(June 7, 2011) The extreme Audi R8 GT quite literally got its second wind last week as a new open-air Spyder version.

Distilling the celebrated R8 V-10 formula into an even more concentrated form, the more intensively weight optimized GT soft-top will deliver its breathtaking pace and handling poise to just 333 customers worldwide.



They will have the opportunity to formally register their interest in right-hand-drive versions of the new convertible. Ordering will begin later this summer ahead of first customer deliveries in early 2012.

The two-seater will bow this fall at the Frankfurt motor show, just ahead of the sales launch. It draws heavily on the earlier R8 GT coupe, sharing elements of its styling, lightweight construction and mechanical package.

At the heart of the new Audi is a powered-up version of the standard R8 Spyder's 5.2-liter V-10 engine kicking out 552 horsepower. Drive is sent through a standard six-speed sequential-manual gearbox with paddle-shift capability and a viscous-coupling all-wheel-drive system set up to provide a nominal rear-wheel-drive bias.

With select carbon-fiber body panels, a lightened interior and carbon-ceramic brakes helping to reduce curb weight over the standard R8 5.2 FSI quattro Spyder, the R8 GT Spyder is claimed to hit 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds and have a top speed of 197 mph.

Sources: Audi, AutoWeek