxury

A look at the Audi R8 Spyder being built - Click above to watch video after the jump

What we dig about European plants that build high-zoot cars is that it always looks like each car gets everyone's full attention, every step presided over by workers who want to make sure they've done everything they could. Its most telling examples were the lab-coated workmen assembling the Carrera GT or SLR McLaren and the one-engine-one-worker method of AMG, but the gents looking after the Audi R8 Spyder keep up the tradition.

This peek around the production plant making Iron Man's car is a little light on drama, but there are plenty of other nuts-and-bolt's reasons for the enthusiast to spare three minutes to watch it. Follow the jump for the clip, and don't forget to put a few pennies away today for a deposit on one of your own. Hat tip to Steals

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: A look inside the Audi R8 Spyder production plant

Video: A look inside the Audi R8 Spyder production plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Confusing, but awesome Audi R8 Spyder commercial

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Audi

Audi R8 Spyder commercial - Click above to watch video after the jump

This Audi commercial for the R8 Spyder has a tagline that sounds more like two spies verifying each others' identities - "Mirror. Signal. Outmaneuver." - and it has a supporting cast stranger than a man in a nuclear-powered suit. Not that it needs to be comprehensible since it's got that topless white beast in it, and we'll be fine with that, thank you.

Follow the jump for a little Fellini-esque trip through Audi's mind.

[Source: Audi via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Confusing, but awesome Audi R8 Spyder commercial

Video: Confusing, but awesome Audi R8 Spyder commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Audi R8 Spyder gets lead role in Iron Man 2

Zach Bowman — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 17:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Videos, Audi, Celebrities, Luxury

Audi R8 Spyder in Iron Man 2 - Click above to watch video after the jump

We're officially counting down the days until Iron Man 2 hits theaters on May 7. The sequel to one of our favorite superhero flicks is set to boast a serious cast, including performances by Don Cheadle and Micky Rourke. Speaking of those two, the actors will be bringing two of the best characters from the Iron Man universe to life - War Machine and Whiplash. Oh yes. It will be good.

Of course, one of the best parts of watching Robert Downey Jr. play the part of spoiled playboy Tony Stark is drooling over the guy's bachelor pad/garage. We would give unmentionable portions of our anatomy to have our very own holographic drafting table and pint-sized manufacturing facility stashed downstairs. You can go ahead and throw in the flathead '32 roadster while you're at it.

Audi has once again teamed up with Marvel for Iron Man 2. A new ad from the company shows off the R8 Spyder as one of Stark's main rides, which makes sense considering the car was spotted on the set not too long ago. As if we needed another reason to be jealous. Hit the jump to see the spot for yourself.

Gallery: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder

[Source: Audi via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Audi R8 Spyder gets lead role in Iron Man 2

Video: Audi R8 Spyder gets lead role in Iron Man 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder

Drew Phillips — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Audi

Abt Sportline R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Whenever Audi introduces a new model, chances are that the folks at Abt Sportsline are going to get their hands on one. The German company has been tuning Volkswagens and Audis since the 1970s and has enjoyed success racing the Audi A4 in DTM and more recently the new R8 LMS. Needless to say, Abt knows how to properly modify cars bearing the four rings.

Abt's latest project is the droptop version of the Audi R8. Visually the car gets a new front grille, front fascia with carbon fiber spoiler, side sills, rear fascia, rear spoiler and lightweight five-spoke wheels. Even more importantly, the 5.2-liter V10 has been massaged to provide 600 horsepower, good for 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph. Finally, Abt provides a sport suspension system for improved handling. Follow the jump for full details and browse through the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Abt Sportsline R8 Spyder

[Source: ABT Sportline]

Continue reading Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder

Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: DTM champion Mattias Ekström plays renegade valet in an Audi R8 Spyder

Noah Joseph — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Videos, Audi

Click above to view the video after the jump

Nobody knows Audis like Mattias Ekström. The Swedish driver has been campaigning four-ringed racing machines in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters series (DTM, Germany's touring car championship) for the past nine years, and has taken the title twice. Who better, then, to put the latest performance Audi through its paces?

Having come up through the touring car ladder, Ekström may know tin-tops, but open cockpits are a novelty for him. The Audi R8 Spyder, with its 5.2-liter V10 engine running at full bore, sounds - and looks - like a good place to start. Follow the jump to see Ekström and the R8 do the sideways thing through an underground parking lot, complete with dub-tastic dialogue. Thanks for the tip, Braun!

Gallery: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder

Continue reading Video: DTM champion Mattias Ekström plays renegade valet in an Audi R8 Spyder

Video: DTM champion Mattias Ekström plays renegade valet in an Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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V8-powered Audi R8 Spyder in the pipeline?

Chris Shunk — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi, Rumormill

2011 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2L V10 - click above for high-res image gallery

The Audi R8 Spyder was introduced at Frankfurt with a stonking V10 powertrain nestled snugly in its boot, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the righteous 525-horsepower mill will be the R8 droptop's only source of power. Our West Coast friends at Inside LIne insist that the more reasonable 4.2-liter V8 that powers the "base" R8 is going to be offered as well... eventually.

The availability of a V8-powered Spyder could drop the price of entry by $30,000 or more, and it could prove to be an attractive option to potential customers who are more interested in the R8 Spyder as a fashion statement than as a near-supercar with outstanding performance. IL estimates that a V8-powered, topless R8 could arrive in showrooms sometime next year.

Who knows, perhaps Audi will find it in its collective heart to utilize the updated, better-breathing 450-hp 4.2-liter that is scheduled to arrive under the bonnet of the RS5 - not a bad consolation prize for a luxury car buyer looking to become part of the 500 Horsepower Club.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Inside Line]

V8-powered Audi R8 Spyder in the pipeline? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder. Y'all ready fo' this?

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Videos, Audi, Luxury

2011 Audi R8 Spyder promo film - Click above to watch video

In case you haven't already, Audi wants you to give this angry little mongrel, the 2011 R8 Spyder, a chance. To encourage you to lean in its favor, Audi has put together 91 seconds of rather dramatic footage (and screamin' 5.2-liter V10 audio) to show you what it can do for you, if only you would allow it the opportunity. Not to put too fine a point on it - we're sold.

Follow the jump to check out the vid and decide if it changes your mind - or only makes it up more.

Gallery: Detroit 2010: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Coupe and Spyder

[Source: Audi via Autoblog UK]

Continue reading Video: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder. Y'all ready fo' this?

Video: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder. Y'all ready fo' this? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red

Michael Harley — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi

2010 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't the first time we've seen the drop-top Audi R8 Spyder. Images were leaked in early September, and we were there in Frankfurt for its official debut. That said, its unveiling at the LA Auto Show was less than climactic... other than the fact the Spyder was sporting a flashy bright-red bodywork.

New hue aside, the new convertible variant is a looker from its carbon-fiber mirrors to polished aluminum wheels. The blades are gone and it has gained 476 pounds in the transformation, but the standard Lambo-derived 525-hp V10 will still rip it to 60 mph in about four seconds flat. For the details (again), we've posted the press release after the jump.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red

LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #145 with the Two Marks from Ford

Dan Roth — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:44:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Podcasts, Audi, Bugatti, Ford, Lamborghini, Renault, Peugeot, Citroën

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #145 of the Autoblog Podcast is a mostly-Frankfurt Motor Show edition. Chris, Sam and Dan are joined by Mark Kaufman, Ford's C-segment marketing manager, and Blue-Oval product communications manager Mark Schirmer. The two Marks join us to talk about what Ford's got up its sleeve for Frankfurt and beyond. The C1 Focus is finally making the transatlantic journey, and we're getting the flexible and efficient Grand C-Max, as well. Talk turns all EcoBoosty and future-plannish before the crew moves on to the sights at Frankfurt.

The Volkswagen L1 concept sets us off on the environmentally conscious aspects of the show, which we quickly abandoned in favor of such awesomeness as the Audi R8 Spyder, roofless Lamborghini Reventon, and the slick Audi S5 Sportback. Taking a left turn down Odd Street, we test our intestinal fortitude with the Bugatti Galibier, Peugeot BB1 and Citroen's Revolte. Questions wrap it up, and again, it clocks in with extra value past the hour and a half mark.

Thanks for the great reviews in iTunes and your efforts with the survey. We'll be back next week, but until then, hit up our friends at Engadget or Joystiq for other 'casts you might be interested in. Drop us a note at Podcast at Autoblog dot com in the meantime.

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #145 with the Two Marks from Ford

Autoblog Podcast #145 with the Two Marks from Ford originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Europe, Audi

2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 - click above image for hi-res gallery

While everybody and their brother likes the R8, there is a small, but vocal minority that's always thought coupe looked a little funny. Not "fugly" mind you, just a tad... off. We've heard the term "porpoise skull" bandied about. Well, that group of naysayers can now put a sock in it, as the R8 Spyder is simply gorgeous. Gone are the carbon fiber side blades, in are sensible but somehow better looking slab sides. Regardless, it's simply hot.

This particular example comes with Audi's 525 hp Lambo-sourced 5.2-liter V10 so we're putting it on our "DO WANT!" list. one of the few knocks on the hardtop R8 is that you just can't quite hear enough of the engine. We imagine hacking the roof off solves that particular problem. Also, the folding soft top operation is slick, and looks like it takes less than the 19 seconds Audi's advertising. Downside? The Spyder weighs 476 pounds more than the Coupe. But seriously, when a car looks this good, would you care? If you do, please remember that the R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 hits 60 mph in four seconds. Glad you don't care either. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Audi R8 Spyder

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab

Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi

Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder - Click above for high-res gallery

Audi has officially dropped the lid on the new R8 Spyder and and this time around it's opening fire with the big gun V10 engine. As we've already seen in previously leaked photos, the Spyder dispenses with the regular R8's trademark side blades, instead featuring integrated air intakes on the flanks. Those new body sides and the cover for the soft top are now also made of carbon fiber, although the structure underneath remains Audi's aluminum space frame.

In spite of going with a soft top that only weighs 66 pounds, the Spyder gains a significant 476 pounds over the coupe, which may explain why Audi opted for the more powerful engine right off the bat. The Spyder also gets a reinforced bulkhead, sills and center tunnel to maintain most of its structural integrity. The power top opens and closes in only 19 seconds and can be operated at speeds up to 31 mph. Acceleration to 62 mph takes just 4.1 seconds and the terminal velocity is 194.5 mph. No U.S. launch date has been given, but we wouldn't expect to see it until at least next spring. Follow the jump for Audi's full press release.

Gallery: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder

Continue reading Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom

Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi, Luxury

Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

With all the leaks leading up to the Frankfurt Motor Show, we knew this one would pop sooner rather than later. And here it is: the Audi R8 Spyder. No more spy shots or speculation. The drop-top bomber from Ingolstadt has arrived... and it's achingly gorgeous in this chocolate hue.

Without any official information to go off of, we can't comment on weights and measures, but we do know Audi will only be offering the Spyder with the Lambo-derived 5.2-liter V10, putting out 525 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. On the styling side, there's not much to report. Along with the removal of the roof, the sideblades have been dispatched in favor of a duo of scoops ahead of the rear wheels, while the windshield gets framed in brushed aluminum and a set of vented bulges trail off from the seats. Unfortunately, we don't have any shots of the R8 with the top up, but when we get an eyeful in Frankfurt, we'll get our first glimpse of the retractable soft-top and the R8's new profile. Until then, check the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Carscoop]

Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

Chris Shunk — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Videos, Supercars, Audi

2011 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above to watch a video after the jump

We're definitely looking forward to our first official glimpse at the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder, but unfortunately, we don't know exactly when that will happen. While it was widely expected to bow at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, we've recently heard that it could show its V10-only face as late as Detroit in January.

Fear not, though, because we've got some high-quality footage of the R8 Spyder as it takes its 525 horsepower whoopin' stick to the Nürburgring. Hit the jump to view the future crown jewel of the Audi lineup as it comes hard after some of the most famous curves in the history of race tracks. If seeing the uncovered R8 Spyder on the track isn't exhilarating enough for you, make sure to turn up the volume. The sinister growl emanating from the rear of Audi's supercar in waiting is enough to send chills down the spine. We like.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

Source: Auto Wereld via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Supercars, Audi

Audi is testing its forthcoming R8 Spyder, and the car is wearing what appears to be a completely stowable roof, not the targa-style top that has been suggested as a possibility. Yet disappearing along with the roof could also be your view of the engine. The droptop in the spy photos and in Audi's official sketch features a solid engine cover and two curious structures adorned with gills that run up to the rear window. They could line up with an interior element when the roof is down, but it would have to be mighty cool to be worth missing out on that engine. Audi's 552 horsepower competitor for cars like the Vantage V12 and Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio will bow at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Fastest Car]

Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Hybrid, Performance, Green, Supercars, Audi, Rumormill

Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Reports out of France and Germany indicate that in addition to the all-new A8 and A5 Sportback, Audi plans to reveal two versions of the R8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Both Auto Motor und Sport and L'Automobile report that Audi will finally reveal the R8 Spyder at the IAA expo, with the French pub saying the drop-top supercar will be available with either the standard 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 or the newly released 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10, allowing Audi to compete directly with the 911 4S, Turbo and convertible models.

However, the big news is the rumored reveal of an electric version of the R8. Details are scarce, so it's unclear if the R8 concept will be a pure EV, a diesel/gasoline-electric hybrid, a limited production model or, more likely, just an indication that Audi is looking at future powertrains. Regardless, we'll be on the floor in Frankfurt to bring you both the reveals if/when they happen.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Sources: AMuS, L'Automobile]

Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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