2007 Audi R8

The Audi R8 is a mid-engined sports car introduced by the German automaker Audi in 2007.

The first appearance of the car was in 2006, appearing at auto shows and events all over the world. The R8 is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo platform, as Audi has full ownership of subsidiary Lamborghini S.p.A..

Audi announced in 2005 that the name of the successful Audi R8 race car would be used for a new road car in 2007, the Audi R8, based on the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, appearing at the 2003 Geneva Auto Show and 2003 International Motor Show. The R8 was officially launched at the Paris Auto Show on 30 September 2006. There is some confusion with the name, which the car shares with the Le Mans winning R8 LMP. Originally, many thought the car would be called the R9 (as there is a gap in numbering left when Audi announced the R8's successor, the diesel-powered R10).

The Audi R8 is equipped with a 4.2 L FSI V8 engine developing 420 PS (414 hp/309 kW) and 317 ft·lbf (430 N·m), the same engine used in the B7 Audi RS4.

The transmission is either a manual gearbox with metal gate, or a "R-tronic" gearbox (single-clutch semi-automatic sequential manual). These options are the same as those available on the Lamborghini Gallardo. A double clutch gearbox (Direct-Shift Gearbox - DSG, now badged by Audi as "S-tronic") is not currently (as of January 2008) available.

The R8 has a dry weight of 1560 kg (3439 lb). Its suspension utilizes magneto rheological dampers.

As Audi AG owns Lamborghini (Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.), 15% of the R8 is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis. The R8 is made distinct by its exterior styling, cabin, engine, and pricing.

The Audi R8 also features an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, and "Audi Ceramic" Carbon-Ceramic composite brakes with monobloc alloy Brembo calipers on all four wheels.