The 2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS: A Symphony of Speed and Style
ABT Sportsline pulled the cover off its newest creation, the ABT Audi R8 GTS, at the Motorshow Geneva. Dressed in a compelling red chrome finish, the model exhibited its self-confidence and elegance for the first time. The car's central structure is dominated by carbon, creating a dramatic contrast with the fiery exterior tone, from the hood all the way to the rear wing.
Striking Design and Superior Weight Management
The Motorsport Department at ABT Sportsline meticulously crafted this unique iteration of the Audi R8, prioritizing not only an alluring aesthetic but also an ideal weight distribution. The car's dynamic carbon inlays and covers on the engine and convertible top hint at its racing pedigree, making it a standout in the crowd.
The use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CRP) in the vehicle's construction further illustrates the focus on weight management. The front skirt, rear skirt, windscreen frame cover, red air scoops, engine bonnet, and mirrors are not just design elements; they embody the quest for lightweight performance. This makes the vehicle remarkably light and well-poised for maximum performance.
Enhanced Powertrain
The heart of the ABT Audi R8 GTS is a muscular 5.2-litre V10 engine that boasts a substantial upgrade from the standard model, pushing out an impressive 620 HP (456 kW) compared to the standard model's 525 HP (386 kW). This signifies an almost 20% increase in performance, a significant statement in the supercar realm. The convertible sports car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 320 km/h, making it a dream for speed enthusiasts while maintaining practicality for everyday use.
Road-Hugging Suspension and High-End Acoustics
Thanks to the ABT Suspension, the R8 GTS exhibits optimal handling at all times, whether cruising country roads or sprinting down a straightaway. Meanwhile, the sports exhaust system not only provides a melodious soundtrack but also plays an integral part in the design concept. It flawlessly blends with the diffuser, rear wing, and trapeze-shaped rear skirt, enhancing the car's overall aggressive appearance.
Luxurious Interiors
The inside of the ABT R8 GTS is as refined as the outside. The ABT Sportsline team meticulously enhanced the interior, covering the sports steering wheel, centre console, shifting gate, and parts of the door panels in red carbon. The contrast between the new leather coverings on the remaining parts of the doors and dashboard and the expressive red and black leather seats creates an atmosphere of elegance and sportiness. Red safety belts and illuminated door sill panels further complete the immersive and luxurious aesthetic of the ABT R8 GTS.
Final Thoughts
With the unveiling of the 2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS, ABT Sportsline has once again proven their prowess in automotive design and performance enhancement. The car's aggressive exterior design, substantial power boost, and luxurious interiors embody a well-rounded supercar that is not just all about speed, but also aesthetics and practicality. However, the use of CRP across a variety of external parts raises some concerns about the car's durability in the long run. Time will tell how the car fares, but as it stands, the 2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS is a head-turner that surely causes hearts to skip a beat.
-Ed
2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS
