Audi will now offer the R8 in a (better) rear-wheel-drive version to appeal to driving enthusiasts.
The Audi R8 Spyder and Coupe will now be available with rear-wheel-drive in the US.
After a trial of 320 rear-wheel-drive R8’s in 2018, Audi has announced the models will be standard in the range. US dealers should receive Spyder and Coupe RWD versions this fall.
Like the Quattro, the rear-wheel-drive R8 will come with a 5.2-liter V10 engine producing 532 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, or 602 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque in the performance version.
Although mechanically the same, R8 RWD lags behind in speed. The Spyder reaches 60mph in 3.7seconds, while the Coupe takes 3.6 seconds.
Meanwhile, the Quattro takes only 3.2 seconds to reach the same speed (3.3 seconds for the Spyder).
However, the RWD versions lack the driveshaft and differential that send power to the front wheels. As a result, the car is lighter and more agile in the corners. Better maneuverability is actually the main feature of the R8 RWD.
The R8 Coupe RWD weighs 3,594 lb., while the Quattro weighs 3720 lb. For the Spyder, the RWD comes at 3847 lb., while the Quattro 3957 lb.
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When it comes to price, the RWD Coupe costs $144,195, while the Spyder is $156,395. For comparison, the Quattro alternatives start at $198,195 and $210,395, respectively.
All R8s have LED headlights as well as taillights with dynamic turn signals.
The performance variant comes with side blades and a carbon rear spoiler. Moreover, lower trim levels come in a matte Titanium color, but the customer can choose a carbon-fiber finish.
Meanwhile, in the RWD models, the side blades and the rear exhaust tips are painted in Mythos black and chrome.
In an era when almost all companies rush towards electrification, the Audi R8 RWD comes in as a relief. It’s a no-nonsense sports car designed primarily for enjoyment, not speed.
If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one, make sure to appreciate it fully. We might miss these cars more than we give them credit for in the very near future.
