Limited Rear-Drive Audi R8 RWS Priced From £112,450 OTR In The UK

Audi has announced the pricing details of the limited-edition R8 RWS (Rear Wheel Series) for the UK market.

Described as a purebred version of the Audi R8, the RWS version drives its rear wheels only in a bid to offer a sharper character down the road and will be available in just 999 examples worldwide.

Turning the R8 into a rear-driven sports car involves ditching the propshaft, multi-plate clutch and center differential, which makes it also lighter by 50kg (110lbs) in the case of the Coupe and by 40kg (88lbs) in the case of the open-top Spyder.

The world’s first rear-drive Audi features specially adapted chassis and suspension settings in order to further sharpen the handling character and the electromechanical power steering now said to offer more precision and feel.

Power comes from the naturally aspirated and mid-mounted 5.0-liter V10 engine that produces 532hp (540PS) and 398lb-ft (540Nm) of torque than can optionally be fitted with a freer sports exhaust. Audi Sport claims a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 3.7 seconds (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and a top speed of 198mph (Spyder: 197mph).

All UK models come equipped with a generous spec that includes exclusive 19-inch wheels, all-LED headlights and LED taillights with dynamic indicators, leather and Alcantara heated sport seats, as well as the obligatory plaque that signifies the special and limited character of Audi Sport’s latest model.

The company also offers a full range of customization options for those who want to further tailor their new Audi R8 RWS.

Pricing in the UK starts from £112,450 OTR for the Audi R8 Coupe RWS and £121,140 for the Spyder version. Audi expects the first cars to arrive in the country this March.