Audi R8 GT

Audi unveiled the R8 supercar 5 years ago with great applause, even from the non-automotive world.  The car is absolutely beautiful with the iconic LEDs around the headlights which have become a staple on all modern Audi.  I will never forget the great Super Bowl ads Audi ran which I still believe are driving Audi’s recent popularity.

Since its premier, Audi has been constantly tweaking the R8 first by adding an optional 5.2 liter Lamborghini V10 to replace the Audi 4.2 liter V8.  The next iteration was the R8 Spyder, a car I hate based on principle.  Removing the structural components of the roof on a high horsepower car drastically reduces the torsional stiffness which ruins the handling.  I’ll stop there because I could talk all day about the flaws in paying more for a lesser car, but regardless of the engineering, in order to fit the convertible top, they can to cover up the engine.  One of the great things about mid-engine supercars is that most have a glass panel to display the engine as seen in the R8, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis.  Why cover it up with a cloth top?

Back on topic, the most recent update has produced the lightest, fastest, and therefore the best Audi R8 to date.  The R8 GT has the 5.2 liter engine bumped from the standard 525 bhp to a radical 560 bhp.  Audi also converted several body panels to carbon fiber and even used thinner glass to save a total of 220 pounds.  They also updated the front fascia and added a fixed rear wing to keep the rear end under control at speed.

The sad part is that I will probably never own one because only 333 will be made and they may never be sold in America.  Regardless, it is a gorgeous, all-wheel drive supercar that will be a permanent member of my dream garage.

*Thanks to netcarshow.com for the pictures.