The Audi R8 V10 has earned its “supercar” title, but as The Drive’s Lawrence Ulrich can attest, it handles more like a daily driver. Its combination of looks and drivability (and looks!) has earned the brand a special place in the hearts of auto journos and enthusiasts alike. Also, Iron Man drove one.
Audi has just announced the price of their 2017 R8 V-10 Spyder, and although expensive, it still undercuts the competition. Priced in at $175,100, the 2017 R8 V-10 Spyder is $24,900 cheaper than the base Lamborghini Huracan RWD Spyder. With nearly identical performance specs, one has to assume this pricing will at least somewhat cut into the Lambo’s sales—sure to be a topic at the next Volkswagen all-hands executive meeting. The new R8 V-10 Spyder will be powered the same 5.2-liter 540-hp V-10 found in the coupe, and will be able to hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds—0.1 seconds faster than the Lamborghini Huracan RWD Spyder. These performance numbers can be credited to the R8’s ASF aluminum-and-carbon-fiber construction, as well as its seven-speed S-tronic dual clutch transmission.
If owners are too impatient to come to a complete stop before dropping their top, they can cruise at 31 mph and expect the 97-pound top to recline within 20 seconds. You know, if you’re into rolling and drop-topping at the same time.