Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the 5-time Le Mans winner, the Audi R8, into a spectacular production 2-seat version. As the 1st Audi mid-engined sports car, the 2008 Audi R8 features a 420 horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent all-wheel drive, aluminum body and Audi Space Frame. The Audi R8 sits wide and low on the road, the strongly accentuated rear end appearing to flex its muscles like a sprinter ready for the off. Behind the doors, a large-surface paint finished 'sideblade' air deflector sweeps between the wheel arch and the roof section, delivering air for the V8 to breathe as well as for cooling. An automatically extending rear spoiler is deployed to assist the R8 in using the wind. Estimated top speed is up to 187 mph, and blast from 0-to-62 mph time of 4.6 seconds. The totally driver-oriented cockpit of the R8 is pushed far forward. Behind the cabin, is the V8, visible both through the large, shield-shaped rear window and from inside the car.

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