Audi fans are cognizant of several pearls of wisdom from the German automaker, one of which is that every time the company designates a model into its R8 line, that's a vehicle zooming into supercar territory. And so it came to pass that on Thursday, Audi introduced new additions to that line: the 2021 Audi R8 RWD Spyder and the 2021 Audi R8 RWD Coupe.
Both With V10 Engines
What makes getting into the R8 class such a big deal is its ties with the R8 GT3 LMS racer, which for the past decade has seen its share of championship wins on several GT racing series around the globe. More than half the parts from this legendary racer have been replicated for use in the Audi R8 line.
The heart of the 2021 Coupe and Spyder is the 5.2-liter V10 engine with 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The performance aspect between the two cars is marginal at best with the Coupe reaching 0-60 in 3.2 seconds—a tenth of a second faster than the Spyder. Ditto for the Coupe's top speed of 205 mph, a mile faster than the Spyder.
Quick Shifting and Easy Handling
It also helps to have a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission which can slide from gear to gear in roughly a tenth of a second. Both also come with an electromechanical power steering system for ease in handling, especially at high speeds.
The interior takes power seating to a whole new extreme with 18 ways to adjust them for comfort. Covered in Nappa leather, the seats also come with pneumatic side and leg bolsters. There's also a tech-heavy dash with touch screen infotainment center and a 550-watt sound system with 13 surround sound speakers.
Power, Power Everywhere
It's no secret that Audi's been pushing its RS line on this side of the Atlantic as well as trying to reap dividends on its electric E-tron models, but understandably the GT sportscar connection is far too irresistible to refuse.
In both the R8 Coupe or Spyder, you've got a powerful engine, power steering, power brakes, power seats. All that's left are the power payments. The 2021 Audi R8 RWD Spyder and the 2021 Audi R8 RWD Coupe, which will be available before the end of 2020, will set you back $154,900 and $142,700 respectively.
Source: Audi
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