Frankfurt Auto Show: Audi R8 Spyder

German manufacturer Audi pulled the wraps off the Spyder version of the Audi R8 and released full details and photos of the new sports open-top. Those of you who were expecting a revolutionary appearance, in terms of both design and engine, may be a bit disappointed...That is if a 5.2 FSI quattro engine can be disapponting.

The good old R8 got its roof chopped off and became a Sypder. That's about the only visible difference between it and its older sibling. This, however, does not minimize the performances of the 5.2l TSI engine, the same as in the regular R8. It develops a heart-stopping 525 hp at 8,000 rpm (rev limit is reached at 8,700) and 530 Nm of torque.

Translated in on-road performance, this means 4.1 seconds naught to 60 mph acceleration time and 12.7 seconds naught to 124 mph. Top speed is rated at 313 km/h (194.49 mph) for the version equipped to a six-speed manual transmission.

The undercarriage of the Spyder uses double triangular wishbones on all four wheels, with hydraulic rack-and-pinion power steering used for "precise road contact". The chassis is, Audi says, built for "comfort". To blame for that is the Audi magnetic ride, which uses magnetic fields in the shock absorbers to adjust their response to road conditions.

The Spyder's interior is pretty much as you would expect from an R8. Comfort comes from full-leather package (Fine Nappa leather, in six different colors), a sound system from Bang & Olufsen, an automatic air conditioning system and heated seats.

Infotainment is insured thanks to the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic. Information is relayed via a new, high resolution 6.5 inch display.

The open-top will be put on sale in the following days, with deliveries expected to begin in Germany in the first quarter of 2010. Starting price for the Spyder is 156,400 euros.