Audi Releases Race-Ready, GT3-Spec R8 Racer

Alongside the Le Mans-winning R10 TDI at the Essen Motor Show, Audi unveiled a turn-key race variant of the sublime R8. This is the first program of its kind from Audi and a natural evolution of its motorsports division. Bearing the project name “R16,” this R8 conforms to GT3 regulations allowing entry in a wide range of racing events. A V-10 sits foward of the rear axle and routes 500-plus horsepower to the rear wheels through a new six-speed sequential gearbox. While the exterior receives deep aerodynamic modifications, Audi claims that a majority of off-the-production-line-parts were used for the suspension. You can expect a positively Spartan interior. At €262,000 (or $332,923) the price of entry for the R8 sits a bit lower than, say, a €349,800 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR. But will the R8 provide enough competition? We’ll see as teams adopt the new race car for the 2009 season. Be sure to check out a YouTube video provided by Audi of the R8 GT3 racer in action.