The Audi R8 Spyder (42, facelift) 5.2 FSI V10 quattro, produced from July 2012 to July 2015, represents a significant evolution of Audi’s flagship sports car. This open-top variant of the R8, falling within the second generation (42) lifecycle, combined the high-performance capabilities of the 5.2-liter V10 engine with the added thrill of convertible driving. Positioned as the premium offering within the R8 Spyder range during its production run, it catered to buyers seeking an uncompromising blend of power, luxury, and open-air exhilaration. The facelift brought subtle but important styling revisions and refinements to the already successful R8 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | R8 |
| Generation | R8 Spyder (42, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 FSI V10 (525 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | July, 2012 |
| End of production | July, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 22.2 l/100 km (10.6 US mpg, 12.7 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 349 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 313 km/h (194.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.3 kg/Hp, 305.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 6500 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 6500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTYA |
| Engine displacement | 5204 cm3 (317.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 300 kg (661.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 100 l (3.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in.) |
| Width | 1929 mm (75.94 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1244 mm (48.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 783 mm (30.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/35 R19; 295/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro lies the CTYA engine code, a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10. This engine is a direct descendant of the V10 used in the Lamborghini Gallardo, showcasing Audi’s close ties to its Italian sister brand. The ‘FSI’ designation indicates direct fuel injection, a technology crucial for maximizing power and efficiency. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 12.5:1 and utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for excellent breathing and contributes to the engine’s impressive 8000 rpm redline. The engine produces 525 horsepower at 8000 rpm and 390.91 lb.-ft. of torque at 6500 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, delivering power to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.2 FSI V10 engine delivers a thrilling driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes just 3.9 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 194.49 mph. The manual transmission provides precise gear changes, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, even in challenging conditions. Compared to potential lower-powered variants, the 5.2L offers a significantly more visceral and engaging driving experience. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it relatively easy to control, despite the immense power on tap.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, upgraded leather packages, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Spyder also featured a fully automatic soft top that could be raised or lowered in seconds, allowing drivers to enjoy open-air motoring at the touch of a button.
Chassis & Braking
The R8 Spyder’s chassis is constructed primarily of aluminum, contributing to its relatively low weight. The suspension utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car also features ABS (Anti-lock braking system) as standard.
Market Reception & Comparison
The R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. While fuel economy was not a strong point (15.8 US mpg combined), it was considered acceptable for a high-performance sports car. Compared to other high-end convertibles of the time, the R8 Spyder offered a unique combination of German engineering, Italian flair, and all-weather capability thanks to the quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Legacy
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro remains a highly desirable sports car in the used car market. The 5.2-liter V10 engine is known for its reliability, provided it is properly maintained. Regular oil changes and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals are crucial for ensuring the engine’s longevity. The R8’s iconic design and exhilarating driving experience continue to attract enthusiasts, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
