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Audi R8 Gets a V10

The Audi R8 V10 will be debuting at the Detroit Motor Show and there are rumors that a cabrio is coming in 2010, meaning that Audi is trying to make this car even more desirable.

The new model will pack a 5.2-liter V10 chucking out 520 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque and except for the double exhaust pipes, instead of four, there are no differences on aesthetics. New wheels, upgraded brakes, and little interior changes.

There will also be a convertible version and this one will feature both engines. From the spy photos, the R8 looks apart, reminding us of a Ferrari Spyder. This version will hit the European market in 2009, while US clients will have to wait until 2011. According to C&D, the reason for the delayed Spyder (Seaside) launch is because of dealers that "have their hands full allocating coupes."

The power blades will be a bit smaller so they can accommodate a power-operated soft top, while the interior changes minimal.

The Audi R8 shares its platform with the Lamborghini Gallardo, but the two cars have different characters. One is an easy to use all day supercar and the other is a top of the line racing horse with odd design and exclusive character.

The real life competitors for the Audi R8 are BMW M6 and the super quick Porsche 911. It will definitely look better than the other two (or at least that's what we think) and with the new 5.2 liter V10, borrowed from the Lamborghini Gallardo 560-4, it just might have a chance at the title.

The 4.2 liter V8 will be available in parallel with the new power plant, but there are also rumors that it will be taken out in the future, in case demand drops.
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