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