Audi R8 – The German Spyder

Another stunning Audi is on the way with the long anticipated Audi R8 spyder, and what a fantastic looking work of art it is.

We are in luck as some sneaky pictures have made their way onto the internet ahead of the supercars’ official unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show this week, so we were able to get a little preview.

Despite what the initial reports stated, the R8 Spider will not have a removable targa-style panel, but a folding roof that will tuck away neatly behind the passenger compartment.  Comparing the R8 Spyder to the standard R8, the cosmetic changes are really noticeable; the windshield is framed with brushed aluminium and a set of vented bulges trail off from the seats.

The rear bodywork is also new, with a two-piece flat rear deck replacing the sweeping pillars of the coupe, which allows for a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder-style folding roof.  Also redesigned is the engine cover at the back with twin speedster humps that incorporate newly styled air-vents as well as the elimination of the so-called ‘sideblades’.

The mechanical details are still fairly limited, but it has been reported that the Spyder will be launched initially with the Lamborghini derived and range-topping 5.2-litre V10 engine, putting out 525 horsepower and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque.

We will get our first eyeful of the retractable soft-top and R8′s new profile at Frankfurt, it’s not long to wait now, be patient!

As the R8 Spyder is not yet in production, lease an Audi R8 Coupe from £1987.97 per month.