The new Audi R8 V10 RWD: for the purists

Audi presents the new Audi R8 V10 RWD, the rear-wheel-drive version of its most sporting model, which moves from being a limited edition to becoming one more version within the R8 range.

The update that the Audi R8 2019 has undergone now reaches the Audi R8 V10 RWD, the rear-wheel-drive variant which in the previous range was sold only as a limited edition of 999 units, under the name R8 RWS.

Now, the Audi R8 RWS becomes one more version in the range, alongside the R8 V10 quattro and the V10 performance quattro. And like the latter, the R8 RWD will also be offered in both body styles, Coupé and Spyder.

Powerful, light… and all at the back

Basically, the changes that come to the R8 RWD are the same as those it received in its update to the Audi R8 2019 range. It features a wider, flatter front grille. The classic openings between the grille and the bonnet that Audi adds on some models are also included, as a reminder of the legendary Audi Sport quattro.

Other aesthetic changes affect the air intakes and the rear outlet grille, which is now larger. The front splitter is new, the rear diffuser sits in a higher position, and the air filter cover for the engine can optionally be chosen in carbon fibre.

As distinctive elements, the side blades characteristic of the Audi R8 have their upper part finished in glossy black in this version, a colour that is repeated on the front blade, the sills and the diffuser. Optionally, customers who request it can fit the carbon-style personalisation packs on the Coupé, and the black style pack on the Spyder.

The RWD versions, with rear-wheel drive, dispense with the driveshaft, the multi-plate clutch and the front differential, which saves 65 kg in the case of the Coupé, and 55 kg in the Spyder, compared with the quattro versions. With a 40:60 weight distribution, the R8 V10 Coupé RWD reaches a final kerb weight without driver of 1,595 kg, while the Spyder weighs 100 kg more.

Naturally aspirated V10 engine, 540 CV

The engine of the R8 RWD remains the naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 FSI. It delivers a maximum power of 540 CV, with a maximum torque of 540 Nm, reached at 6,400 rpm.

Coupled to an S tronic dual-clutch 7-speed gearbox, the power is transmitted to the rear axle, which features a mechanical limited-slip differential. The tyres are 245/35-19 at the front and 295/35 at the rear. Optionally, 20-inch wheels can be fitted with special tyres.

The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration is 3.7 seconds for the Coupé, while the Spyder needs a tenth of a second more. The top speed is 320 and 318 km/h, respectively.

Like the rest of the range, the Audi R8 V10 RWD is built almost by hand on the Böllinger Höfe assembly line that Audi Sport operates in Neckarsulm. Sales are planned to begin in early 2020, with a starting price on the Spanish market from 167,790 euros for the Coupé, and 178,590 euros for the Spyder.