Audi adds V8 power to venomous R8 spyder

Will a V8 lessen the bite of the Audi R8 spyder?

Unlikely.

To complement the spotlight V10 engine in its supercar convertible, Audi is adding the 430-hp V8 to round out the powertrain lineup. This is the 4.2-liter FSI unit that will propel the drop-top to 62 mph 4.8 seconds on the way to a top speed of 186 mph. It's paired with the R-tronic sequential transmission or a six-speed manual. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard.

This is the powerplant that also dials up 317.15 lb-ft of torque between 4,500 rpm and 6,000 rpm. It weighs 476 pounds, displacing 4,163 cc with the cylinders banked at 90 degrees. Engine speed is electronically limited to 8,250 rpm.

The body is aluminum spaceframe and weighs just more than 470 pounds. The top is derived from lightweight cloth and will register 93 pounds. The total weight of the car is 3,825 pounds, though Audi curiously includes driver weight in that figure.

Of course, the V8 version features all of the iconic R8 styling, including LED lights front and rear. The rear spoiler extends automatically at 62 mph. The R8 rides on 18-inch wheels, with 19s available.

It arrives in the United States in the first quarter of 2011.

By Greg Migliore