Audi R8 V10 Spyder 2012

The R8 V10 Spyder is the convertible version of Audi ’s mid-engined, 10-cylinder R8 supercar. As with its fixed-roof sibling, the R8 V10 Spyder is based on the same platform as the Lamboghini Gallardo and features an excellent balance of extreme performance and docile around-town driving manners. For those seeking a more affordable everyday exotic, Audi offers coupe and drop-top versions of the R8 with a V8.

This 5.2-liter V10 engine delivers an impressive 525 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, along with peak torque of 391 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm. The sprint to 62 mph takes just 4.1 seconds, compared to just 3.7 seconds for the coupe R8 V10.

Accelerating to 124 mph is a similarly brisk 12.7-second trip. Top speed is 195 mph.

Fuel consumption for the six-speed manual version is rated at 12 city, 20 highway mpg. The R-tronic automated manual gearbox improves the city figure to 13 mpg - highway mileage remains unchanged.

Notably absent are the R8's trademark aluminum "side blades." Other visual changes for the Spyder model include additional air intakes located behind the seats as well as a pair of safety roll bars. The placement of the fuel filler cap was also changed due to the lack rear pillars. Changes under sheet metal are focused around chassis strengthening, but otherwise, Audi says the V10 Spyder is mostly unchanged from its hard-top counterpart. Cosmetically, the exterior gains high gloss black air inlet grilles, spoiler lip and rear outlet grilles. Exhaust tips are also swapped for oval tips.

It is worth noting, however, that both the R8 V10 and R8 V10 Spyder feature an aluminum double wishbone suspension which is tuned for higher performance than the suspension found in the 4.2 model.

The convertible top weighs just 93 pounds, helping to keep the car’s center of gravity down low, and can be raised or lowered in just 19 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.
Uber-Audi Features
 Befitting the car's considerable price, the R8 V10 Spyder comes standard with a host of features including a navigation system with 3D maps and a 6.5-inch LCD display, a 465-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 12 speakers, fine nappa leather sports seats, a rear parking camera that pairs with ultrasonic sensors and Bluetooth connectivity with seatbelt-mounted speakers for easy hands-free communication.

The V10 Spyder also features Audi's magnetic ride adaptive damping system with manual Sport and Normal sport modes.