The Audi R8 GT Spyder follows in the wheel tracks of its coupé sister to offer a more focused driving experience than the standard drop-top model.
Audi has shed 85kg from the GT Spyder to give an all-up weight of 1,640kg. This has been achieved by making the engine's support frame from magnesium and forming the body's soft-top cover and side panels from carbon fibre rather than aluminium. Carbon fibre is also used for the front and rear spoilers and back bumper.
Further weight has been trimmed from the gearbox, wheels and brakes. Inside, this R8's seats are made from glassfibre shells, which alone save 31.5kg over a standard R8 convertible's pews. The seats are covered in Alcantara and have "GT" logos stitched into them, while the satnav system features a built-in lap timer.
Each of the 333 limited edition R8 GT Spyders comes with a unique numbered plaque and a 560hp version of the 5.2-litre V10 engine. This is up form the standard car's 518bhp and helps the GT from 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 317km/h. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive is standard, as is a six-speed R-tronic gearbox.
The four-wheel drive system has been modified to send more power to the rear wheels, emphasising the R8 GT Spyder's greater race track bias. Lowered suspension also helps on track, dropping the GT by 10mm over standard, while 19-inch alloy wheels and ceramic brakes complete the running gear.