Here comes the Audi R8 LMS, the most radical version of the German supercar

Since 2015 the motorsport division of Audi has been building the Audi R8 LMS, but it has taken advantage of the Paris Motor Show to show us the latest version of this sports car, which has its sights set on GT3 competition. The most visible improvements are aimed at offering greater aerodynamic downforce, which will allow better behaviour on the track, and at keeping the brakes better cooled.

It is worth looking at it closely, because many of those small changes you can see on the model intended for the track will also be present in the road version of the Audi R8, which will also be unveiled soon. The GT3 version cannot undergo many more modifications, since the FIA rules are strict and set very defined standards. So the engine could not be modified and still has the same 5.2-litre V10 engine with natural aspiration, capable of producing a power output of 585 CV and a maximum torque of 550 Nm.

That said, when it comes to the six-speed sequential gearbox and the clutch that manages it, the response of the mechanical components has been considerably improved. Audi claims that these elements, which are subjected to great pressure during competition, will now be more durable and will offer better performance for longer.

Audi has scrupulously followed all the FIA rules, adopting the safety elements it needs to be homologated for the GT3 circuit. Although elements that were not present in other versions of the model have been added, it has been made somewhat lighter than those, offering a total weight 25 kg lower than the previous model.

Anyone wishing to enjoy this spectacular car will have to pay 398,000 euros, taxes not included. It will be ready to hit tracks around the world at the beginning of 2019, and for those who own the current model, Audi offers an upgrade kit worth 28,000 euros.