Audi R8 V10 RWS Arrives as the First Rear-Wheel Drive R8

There were speculations about Audi planning to introduce a rear-wheel drive R8 model at the Frankfurt Motor Show and they turned out to be true. The new Audi R8 V10 RWS has been unveiled by the German automaker making it the first production model by the company with a rear-wheel drive.

Talking at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH stated that the Audi R8 V10 RWS is for ‘purists’ and will be a limited edition model. It is powered by a mid-mounted naturally aspirated V-10 engine paired with a seven-speed twin-clutch S-tronic transmission that delivers 540 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft of torque to the wheels. By removing the Quattro all-wheel drive system, the automaker was able to reduce the R8 coupe’s weight by 50 kilograms and 40 kg for Spyder. The rear-wheel drive R8 coupe will be able to hit the 100 km/h mark in just 3.7 seconds, while the Spyder will take 3.8 seconds. The top speed remains at 198 mph (318 km/h).

The standard electromechanical power steering along with the 245/35 and 295/35 tires ensure impressive handling. Also, with the right settings on the Audi Drive Select and Stability Control System, the drivers will be able to perform drifts easily.

The pricing for the coupe model starts at 140,000 euros, while the Spyder model costs 153,000 euros. If you remember, R8 Spyder V10 Plus also joined the lineup recently.