Audi has announced the pricing details of the
limited-edition R8 RWS (Rear Wheel Series) for the UK market. Described as a
purebred version of the Audi R8, the RWS version drives its rear wheels only in
a bid to offer a sharper character down the road and will be available in just
999 examples worldwide.
Turning the R8 into a rear-driven sports car
involves ditching the propshaft, multi-plate clutch and center differential,
which makes it also lighter by 50 kg in the case of the Coupe and by
40 kg in the case of the open-top Spyder.
The world’s first rear-drive Audi features specially
adapted chassis and suspension settings in order to further sharpen the
handling character and the electromechanical power steering now said to offer
more precision and feel.
Power comes from the naturally aspirated and
mid-mounted 5.0-liter V10 engine that produces 532 hp and 540 Nm of torque than can optionally be fitted with a freer sports exhaust.
Audi Sport claims a 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and
a top speed of 198 mph (Spyder: 197 mph).
All UK models come equipped with a generous spec
that includes exclusive 19-inch wheels, all-LED headlights and LED taillights
with dynamic indicators, leather and Alcantara heated sport seats, as well as
the obligatory plaque that signifies the special and limited character of Audi
Sport’s latest model.
The company also offers a full range of
customization options for those who want to further tailor their new Audi R8
RWS. Pricing in the UK starts from £ 112,450 OTR for the Audi R8 Coupe RWS and
£ 121,140 for the Spyder version. Audi expects the first cars to arrive in the
country this March.
