Here's What Really Makes The Audi R8 V10 Special

Aug 24, 2023

Here's how Audi's V-10-powered Halo model managed to disrupt the performance car scene ever since it was unleashed nearly two decades ago

As far as supercars go, the Audi R8 has ensured its place in the pantheon of some of the all-time greats. And that says a lot about it. This two-seater coupe, also available as a convertible, has gold nestled between its axles. The R8's engine is undeniably one of its best features, but not only that, this supercar managed to stand the test of time, as it is close to completing two successful decades in the market. One of the reasons for that might be its less prohibitive price tag. The R8 is a bit of a blue-collar icon since it's one of those rare supercars that sits in a somewhat accessible price range.

Depending on how you look at it, you can compare it to a Lamborghini Huracán from which it sourced its brilliant engine and transmission, in which case you'd be getting a supercar that performs just as well at a good discount, even though it won't turn as many heads. Part of the experience of owning a supercar is exactly that, turning heads wherever you go. But for those who value the driving experience and performance aspects more than anything else, an R8 fits the bill that much better.

All specifications and performance numbers about the R8 were provided by Audi. Fuel economy data was sourced from fueleconomy.gov.

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Over the years, Audi has proved itself when making some exciting RS sport variants of its cars. But it wasn't until the early 2000s, that they decided to tackle the challenge of building an entirely new supercar from the ground up. And Audi took its time too. The car was first conceived as a concept in 2003 and only went into production in 2006. The first generation featured an all-aluminum naturally aspirated, 4.2-liter V-8, followed up by a 5.2-liter V-10 borrowed from the Lamborghini Gallardo, and had its production run until 2015.

When the second generation, based on the Lamborghini Huracán platform, was conceived (both Audi and Lamborghini belong to the VW Group). The second-gen model took a good leap forward with the use of the brilliant V-10 and new platform while maintaining the core architecture subtle design and outstanding overall performance that made it such a success. The Audi R8 famously even featured in the Iron Man films.

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The heart of the beast sits just behind the driver and passenger and deserves praise as one of the most peculiar, masterfully engineered, internal combustion engines out there. This engine is rather unique, not only for its V-10 architecture but also for its performance characteristics. This naturally aspirated engine has a redline of 8,700 rpm and makes its maximum power at 8,000 rpm. It's a roaring beast to be sure, and requires the driver to push it hard to awaken its full potential.

Engine type

Naturally aspirated V-10

Displacement

5,204 cc (317.5 cu)

Output

602 horsepower

Torque

413 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

3.1 seconds

Top speed

205 MPH

Transmission

7-speed dual-clutch

Drivetrain

RWD or Quattro AWD

Fuel consumption

15 MPG combined

This engine has a 12.7 compression ratio, direct injection, continuous intake, and exhaust camshaft adjustment, and its valve play is compensated hydraulically. It's the pinnacle of German automotive engineering for production cars, and it shows. Looking from above the low-slung R8, the V-10 is visible through the rear window, wrapped around in a carbon fiber compartment, a standard feature on the performance quattro trim, and available on the performance RWD trim.

The top speed and acceleration benchmark performance figures are outstanding and worthy of the supercar moniker. The R8 is not a small car, but it is fairly light, tipping the scales at 3,516 pounds dry, which allows for superior handling and overall dynamic behavior. Its exterior dimensions are as follows:

When it comes time to shave off speed, ventilated disc brakes paired with beefy 245/35 R 19 front and 295/35 R19 tires at the back perform admirably. The steering assistance is electric and varies with speed, and the turning circle is a manageable 36.7 feet. Audi wanted the R8 to be considered by some buyers as a daily driver. The car is quite composed in normal use. Just don't expect to have cargo space for more than a few grocery items. The luggage compartment located behind the seats has room for 4 cubic feet.

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Long past are the days when a sports car was deprived of luxury, comfort, and amenities. The latest R8 sits at the top of Audi's lineup, not just for its incredible performance, but also because it delivers the best the German luxury brand has at its disposal without compromising its main focus. If the R8 driver should feel inclined to listen to something other than the powerful V-10, a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system is available. Featuring 13 speakers and a subwoofer, the system outputs 550 watts of clear sound.

The 12.3-inch HD display that shows the instrument cluster is customizable, including the option for selecting sports modes. The center console touchpad has handwriting recognition technology so that the user can input an entry by 'writing' it instead of selecting between numbers and characters. This touchpad also helps with easy and intuitive map navigation, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are built in.

An available app, the Audi Connect, provides an extra layer of convenience features depending on the chosen plan. This can range from basic Wi-Fi to full-speed internet connection available for up to eight different devices simultaneously, and Amazon Alexa. Audi Connect can also feature, among other things:

Also on the center console is Audi's phone box for wireless charging of your mobile. This feature also connects the phone to the car antenna, improving reception quality.

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The R8 exterior design is both functional and beautiful. Originally penned by the legendary Walter de Silva, the highly advanced passenger cell is easily noticeable from the side, and a peak through the rear window leaves no question in the mind about this being a two-seater, thoroughbred supercar. The R8 distinguishes itself from the rest of Audi's lineup as having a purpose-built design that is closer to a racing car, and it's no wonder why, since the R8 shares 50 percent of its parts with the R8 GT3 LMS race car, according to Audi.

It was built for the road, but born on the track. Looking at it from the side, you can see how much the wheels are accentuated by its low stance. The aerodynamic bodywork is intended to provide downforce at high speeds, while the front fascia sports a big grill and iconic side air inlets to help direct air and provide enough cooling to the engine. T

This is a signature design feature of the R8. At the rear, the big diffusers help blow the air away from the car faster, providing downforce. On each side, a big oval exhaust tip catches the eye, while the rear wing compliments the aerodynamic work for improved high-speed stability.

The R8 is gorgeous to look at, but its appearance is much more subtle and less flamboyant than most supercars, and that is not a bad thing. Some supercar owners might not want to flaunt so much, and driving an R8 might almost be enough to go about a daily ride without attracting too much attention. But any gearhead will recognize the car and know what it is all about. The R8 is Audi's halo supercar that will be fondly remembered long after its production has ended to give way to the electric future the brand has planned.

A car and motorcycle enthusiast, Bruno enjoys writing about and following up on what's happening in the industry. He's easy and friendly. Known to drop the bass on occasion.