Born on the track.

The Audi R8 name is synonymous with the very pinnacle of high-performance motoring and while the RWD and performance quattro share the R8 moniker, they each exhibit their own unique character. Both striking in design and finish, they differ most in their power delivery and effect that has on the driving experience.

With its mid-mounted V10 engine developing 397kW and power down to the rear wheels, the R8 Coupé V10 RWD is one for the purists. Its stablemate, the R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro boasts 449kW – the addition of the brand’s legendary all-wheel drive changing the dynamic and providing a surefooted feel even at the extremes of performance.

The epitome of performance

The performance figures are impressive, but they tell just part of the story. Yes, the R8 Coupé V10 RWD dispatches the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in just 3.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 324 km/h, but mere numbers can’t convey the pure shot of adrenalin you feel with each serious application of throttle. Nor can numbers describe the sound of the naturally aspirated, 5.2-litre V10 engine under load or impart the feeling of 397kW and 540Nm of torque unleashed.

The fixed wing on the rear of the R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro gives some indication of the car’s potential, but it is the added grip of quattro and the higher engine output, that sets it apart. This stunning combination carves a full 0.5 seconds off the 0 to 100km/h sprint time to see it done and dusted in just 3.2 seconds on the way to a top speed of 330km/h. This maintains the model’s title as the fastest and most powerful Audi model ever produced – a feature even more impressive when experienced first-hand.

The suspension: Precision in all its facets

Straight-line speed is just one part of the equation that results in the outstanding performance equation of the Audi R8 models.

The Audi R8 Coupé V10 RWD utilises the perfect weight distribution of the mid-mounted engine and low centre of gravity with its pure rear-wheel drive, passive differential lock and specially tuned RWD sport suspension to deliver razor-sharp handling with that distinctive rear bias.

With the R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro, the Audi magnetic ride with CFRP stabiliser adapts the shock absorbers for each wheel to your driving style and to the road surface in just milliseconds, providing unparalleled handling and rod holding.

Racing line design

The striking Audi R8 design has evolved over time while remaining true to its award-winning origins. The specific personality of each of the new Audi R8 models is evident in this new design language, although subtlety and sophistication remain at the very heart of the R8.

The Audi Singleframe grille sits lower and has grown wider to dominate the front end of each model, flanked by massive air intakes that add to the width and aggressive presence. The air intake treatment between the grille and the bonnet comes directly from the brand’s proud motorsport past and the large oval RS exhausts and rear splitters are pure R8 performance. The matrix LED headlights with laser light further accentuate the ‘face’ off each model while providing the only lighting available up to the task presented by the performance on hand. Those with a sharp eye will notice the R8 Coupé V10 RWD sports an upper side blade in gloss mythos black, metallic and a lower blade in the body colour. The R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro features the solid side blade treatment and adds a rear-deck spoiler in carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP).

The additional exterior packages in matt titanium look and the Ascari blue, metallic paint finish are exclusive to the R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro, while newly designed 20-inch milled wheels are available in 5-V-dynamic design with three different surface options for even greater personalisation.

Craftsmanship meets technology. The interior.

The cockpit of each Audi R8 is both supremely functional and beautifully appointed. Meticulous attention to detail is evident in every conceivable area of the interior, but with an undeniable emphasis on performance.

As befits a high-performance car of this calibre, the design brings a driver focus to all controls and vehicle systems, but comfort and appointment are not sacrificed. Held firm in its sports seats in fine Nappa leather or full-leather package, occupants in the R8 Coupé V10 RWD enjoy the rarified environment where cutting-edge performance meets absolute craftsmanship.

Likewise the Audi R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro provides its occupants with an exclusive ride, with deep bucket seats for increased lateral support, its interior featuring a fine Nappa leather combination with contrasting stitching in Mercato blue and trim elements in gloss carbon.

Excellence in every detail is standard across the board.