Production R8 Revealed...

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CivPilot

Original Poster:

6,235 posts

245 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
Ding Dong!!!



First time I think the production version looks better than the concept. Love the headlights.
Press release.....
The drive train

At 7,800 rpm the 4.2-litre engine delivers 309 kW (420 bhp) of power output. Peak torque is 430 Newton-metres from 4.500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation. The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 301 km/h. The engine is a high-revving unit. The maximum engine speed is 8,250 rpm. The advantages of this principle are superior power output at high engine speeds and a smooth, eager responsiveness all across the revs range. Added to this are its agility, liveliness and engine sound, which is similar to that of a race car. The Audi R8's dry sump lubrication – another technology originating directly from motor racing – provides the ideal basis for maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration. It allows the V8 to be installed lower, thereby lowering the centre of gravity and further enhancing driving dynamics.

Two transmissions are available: a manual 6-speed gearbox or optionally the Audi R tronic sequential-shift gearbox, with a joystick gear-shift on the centre console and, most especially, the paddles mounted on the steering wheel. 'Shift by wire' technology provides for very fast gear-shifting and an outstanding power-to-weight ratio, allied to compact gearbox dimensions. The Sport mode, with its fast shifting, guarantees the absolute maximum in terms of driving fun. An automatic mode can also be selected. The car is fitted with permanent four-wheel drive, which distributes the power variably to the front and rear axles by way of a viscous clutch. On the Audi R8 the legendary quattro system is adapted to the axle load distribution typical of mid-engined cars.

The chassis

The chassis features forged aluminium double wishbones at the front and rear. At the front they are triangulated, while at the rear the top one is triangulated and the bottom one is a triangulated wishbone with a track rod. This provides for optimum wheel control, and is a geometry which has proved itself to be the ideal solution in delivering agility, maximum steering precision and precisely defined self-steering characteristics. Direct, hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering provides optimum feedback to assist the driver.
The spring and damper set-up is stiff in order to deliver maximum driving dynamics, while still providing a quite astonishing level of ride comfort. This is particularly true when the 'Audi magnetic ride' adaptive damper system is chosen as an alternative to the standard gas-filled shock absorbers. The reason for this is that these shock absorbers employ an innovative technology. Instead of the conventional damper fluid, a magnetorheological fluid is used – in other words, a fluid whose viscosity can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. This effect enables the damping characteristic to be influenced electronically at will and instantaneously, by applying a voltage to the electromagnets.
Audi magnetic ride uses this property to deliver the correct damping forces in every driving situation, thus optimising ride comfort and driving dynamics. A computer equipped with sensor technology determines the prevailing driving situation in a matter of milliseconds. Drivers can choose from two driving programs depending on whether they want to drive in a highly sporty style – with the magnetorheological fluid adjusted to a low viscosity – or with the emphasis more on ride comfort.

The Audi R8 is fitted with 6-arm 18-inch wheels as standard, and can optionally be ordered with 19-inch wheels. The 235/40 size tyres at the front and up to 285/35 at the rear provide the necessary road-holding. This tyre configuration also ensures that this mid-engined sports car is always able to translate the dynamism of its drive train and chassis into optimum grip and maximum lateral dynamics. The mid-engined sports car's long wheelbase and extremely low centre of gravity ensure that it always retains maximum stability, resulting in superb agility, finely attuned responsiveness to any driver input, and high levels of safety.

Equipment and trim

Even the standard equipment of the Audi R8 meets the high demands of customers in this segment. Xenon plus lights, LED rear lights and daytime running lights, 18-inch aluminium wheels, an audio system with 7-inch monitor, an anti-theft alarm and Leather/Alcantara interior trim are just some of the items on the extensive list of standard features. The range of optional extras leaves virtually nothing to be desired. A Bang & Olufsen sound system, featuring an output of 465 watts and 12 specially designed speakers, delivers surround sound of the highest standard. A microphone-based vehicle noise compensation system adjusts audio levels to changing road conditions and speeds.
The acoustic parking system and a rear-view camera help the driver to manoeuvre into even the tightest of spaces. The radio/navigation system plus, featuring a large-format colour monitor and MMI keypad, combines extensive functionality with extreme user-friendliness. A range of coordinated and ideally combinable design and leather trim packages from Audi and from quattro GmbH can turn any R8 into the customer’s personal dream car.

The wheels range offers design alternatives in sizes of 18 and 19 inches, fitted with 235/35 size tyres at the front and up to 295/30 at the rear. A total of eight exterior colours are available, from Ibis White to Phantom Black, pearl effect.

The craftsmanship

The Audi R8 is being built on a small-lot production line in a specially constructed new block at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm. The entire production process – from the bodyshell construction to final assembly – is organised in the same way as a craft workshop. Small teams of specialists accompany every step of production, subjecting every part and component to intense scrutiny. This ensures that every one of the maximum of 15 cars per day built will more than match the customary high quality standards of the Audi product range.


Nice Wallpaper this one.....

daz9100

161 posts

238 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
Yummy

Here's the English R8 Microsite

http://microsites.audi.com/audir8/htm

Edited by daz9100 on Thursday 28th September 09:52

PetrolTed

34,443 posts

308 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
That's a stunning website.

Still worry that the R8 looks a bit ordinary though. Bit like a grown up TT.

CivPilot

Original Poster:

6,235 posts

245 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
Agreed, that Micro site deserves a better look at lunch time... all of lunchtime

I actually think the car turned out far better than I thought it would. I found the spy shots dull and un-interesting and the concept a little too contrived, it was trying too hard. Seeing it with proper lights and wheels as oposed to obvious concept versions has given the car a far "harder" look.

Seeing the pictures of the finished car.... stunning rival to a 911 for me, money allowing I wouldnt hesitate and I'm not even a usual Audi fan. (ducks as he checks the forum he's posting in).

daz9100

161 posts

238 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
Full UK spec as supplied by Audi(UK)

Vehicle introduction
We are delighted to provide information about the Audi R8 which was unveiled at the Paris
Motorshow on 27th September.
The 2-seater Audi R8 represents a new milestone in the history of Audi and is the pinnacle of
Vorsprung durch Technik. Feedback has been extremely positive from those who had the
opportunity to enjoy a short preview of the car at the recent TT training, with the progressive
design clearly supporting the Audi values.
The Audi R8 launches with a mid mounted V8 4.2 FSI (420PS) engine, quattro permanent fourwheel
drive, ESP 8 and lightweight construction utilising Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology. The
Audi R8 is available with manual transmission or ‘R tronic’, an automated manual gearbox with shift
by wire technology and a joystick gear lever for short, sporting shifts.
The Audi R8 was unveiled to the International Press yesterday at the Paris motorshow and the
following weeks will see significant press and customer interest in the vehicle.

Technical specification
Audi R8 4.2 FSI 420PS
Emissions standard: EU4
CO2: 326 g/km
Acceleration (0-62mph): 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 187mph
Peak torque: 430 Nm from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm
Fuel consumption (mpg): 13.6 (Urban); 29.7 (Extra Urban); 20.8 (Combined)
Unladen weight: 1560kg (1565kg R tronic)
Power to weight ratio: 269PS per tonne
Dimensions: 1.9 metres wide, 4.43 metres long and 1.25 metres high
Front luggage capacity: 100 litres

Pricing
R8 Pricing
We anticipate that the retail price will be in the region of £76,000. Final price confirmation will be
provided by the end of October 2006.

Key features
Mid-mounted engine concept
Product concept / function
• Front (44%) and rear (56%) axle load distribution creates optimised conditions for
outstanding traction and driving dynamics
• Fuel tank position near to the vehicle’s centre of gravity provides constant axle load
distribution, regardless of the fuel volume
• The vehicle’s extremely low centre of gravity offers maximum directional stability, even in
the most extreme driving situations
Customer benefits
• Front luggage compartment in addition to luggage compartment behind the seats, (108
litres loaded to roof)
• Generous driver and passenger space (head, leg, shoulder clearance)

4.2 FSI V8 engine – high revving
Product concept / function
• Dry sump for motorsport-style lateral acceleration and low centre of gravity
• V8 high-revving concept delivering 420PS and a maximum 8,250 rpm – a genuine sports
car engine
• Lightweight construction based on aluminium crankcase
Customer benefits
• Maximum agility and free-revving response
• Outstanding acceleration and engine sound

R tronic automated-manual gearbox
Product concept / function
• Automated 6-speed manual gearbox with ‘shift by wire’ technology and joystick gear lever
• Tried and proven technology from Audi motorsport
Customer benefits
• Combining the sportiness of a manual gearbox with the advantages of an automatic
• Option to choose between sport and regular shift programme
• Shift paddles on steering wheel and joystick gear lever featuring new-style shift pattern

ESP 8 including ABS, EBD, ASR and EDL systems
Product concept / function
• Driver can select different ESP settings (full system <=> sport mode <=> ESP OFF) to suit
different driving conditions
• Sport mode uses a controller specifically tuned for sports driving
• Developed to promote maximum traction on all surfaces and optimized driver support in
extreme situations
Customer benefits
• High safety allied with high agility
• Driver decides the control strategy

Audi Space Frame (ASF)
Product concept / function
• Aluminium spaceframe body construction
• Intelligent material mix (magnesium, aluminium) for the body structure
• Use of strong aluminium alloys in highly-stressed profile components
• Intelligent Spaceframe concept for high-performance mid-engine sports cars
Customer benefits
• High body rigidity and strength to satisfy stringent comfort and safety requirements
• Weight benefits over steel bodies
• Low weight for optimised performance and inspiring driving dynamics
• Optimised axle load distribution through integrating magnesium technology into the body
structures

Retractable rear spoiler
• The electrically retractable rear spoiler is a unique combination of design and functionality
• Retracted when the vehicle is stationary and in city traffic, the spoiler promotes the flowing
design contours of the rear and increased downforce
• Automatic extension at 75mph (where law permits), retraction at 50mph
• Can also be manually actuated via a separate switch on the centre console

Vehicle safety
• Driver and passenger airbag (full size, two-stage)
• Head-thorax side airbag
• Side impact protection: high-strength aluminium profiles in the doors and lateral
acceleration sensors
• Belt force limiter and belt tensioner (even on rear and side impact) for effective protection
• “Audi Headguard” support system for reducing impact from a rear collision
• Passenger compartment and fuel system remain intact, even in the case of a rear impact or
serious accident (eg 50mph at 70% overlap)
• Fuel switch-off in the event of collision
• Battery and cable disconnect in the event of collision

Standard specification
19" alloy wheels. 5-arm double spoke
design
4-branch exhaust system
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
Anti-theft device
Bi-Xenon Plus Headlights
Brake Lights with LED technology
Cup holder
Decorative inlays - micrometallic
Disc brakes at front and rear
Door mirrors - electrically operated & heated
Driver and front passenger airbags
Driver's Information System (DIS)
Electric lumbar support
Electronic climate control
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Electronic immobiliser
ESP Version 8
Exterior lighting
Fine Nappa leather upholstery
First aid kit with warning triangle
Fuel tank - 90 litres
Interior and instrument lighting
ISOFIX
Leather covered multi-function steering wheel
(with paddle shift on R tronic Model)
Leather gear knob
LED day time running lights
Lockable glove box, with light
Locking wheel bolts
quattro four-wheel-drive
Radio System RNS-E*
Remote central locking
Retractable rear spoiler
Roof lining - black
Scuff plates
Seat belt reminder
Side front airbags
Sports Seats
Sun visor with vanity mirror
Tool kit
Tracking security system - TBA
Tyre mobility system
Valet key
* RNS-E: FM & AM reception with single CD drive (MP3 capable), 2 slots for MMC/SD memory cards
for the playing of MP3 files, 6.5"" TFT colour display, 7 loudspeakers and 5 channel amplifier, total
power 140 Watt.

Optional equipment
Equipment / Design packages
Extended leather package – black. Full Fine Nappa leather upholstery to
dashboard, top shoulder and side panel, storage compartment in door,
monoposto, cowl, knee bolster and function pads
Coloured stitching for extended leather, located on the monoposto, cowl
and cover rear shelf
Alcantara roof lining
Chassis / Brakes
Audi magnetic ride - Adaptive suspension system with two selectable
modes (Normal or Sport). Sensors in the car monitor the road conditions
and adjust the damping effect by varying a magnetic charge which passes
through a fluid-based shock absorber for improved road handling,
outstanding chassis control and excellent driving comfort
Seats
Heated front seats
Electrically adjustable front seats with adjustment for height, forwards
and backwards position, backrest angle and lumbar support
Interior trim
Carbon inlays – to centre console, monoposto, door trim and door handle
Stainless steel pedals
Standard 19” 5-arm double spoke design alloy wheel shown

Audio and Communication
Navigation plus
Bang & Olufsen Sound System – Designed specifically for the Audi R8
providing surround sound reproduction with dynamic compensation for road
noise, digital amplifier and 12 speakers (total output 425 watts)
CD autochanger for six discs, located in glove box
Bluetooth phone preparation (same system as on A3 and A4)
Safety Systems
Audi hill hold assist
Cruise control, for holding any speed above 25mph
Interior Equipment
Garage door opener (HomeLink), programmable radio-operated remote
control for up to 3 compatible doors / gates. Control buttons integrated in
the roof module at the front
Additional Equipment
Deletion of model and engine designation at rear
Engine cover in carbon sigma
Tyre pressure monitoring system


Edited by daz9100 on Thursday 28th September 18:50

krusty

2,473 posts

254 months

Thursday 28th September 2006
quotequote all
Am seriously considering one of these for next year. I think it's fantastic.........

Yertis

18,519 posts

271 months

Friday 29th September 2006
quotequote all
krusty said:
Am seriously considering one of these for next year. I think it's fantastic.........


Lucky sod. I'm seriously considering one in about 15 years time...

ronin.

21 posts

224 months

Friday 29th September 2006
quotequote all
Yertis said:
krusty said:
Am seriously considering one of these for next year. I think it's fantastic.........


Lucky sod. I'm seriously considering one in about 15 years time...

Sharief

6,396 posts

221 months

Friday 29th September 2006
quotequote all
I'd rather have a CarreraS. Far better looking, and not much slower.

Civpilot

Original Poster:

6,235 posts

245 months

Friday 29th September 2006
quotequote all
Some nice Launch event shots here and some very nice Wallpapers.....

www.seriouswheels.com/top-2007-Audi-R8.htm

krusty

2,473 posts

254 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
Sharief said:
I'd rather have a CarreraS. Far better looking, and not much slower.


When Matchbox make an R8 you'll be able to comare the two....

bogie

16,561 posts

277 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
thats a lot of money over say an RS4 saloon .....too many other interesting cars in that price bracket for me Im afraid....now if it was £76K (so £80K min with options) with the 5.2 lump in there and 480-500bhp ish then theyd sell like hotcakes

Civpilot

Original Poster:

6,235 posts

245 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
bogie said:
thats a lot of money over say an RS4 saloon .....too many other interesting cars in that price bracket for me Im afraid....now if it was £76K (so £80K min with options) with the 5.2 lump in there and 480-500bhp ish then theyd sell like hotcakes


They have already sold like hotcakes.... the entire UK allocation for 2007 is sold out and they are taking orders for 2008. And the current rumour is that a certain V10 engine will make it into the car sometime in 2008 anyway

bogie

16,561 posts

277 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
cool - I guess early buyers should get a years driving without depreciation then

no doubt it will be an awesome car and Id sooner have one anyday over a 997 S etc ....its just that Id be too tempted to get a couple of year old Gallardo for that kind of dosh for a weekend car...or an Aston V8 for a daily drive.

FUBAR

17,064 posts

243 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
krusty said:
Sharief said:
I'd rather have a CarreraS. Far better looking, and not much slower.


When Matchbox make an R8 you'll be able to comare the two....


rofl

AndyWoodall

2,630 posts

264 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
Lovely, very impressive looking car. Love that interior. I'm a big 997 fan, but that would need a serious look in if I were in a lucky position to buy.

Jared_m

252 posts

227 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
Maybe its just me but I feel the same as when I saw the M6 and its price tag - "nice car but I wouldn't pay £80k for a BMW". I kind of get the same feeling with this Audi, I like it but wouldn't think about parting with £76k for it.

As another poster said, much rather a used Gallardo or Aston V8.

bogie

16,561 posts

277 months

Saturday 30th September 2006
quotequote all
Jared_m said:
Maybe its just me but I feel the same as when I saw the M6 and its price tag - "nice car but I wouldn't pay £80k for a BMW". I kind of get the same feeling with this Audi, I like it but wouldn't think about parting with £76k for it.

As another poster said, much rather a used Gallardo or Aston V8.


me too im afraid...and look at the savage depreciation on the 6 series...guess a lot of people think the same.

I think the R8 is great and top effort to Audi ..im sure it will be a great drive...I just dont think it offers enough over an RS4 other than it looks like a sports coupe rather than a saloon...but of course their hands are tied - they cant make it *too* fast otherwise the Gallardo may look a bit pointless

EC2

1,505 posts

258 months

Monday 2nd October 2006
quotequote all
Its a lot of ££ for what it is.

ahonen

5,022 posts

284 months

Monday 2nd October 2006
quotequote all
EC2 said:
Its a lot of ££ for what it is.


Alternatively you could say it's a bit of a bargain, which is my opinion.

I love it - it looks menacing and has a corking engine. If the steering is as good as the latest Gallardo's is it'll be a winner. I'll bet a few members of the Porsche/Piech families are a tad unhappy that it's made production...