Audi R8 Spyder (2010) first pictures

By Ben Pulman

First Official Pictures

10 September 2009 10:15

These are the first pictures of the Audi R8 Spyder, after the images were leaked onto the internet ahead of the car’s debut at the Frankfurt motor show next week.

Power is only expected to come from the 5.2-litre V10 engine, so the Spyder will send 518bhp and 390lb ft to all four wheels via either a six-speed manual or an automated-manual R-tronic gearbox.

The R8 Spyder also has the same double-strake front intakes and rear vents as the V10, plus the chrome-surrounded central grille and twin oval exhausts.

The obvious difference is the loss of the fixed roof, which folds away under the rear deck ahead of the engine, a la the Gallardo Spyder. Twin vented flying buttress break up the expanse of bodywork, the side blades are now absent and the windscreen surround is brushed aluminium. 

The R8 Spyder is expected to go on sale in early 2010, and cost at least £120,000.

By Ben Pulman