AUDI R8 V1O SPYDER PRICED FOR SOUTH AFRICA

Audi South Africa will now offer its customers the choice of either going topless or hard top on their supercar. That’s because the new R8 V10 Spyder (Cabriolet) can be ordered immediately for something over R2 million.

I loved the R8 V10, its brawn and bravado, its easy-to-use everyday-car feel, and of course its fast wheels. The Spyder is not just a mere topless version, but it’s its own man, even though cynics will snort at the idea that

a “blow my hair all over” supercar is a man. At the risk of sounding a little on the “other side”, this is a beautiful man indeed. Instead of following recent trends, Audi is sticking to the classic canvass roof choice which can open or close at the touch of a button in just 19 seconds. The Z-shaped top can be operated at speeds of up to 50km/h, giving the driver great flexibility should a sudden downpour occur while enjoying a drive.

Speaking of drive, the same 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 is used under the bonnet. Maximum power is 386kW at 8000rpm while peak torque is 530Nm at 6500rpm. Audi claims a 4.1 second 0 – 100km/h time for the Spyder. If that doesn’t wet your pants then the top speed will. Normally the German trio of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz limit their cars’ top speeds to 250km/h. Not this time. Audi R8 V10 Spyder hits 313km/h with no trouble at all. Drive is through all four wheels using the quattro AWD system and either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed R tronic with shifting paddles behind the steering wheel.

Techno gismos and nice comfort creatures include the LED headlights (not just the LED lashes), 19-inch wheels, a reverse parking camera, MMI Plus navigation system, a B&O sound system and nappa leather seats.

By no means a bargain, the Audi R8 V10 Spyder will sell at R2 104 000 for the manual and R2 149 000 for the R tronic. But consider that direct rivals will put you out at least R2.5 million each and you begin to see the value.