Given the propensity of supercars to lose their tops, a drop-top version of the Audi R8 was almost inevitable. But it wasn't the original V-8-powered R8 4.2 that lost its top, but rather the new R8 5.2, which is powered by a 518-hp, 391-lb-ft 5.2-liter V-10 mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed R tronic sequential transmission. 0-62 mph is achieved in just 4.1 seconds, top speed sits at 195 mph.
The car features the R8 5.2 coupe's LED head and taillight fixtures. Its nose wears the distinct two tier gills inside each lower front intake rather than the triple set adorning the 4.2. Also distinguishing its V-10 trim are twin oval tail pipes, a more sculpted under diffuser, and unique 19-in. wheels. As expected, the Spyder loses the prominent side blades found on the hard top R8s.
Thanks to the use of a cloth soft-top, which can be opened or closed at speeds up to 31 mph, the Spyder puts on minimal pounds. The top itself weighs just 66 lbs and the car as a whole is said to weigh just 13 lbs more than the coupe despite additional reinforcements in the sills, A-pillar, center tunnel, rear wall, and floor pan to improve chassis rigidity.
The R8 Spyder will go on sale in Germany in the first quarter of 2010 at a price of 156,400 euros ($230,581). Audi has not yet announced an on-sale date or pricing for the U.S.