Audi R8 GT Spyder

Audi showed the limited-production R8 GT Spyder at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show . The ultra-high-performance convertible is a lighter weight, more-powerful version of the current Audi R8 5.2 Spyder. It closely follows the pattern set by the R8 GT coupe that was displayed at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The “regular” R8 5.2 Spyder has a 525-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine. The R8 GT Spyder has the same engine, but it’s been modified to produce 560 horsepower. It comes mated to Audi’s 6-speed single-clutch R tronic automated-manual transmission. It can be set to shift like an automatic, or drivers can change gears manually using steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard as well.

Along with the added power comes reduced curb weight. Audi engineers have removed about 190 pounds from the standard car. Much of the reduction comes through increased use of carbon-fiber composite material. Audi says the R8 GT Spyder accelerates from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of nearly 197 mph.

The interior is trimmed in black leather with contrast stitch detailing. Specific features include white-faced gauges and R8 GT logos. Other standard equipment includes LED headlights and taillights, automatic climate control and a navigation system. Options include a top-end Bang & Olufsen sound system and additional carbon-fiber trim.

Audi will build only 333 R8 GT Spyders worldwide. We expect about 90 of them will be available in America. Pricing has not been announced, but this rare supercar will probably start somewhere north of $200,000.