How Do You Rate the Audi R8 Spyder Roof Opening Mechanism?

However, pretty close to that re-bodied Prancing Horse lies the 2017 Audi R8 V10 Spyder, at least regarding price. This Lamborghini from a German mother is only available with the base 540 horsepower engine, so it's not as fast as some of its rivals.

This video from Car Throttle Extra also proves that it's not as sonorous as the Huracan, as the exhaust lacks that final sprinkling of V10 growls and pops. It's almost as if the R8 Spyder is ashamed of being a supercar.

While gearboxes, injectors, and turbos have all become standardized, the mechanisms that cocoon you inside the car are almost like a black art. No wonder everybody is fascinated with the 911 Targa and the MX-5 RF!

The bad news is that like its predecessor, the R8 Spyder doesn't have a shiny piece of metal over its roof. But the mechanism is still kind of cool. Similar to the 911 Cabrio, it uses lightweight metals for the parts that hold the fabric. This reduces weight, while multiple layers ensure optimal sound insulation.

The eye candy comes in the form of what everybody believes to be the engine cover, a large piece of sheet metal with vents over the top that is raised high over the car to make room for the roof to tuck itself in. There are also a couple of black plastic pieces that slide out to cover everything neatly. Some manufacturers ask you to put those in by hand.

The top goes up and down in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h or 31 mph. You can have it in black, brown and red. Audi also says that it's quieter and less turbulent than the old R8. Sure, it's not mind blowing, but at £129,900 this is one of the cheaper super-cabrios, and it's got a timeless quality.