Audi’s R8 gives the driver a racing chance at the checkered flag

Amateur racers will soon have another vehicle to help them attain victory lane now that Audi Sport GmbH has announced its new Audi R8 LMS GT4 racecar. Introduced in New York on April 11, the Le Mans–class (LMS) model has been designed and engineered to meet the performance parameters first established for the GT4 European Series

The rear-wheel-drive competitor is based off of the Audi R8 Coupe, the marque’s powerful daily driver, and shares 60-percent of its componentry with the latter. Built over an Audi Space Frame (ASF) chassis, the car’s body is created from aluminum and composite materials and covers a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V-10 engine that can generate up to 495 hp (variable to specific race requirements) and 405 ft lbs of torque. And a 7-speed double-clutch transmission (with paddle shifters) ensures precise gear engagement. The power train permits a top speed of 155 mph and acceleration from zero to 62 mph in less than 4 seconds.

While no starting price has been officially announced for the car, the expected cost range is between $200,000 and $250,000. Deliveries should begin later this year.