Audi R8 GT3

Audi develops a 500 hp race version of the R8.
This new car will be available to the customer sport program clients in the fall of 2009. The logistics and factory space for this program is being created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm, and Gyor. With 500 plus hp the car has been built to be eligible in a number of classes in different race series.

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"The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sport program," explains the Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled we've been inundated with enquires about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series. Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the race version comes with the typical GT rear wheel drive.
The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential gear box.
The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line.
Car safety equipment is a major design feature in the new R8.
A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.
The race version, which bears the project name "R16" within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. In mid-august, the first prototype was successfully completed and put in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

What an incredibility beautiful look for a sports race car. We look forward to seeing this car next year in:
FIA GT3 European Championship.
British and Beligan GT Championship.
American LeMans Series.