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Audi Le Mans Quattro

For over a decade Audi has shown concept supercars at numerous auto shows, from the all-aluminum Avus (which foreshadowed Audi’s extensive use of aluminum spaceframes) to the stunning Auto Union-inspired Rosemeyer. Still, Audi has yet to bring one to actual production.
The latest in this line of concept supercars is the Audi Le Mans Quattro, a stunning piece that in all likelihood will actually come to fruition. The working name of the 2006MY supercar is RSR, and this concept previews Audi’s first production supercar.
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Based heavily on Lamborghini Gallardo underpinnings (remember, Lamborghini exists under Audi’s wing), the Le Mans Quattro is relatively small for a supercar, meaning that it will likely be faster and wieldier on twisty two-lanes than cars like the Murcielago and Ferrari F360.
The Le Mans Quattro has numerous features that will ensure that it’s a real performer. Weight is kept down due to its aluminum spaceframe construction, as per Audi’s own A2 and A8. The engine is a 5.0L V10 that is presumably based on the Gallardo’s V10, and has twin turbochargers and a version of Volkswagen AG’s FSI direct fuel injection. This powerplant is good for a crushing 610HP. As implied by the car’s name (and consistent with the Audi brand image), the car is equipped with Audi’s Quattro all wheel drive.
Performance specs are impressive. The car is expected to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a mere 3.7 seconds and has a theoretical top speed of 345 km/h, or about 215 mph.
The car’s proportions are markedly cab forward, giving the car just a hint of the visuals of the stunning Rosemeyer concept car, or going even further back, the record breaking Auto Union GP racers of the 1930s. Still, there is nothing retro about the Le Mans Quattro’s styling; the car does in fact preview some upcoming Audi design themes.
So far, word is that the RSR will be a reality, and if it’s anything like the Le Mans Quattro concept shown here in Frankfurt, wealthy enthusiasts appear to have a lot to look forward to.

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