back

AUDI R8 SPYDER.....

It's always been a case of when, not if, Audi will produce a drop-top version of its hugely successful R8 supercar. That time is now, the R8 Spyder being shown in drop-top guise at Volkswagen's traditional pre-show event on the outskirts of Frankfurt. A real head-turner with its fully electric folding fabric roof, the R8 could hold its own even when parked alongside Bugatti's Sang Bleu special edition Veyron, though with a starting price of £111,995 in the UK it's a lot more attainable than its million-pound cousin.

The only engine option at launch is a 5.2-litre V10, which means 4.1-second 0-62mph capability, a top speed of 194mph and 525bhp. That drives through all four wheels via either a standard manual transmission or an R tronic automated manual. Carbon panels help keep the weight increase over the coupé to a minimum, the body itself only weighing an additional 6kg despite all its additional stiffening - the overall weight for the drop-top Spyder being 1,720kg. But forget all that and instead just look at it, and in the roadster market looks are king.

The rear glass window in the hood can be raised and lowered with the roof in position and Audi has incorporated microphones into the seatbelts for the integrated mobile phone.

Unusually, you can order it straight away. Drop into your Audi dealer today with a deposit and you can be sure to secure a car in time for next summer. Assuming you've got the necessary £111,995 for the manual car, or £117,155 for the R tronic.

back