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For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.

The uprated R8 GT3 engine now develops 500 bhp which is delivered to the rear wheels via a newly developed 6 speed sequential sports gearbox. The car ditches the Quattro all-wheel drive system in favor of the classic rear wheel drive layout of a GT racer, since the GT3 regulation prohibit the use of a 4 wheel drive. An updated front end and a huge rear wing spolier help keep the car planted to the tarmac.

The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. Ever since the R8 was unveiled we’ve been inundated with enquiries 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 Quattro system of the road car has been deleted to satisfy FIA regulations (which forbid the use of four-wheel-drive), so the 373kW+ developed by the GT3 R8’s tuned engine is channeled exclusively to the rear tyres. Reprofiled front bodywork and that enormous rear wing and diffuser help increase downforce, but surprisingly the suspension on the GT3 car is largely based upon the production car’s standard equipment. Larger air intakes and heat chimneys help keep the R8 cool in the heat of battle.

The Audi R8, which bears the project name R16 within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

Ingolstadt – For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.