Tuning company MTM calls itself the 'Audi refiner', and in the case of the R8 GT3-2 that's definitely accurate: four-wheel drive has become two.
The rear-drive R8 conversion supercharges the standard car's 4.2-litre V8, giving it an R8 V10 trumping 552bhp and a 0-62mph sprint that matches the ten-cylinder version exactly. It takes 3.9 seconds for the record and top speed is 197mph.
MTM claims its R8 is the only rear-wheel drive road legal Audi - and the first for over 40 years. The suspension is upgraded and is adjustable, attached to wheels of 20-inch diameter shod in either Dunlop Sport Maxx or Michelin Cup Sport low profile tyres. The brake discs are ventilated and big.
Despite having an engine based on the V8 R8, the body looks V10-based with its chrome cross-pattern grille and dual pipes. MTM has added a carbon fibre kit too, in the form of new front and rear spoilers, and a pair of side skirts.
There's no pricing detail yet, but the upgrade can be ordered as an aftermarket conversion by existing R8 owners. If we'd bought our R8 before the V10 came out, we'd be more than tempted.
Mark Nichol - 9 Apr 2010