R8 GT says goodbye to the V10 engine
Compared to the 570 PS R8 V10 Performance RWD, which forms the basis of the second version of the R8 GT, Audi Sport GmbH is increasing the performance of this special model to bring it up to the same level as the quattro version. This means that power from the 5.2-litre V10 engine reaches 620 PS and 565 Nm of torque, available from 6,400 to 7,000 rpm (maximum: 8,700 rpm). As a result, the new R8 GT accelerates to 100 km/h from standstill in 3.4 seconds, reaches 200 km/h from standstill in 10.1 seconds and has a top speed of 320 km/h.
Another major upgrade is the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with even faster gear change times. Thanks to the different final drive ratio, the new gearbox allows even more impressive acceleration throughout the rev range and at every speed. In addition, there is a design element exclusive to the R8 GT, - the intake manifold painted in black.
New Driving mode "Torque Rear Drive"
For the first time, Audi Sport GmbH, which builds the new R8 GT primarily by hand in Böllinger Höfe, is offering the new Torque Rear function. The sliding of the rear axle wheels is controlled through the traction control system (ASR), which is part of the ESC. Seven characteristic system operating curves are stored in the ASR, offering different levels of intervention and traction maintenance. Level 1 allows little wheel slip, while level 7 allows considerably greater rear wheel slip margins. The desired level of torque reaching the rear axle can be adjusted through a rotary switch on the steering wheel. This function allows the driver to adjust the car's behaviour based on his or her own abilities and road conditions. Depending on how the whole skidding process unfolds, and taking into account information from sensors on wheel speed, steering angle, accelerator pedal position and the selected gear ratio in the transmission, the engine control unit determines the engine power reaching the rear axle and the amount of oversteer the driver wants.
Less is more
Compared to the R8 Coupé V10 Performance RWD, Audi has made several changes that have led to a weight reduction of around 20kg, bringing the total to 1,580kg (excluding the driver). Exclusive 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels, which can be combined with high-performance Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires (which are designed for both road and track), play a key role in the weight reduction. The lightweight forged wheels are also based on Audi racing models. The extremely powerful ceramic braking system, which is standard equipment on the R8 GT, saves additional weight. At the same time, there are bucket seats specifically for the R8 and the sports performance suspension with its CFRP anti-roll bar. The front anti-roll bar is made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic. Combined with two red anodised aluminium links (for corrosion protection), weight is reduced and cornering grip is improved. An optional coilover suspension is also available, for even sportier driving characteristics in the R8 GT. This suspension allows independent adjustment of compression and rebound levels as well as height adjustment. To do this, R8 GT customers receive an instruction book together with the car, as well as the necessary tools to make all the adjustments.
A look that highlights its unique status
To differentiate the new Audi R8 V10 GT RWD from other models, it is equipped with some exclusive elements. The first feature is the inscription of the name "R8 GT" in black on the rear. Also, all other badges are also painted in black. Combined with the Carbon Aerokit, which is made of glossy plastic and developed in an aerodynamic tunnel, we have a package that offers higher stability and higher cornering speeds. Overall, the Carbon Aerokit consists of the following components: a front splitter, small front fenders, aerodynamic skirts on the side of the body, a diffuser and a large air dam fitted with suspension. This spoiler ensures the best aerodynamic behaviour of the car and increases the vertical force exerted on the rear axle. Following the style of its predecessor, the new R8 GT is available in matte Suzuka Gray. Alternatively, Tangorot Metallic and Daytona Grey Metallic are available.
Inside, Audi Sport GmbH continues its homage to the first R8 GT from 2010. The interior is dominated by a combination of black and red. Among the most distinctive elements are the red belts which were only available on the R8 GT 12 years ago. The floor mats and bucket seats are also marked with the special model designation in black and red. Another exclusive feature is that the R8 GT features the model's production numbering, positioned in the middle of the dial and embedded in the carbon fibre trim.
