WEST LONDON AUDI UNVEILS R8 V10 SPYDER

The world’s largest Audi Centre (dealership) opens its doors to the public in a few weeks time. West London Audi covers an area of 190 000 square-ft and was the host of the German brand’s newest uncover. Audi UK used the place to showcase the new R8 V10 Spyder (cabriolet) to 300 guests.

We’ve seen the car being unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It’s basically the same as the one we drove in Kayalami but has one major difference; the canvass rooftop. Passengers can operate the roof electronically using a button and it folds within 19 seconds into the rear just over the engine bay.

The engine is a 5.2-litre V10 worth 386kW (518bhp) and torque of 530Nm. Audi says it will go from 0 – 100km/h in 4.1 seconds and reach a top end of 312km/h.

UK prices will start at £109,580 OTR (R1.27 million) for the 6-speed manual and £114,670 OTR (R1.3 million) for the R tronic automatic. Orders can be placed at West London Audi while first deliveries only take place in early 2010.

Audi South Africa is still studying the possibility of bringing the R8 V10 Spyder here but pricing remains a major issue. With the strengthening of the Rand against the three major currencies I think there’s a strong case for it.