2011 Audi R8 GT

Audi R8 GT specs
Top Speed: 200 mph / 320 km/h
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Engine: 560 HP V10 5.2liter FSI
2011 Audi R8 GT Review

The long wait is over. After months of heightened anticipation, Audi has finally unveiled this hardy R8 variant - easily hitting high scores when it comes to high performance sports cars. Audi has proven once again that an erstwhile great car can become even greater, and it has shown with the limited edition of this high end sports coupe that the standards of superiority and high performance can be redefined in a flash. With the 2011 Audi R8 GT, the company has spun an exciting speedster into a true masterpiece - high on speed and low on weight. This R8 GT power machine is lighter and faster, packing a power punch that is now on the 560 hp range (412 kW). As if this was not enough, this amazing speedster has shed off some 100 kilograms (220 pounds) making it a truly super-fast lightweight high performance sports car.

This track-focused R8 variant is the faster and lighter version of the standard Audi V10, albeit in limited edition, with only 333 supercar units expected to drive off the company's assembly line. The R8 GT hits 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a dizzying 200 km/h is just under 11 seconds. This limited edition 2011 Audi R8 GT is the company's affirmation of its adherence to optimum strength and rigidity through lightweight design and construction philosophy.

Fine Tuning Beyond Power and Body Weight

While our attention is drawn to the amazing improvement in power and industry leading lightweight body frame, the R8 GT supercar actually delivers a long list of improvements from the standard V-10 wheelers. All of these modifications go back to the major revisions in the engine electronics and rigid aluminum body frame.

This limited R8 variant retains the standard tuning that was incorporated into early editions and is generally a top-end version of Gallardo's electronics. Audi's design engineers aptly call it "de-revision." Topping the industry-leading power train enhancements, Audi has pulled all the stops to introduce high precision ESP system for that spectacular but safe riding experience. Indeed, Audi R8 GT race-track supercar goes beyond the sound bites when it promises unmatched safety profile especially on points leading to safe oversteer when running on Sport mode.

Ever wonder how Audi engineers were able to chop some hefty load off the R8 limited edition? The 220-pound trimming was achieved by taking the same path taken by Gallardo Superleggera, and infused polycarbonate and carbon fiber core materials for its rigid body frame. At the core of its lightweight body frame is the proprietary rear-wing component made out of carbon fiber.

The fixed wing that comes in matte finish easily links to a rear hatch that is also made out of carbon fiber. This is one of the major distinctions of this R8 supercar variant from its earlier siblings which have aluminum rear hatches. Audi's top engineers weave their magic by working on other components of the limited edition R8. The rear bumper, along with the vertical vents of its wheel assembly, double-lipped front-end splitter and a large rear diffuser are the other critical variables that went into the weight-reduction equation. For those who are looking for some raw adrenaline rush, the GT tag of this high performing powerhouse offers a perfect face off with the LP50-4 by hitting the 60 km/h run at a mere 3.2 seconds.

Top End Add-on Features

Audi engineers are delivering a strong statement that they are upping the ante and leaving nothing to chance. In fact, going by the extent and level of the "de-revision," one can't help but suspect that the Company is going on the edge of overkill this time around. This limited edition sports car masterpiece goes through a dizzying transformation with its focused and in-detail modifications. Going beyond the modified rear wing component, one cannot miss its brake calipers.

There is a long list of enhancements that sets this high-end supercar apart and way ahead of its older siblings and close rivals in its category. This is by no means an upstart that blows over with inconsequential performance attributes. At the back end, one can easily be drawn to the prominence of its softball-size, round exhaust pipes that is snugly positioned just below a matte-finished valance.

Even the superior taillight settings were not spared from this major upgrade work-up. The primary component of the Audi R8 GT limited edition boasts of a classy look with its clear lenses and raw dark finish. There are also interesting developments along the sides. The GT tags are paired with matte-finished carbon mirror caps and side blades. Of course, it makes a total coverage of its tag as a car extraordinaire with its intricate but hardy forged wheels holding its modern braking assembly made from a composite material of carbon and ceramic.

To top it all, the R8 super sports car delivers the coup de grace with the striking and exhilarating front end look. The unique combination of front grille in matte-black finish and the curvy winglets made out of carbon fiber alongside regular LED headlights make this one a total show-stopper. This limited edition speedster comes in choice color options giving you the right pick that will make a good extension of your personality and character. Your color choices include Phantom Black, Ice Silver, Suzuka Gray and Samoa Orange.

While we are getting the treat that will surely last us a lifetime, the exterior features are not even half the story. Sliding inside the raw black and gray inspired cockpit, one can easily feel hot juices flowing through their veins. The power of this road masterpiece is simply overwhelming. Its dashing and luxurious character can be easily gleaned from the Alcantara theme of its pillars, headliner, steering wheel and parking brake stick.

Audi R8 intricate interior design concept is perfectly balanced by the infusion of sharkskin elements along its door panels, instrument dash and cowl.

For those who dare to draw the speed juices from this road powerhouse, Audi provides an option that will charge up the supercar's configuration with a race package that features, among others, a bolt-in type of roll bar or race-standard 4-point seat belts for added safety, a standard fire extinguisher, and a precise battery kill switch. Serious racers also have the option of upgrading their standard bolt-in bar to the more elaborate full-roll type of cage.

Availability and Money Matters

The sporty Audi R8 GT is expected to have a price tag of €193,000, which at present exchange rate, will be selling at around $250,000 once it finally reaches US shores. So, the next logical question that we have to ask is whether we will actually see them hit the US market or not. There are no official reports as of yet, although experts believe the some of the 333 units will ultimately reach the US market. Industry analysts are optimistic that if and when it finally reaches the US territory, the Audi R8 GT will be selling at around $225,000.