AUDIR8 V10 performance RWD Spyder 2021 - 2024

　　Audi refreshed the second generation of the R8 V10 in 2018, but it was not done making surprising moves, and in the summer of 2021, it released the Performance RWD versions of it in both coupe and open-top shapes.

　　Along with the coupe version of the R8 V10 Performance, Audi also introduced an open-top version of it, traditionally named Spyder. This was created for those who wanted to feel more air around them when they were driving fast on a race track or on a twisty road. As expected, the rag-top version of this performance-oriented supercar was heavier than its coupe sibling. But still, thanks to the advanced engineering and the massive use of CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers) panels, it weighed just 105 kg (231 lbs.) more than the coupe, but it was lighter than the regular, all-wheel drive version R8 V10 Spyder by 55 kg (121 lbs.). Part of the weight reduction was the lack of a front differential and driveshafts, which also affected weight distribution.

　　From its front, the R8 V10 Performance Spyder shared most of its elements with the coupe. It featured a wide grille with a honeycomb pattern mesh on it that was flanked on its upper sides by the LED headlights. On the lower part of the bumper, Audi placed a set of side air intakes that cooled the front brakes and two vertical slits that created air curtains to lower the drag coefficient. Another specific detail of the R8 Performance RWD was the three slits at the lower part of the hood, a reminiscent detail carried over from the Ur-Quattro from the early '80s.

　　From its profile, the car had a similar shape to the regular V10 Spyder. Still, a few particular details differentiated it from its sibling. Audi adorned the front fenders with black V10 badges instead of chromed ones, like on the all-wheel drive model. Then, the car ran on 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch in the back. Finally, out back, the car sported a broad trim featuring a hexagonal mesh pattern that stretched from side to side, resembling the Ur-Quattro rally car. In addition, a set of rounded exhausts peaked under the bumper, flanking the massive diffuser.

　　As expected, the cabin was good for two, offering customers a pair of sports seats with high bolstered areas to keep them in place during high-speed cornering. Audi used Nappa leather for the upholstery since that material could withstand rain better. Fronting the driver was a flat-bottom steering wheel that housed four round switches next to the lower spoke. Audi placed there the start/stop button, the drive-mode selector, the controller for the Virtual Cockpit display, and the one that activated the performance mode. The driver could cover or uncover the three-layer canvas top in about 20 seconds at a speed of up to 50 kph (31 mph).

　　But the most important part of the vehicle was its drivetrain. The 5.2-liter V10 engine produced 570 PS (562 hp) and sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) gearbox. In addition, the car's adaptive suspension and electromechanical steering helped drivers get faster laps around a race track and also obtained controlled drifts. Last but not least, it was fitted as standard with ceramic disc brakes.

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