Audi’s first attempt at a mid-engine sports-cum-exotic car proves to be “a winner on the track” This everyday drivable sports-car spells perfection with its aggressive styling and competes with the Porsche 911 and Ferrari F430 at a far less price. The Auto Press ranks the Audi R8 4 out of 4 “Exotic Sports Cars”.
The 2009 Audi R8 is a two door mid-engine car and comes equipped with a 420 horsepower V8 engine, standard Quattro all wheel drive with six-speed automatic or manual transmission. A recorded 0 to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds, the Audi has all the makings of the exotic Lamborghini Gallardo but, at a far lesser price, gives it a run for its money.
What make this car strikingly visible are its 12 LED bulbs under each headlamp. These can be used in the day or night. The other interesting detail is the placement of side blades behind the door on each flank which while giving the Audi R8 a revolutionary look also serves the purpose of routing air to the engine. The placement of the engine in the mid section draws attention to its exterior from a distance
Equal attention has been paid to the interior. The low comfortable seats are likened to a cockpit. Similar to racing cars, the controls are “monoposto style” placed in an arc around the driver’s seat for easy maneuvering. The head and leg room are designed for tall people. The engine noise level inside the car is amazingly non-existent due to its excellent sound damping feature.
Standard features include luxurious sporty leather seats, automatic climate control, heated front seats, auto dimming rearview mirrors, electronic cruise control, stability and traction control and a seven-speaker Audi sound system. Optionally available is a Bang & Olufsen Sound System which has an additional 5 speakers. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is no different from the other Audi sports cars.
The Audi R8 standard features for active and passive safety include dual-stage front air bags as well as side air bags. There have been issues regarding visibility in the front and rear due to its low seating. To combat this issue an optional Convenience Package is offered. This comes equipped with a parking system aided with rearview mirrors.
A veritable head turner, the Audi R8 mid-engine has been reviewed to be unique in its styling and everyday drivability.
2009 Audi R8 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Audi R8 2-door coupe
Wheelbase, in. 104.3
Overall Length, in. 174.5
Overall Width, in. 75.0
Overall Height, in. 49.3
Curb Weight, lbs. 3605
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 3.5
Standard Payload, lbs. –
Fuel Capacity, gals. 23.8
Seating Capacity 2
Front Head Room, in. –
Max. Front Leg Room, in. –
Rear Head Room, in. –
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. –
Engines dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.2 /254
Horsepower @ rpm. 420 @ 7800
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 317 @ 4500
Availability Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
6-speed manual 13/20
6-speed automated manual 13/18
2009 Audi R8 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Base 2-door coupe, manual $109,000 $101,370 $1,000
Base 2-door coupe, automatic $118,000 $109,740 $1,000
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