Ready to Race: Audi

THE SPECS
Base Price Not available at press time
Engine 5.2L V10
Horsepower 612 hp
Torque 428 lb-ft
Configuration Mid-engine / All-wheel drive
Transmission 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
0-60 mph 3.1 seconds
Top Speed 206 mph

First introduced to the world in 2007, the Audi R8 has, little by little, become a better and better performance-car proposition. The new 2020 model was developed in parallel with the R8 LMS GT3 and GT4 race versions and similarities among the three abound. Audi engineers estimate that fully half the parts list carries over from the race car to the road-going version. At launch, two versions of the street-legal R8 will be available, both powered by a 5.2L V10, both in coupe or convertible form. Compared to previous iterations, this new R8 is faster (particularly the higher-output Performance Quattro) and more dynamic, courtesy of a revised suspension system and more responsive steering. Down the road, other versions will follow, including a rear-wheel drive R8 that’s even closer to the LMS models.