Audi R8 GT Spyder: Lots of new photos + Video

Audi R8 GT Spyder - New Video & photos

Just a couple of weeks ago Audi launched the Audi R8 GT Spyder, a topless version of the hardcore R8 GT. And it looks good.

But then  it should. Audi are going to want the best part of £200k in exchange for the convertible R8 GT which is, by any measure, a sizeable amount of money.

Is the R8 GT Spyder worth that much? After all, it’s a price that’s more than a Ferrari 458 Italia or a McLaren MP4-12C.

Admittedly those two supercars – the best in their sector –  don’t have a topless version yet, but they probably won’t be any more costly than the R8 GT Spyder when they do arrive.

In terms of performance and power the R8 GT Spyder does offer an impressive package. The 5.2 litre Lamborghini V10 has been tweaked and fettled to deliver 552bhp and 398lb/ft of torque, enough for a 3.8 second dash to 60mph and a 200mph top speed.

And it will grip well with all wheel drive, even if it may compromise the feel somewhat. But by comparison the 458 Italia does the same sprint in 3.4 seconds and the MP4-12C in 3.3 seconds. And they probably handle better too.

Maybe the reliability that Audi build in makes the R8 GT Spyder worth the price. But at more than the best two supercars there are – and probably an unbelievable £80k more than the regular R8 V10 Spyder, which is just 0.3 seconds slower – it’s a hard price to get your head round.

Still, just 66 Audi R8 GT Spyders are coming to the UK so we’re sure Audi will find 66 buyers who are willing to part with that much for what many consider a ‘pretend’ supercar – a pretend supercar with dodgy gearbox, at that.

Maybe the extra photos and video we’ve got hold of will convince you one way or the other. The R8 GT Spyder does look properly good and goes properly well.

But £200k?

(24 photos – click any thumbnail for full gallery)

By Cars UK