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{{Short description|Le Mans Prototype race car}}
{{About|the 1999–2006 race car used in sports car racing|the road going sports car launched in 2008|Audi R8}}
{{About|the 1999–2006 race car used in sports car racing|the 2006–2024 road-going sports car|Audi R8}}
{{Refimprove|date=July 2007}}
{{More citations needed|date=July 2007}}
{{Racing car
{{Racing car
|Car_name=Audi R8
|Car_name=Audi R8
|Image=[[Image:McNish-ALMS-LRP-2006.jpg|250px|An Audi R8 in its final race.]]
|Image= File:2000 Audi R8 LMP1 Front.jpg
|Category=[[Le Mans Prototype]]
|Category=[[Le Mans Prototype]]
|Constructor=[[Audi]]
|Constructor=[[Audi]]
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|Designer=[[Michael Pfadenhauer]] (aerodynamics)<br/>[[Wolfgang Appel]] (chassis)<br/>[[Ulrich Baretzky]] (engine)
|Designer=[[Michael Pfadenhauer]] (aerodynamics)<br/>[[Wolfgang Appel]] (chassis)<br/>[[Ulrich Baretzky]] (engine)
|Team= {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Arena Motorsport|Audi Sport UK]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} Audi Sport UK Team Veloqx<br/>{{flagicon|JPN}} [[Team Goh|Audi Sport Japan Team Goh]]<br/>{{flagicon|USA}} [[Champion Racing]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stefan Johansson|Johansson]] Motorsport<br/>{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Oreca|Audi PlayStation Team Oreca]]
|Team= {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Arena Motorsport|Audi Sport UK]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} Audi Sport UK Team Veloqx<br/>{{flagicon|JPN}} [[Team Goh|Audi Sport Japan Team Goh]]<br/>{{flagicon|USA}} [[Champion Racing]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stefan Johansson|Johansson]] Motorsport<br/>{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Oreca|Audi PlayStation Team Oreca]]
|Drivers= {{flagicon|DEN}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br/>{{flagicon|GER}} [[Marco Werner]]<br/>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Rinaldo Capello]]
|Drivers= {{flagicon|DEN}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br/>{{flagicon|GER}} [[Marco Werner]]<br/>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Rinaldo Capello]]<br/>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Michele Alboreto]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Allan McNish]]<br/>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]<br/>{{flagicon|GER}} [[Frank Biela]]<br/>{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Laurent Aïello]]<br/>{{flagicon|MON}} [[Stéphane Ortelli]]<br/>{{flagicon|SWE}} [[Stefan Johansson]]<br/>{{flagicon|FIN}} [[JJ Lehto]]<br/>{{flagicon|GBR}} [[Johnny Herbert]]
|Chassis=[[Carbon fiber]] and [[aluminum]] honeycomb [[monocoque]]
|Chassis=[[Carbon fiber]] and [[aluminum]] honeycomb [[monocoque]]
|Front suspension=[[Independent suspension|Independent]] [[Double wishbone suspension|double wishbone]] pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled [[shock absorbers]]
|Front suspension=[[Independent suspension|Independent]] [[Double wishbone suspension|double wishbone]] pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled [[shock absorbers]]
|Rear suspension=[[Independent suspension|Independent]] [[Double wishbone suspension|double wishbone]] pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled [[shock absorbers]]
|Rear suspension=[[Independent suspension|Independent]] [[Double wishbone suspension|double wishbone]] pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled [[shock absorbers]]
|Engine name=[[Audi]]
|Engine name=[[Audi]]
|Capacity=3.6 liter
|Capacity=[[Audi/Bentley 90° twin-turbocharged V8 racing engine|3.6 liter]]
|Configuration=90-degree [[V8 engine|V8]]
|Configuration=[[Audi/Bentley 90° twin-turbocharged V8 racing engine|90-degree]] [[V8 engine|V8]]
|Turbo/NA=[[twin-turbo]],
|Turbo/NA=[[twin-turbo]],
|Engine position=[[mid-engine]], [[longitudinal engine|longitudinally mounted]]
|Engine position=[[mid-engine]], [[longitudinal engine|longitudinally mounted]]
|Gearbox name=[[Ricardo plc|Ricardo]]
|Gearbox name=[[Ricardo plc|Ricardo]]
|Gears=6-speed
|Gears=6-speed
|Type=[[sequential manual gearbox|sequential manual]]
|Type=[[sequential manual gearbox|electro-pneumatic actuated sequential manual]]
|Differential=Multiple-disc [[limited-slip differential]]
|Differential=Multiple-disc [[limited-slip differential]]
|Tyres=[[Michelin]]
|Tyres=[[Michelin]]
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}}
}}
{{Listen|filename=Audi R8 (2000).ogg|title=2000 Audi R8|description=Audi R8 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009}}
{{Listen|filename=Audi R8 (2000).ogg|title=2000 Audi R8|description=Audi R8 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009}}
[[Image:1 and 2 Audi R8.jpg|thumb|The #1 & #2 Audi R8 LMP1 cars racing in the [[2005 Grand Prix of Atlanta]].]]
[[Image:1 and 2 Audi R8.jpg|thumb|The #1 & #2 Audi R8 LMP1 cars racing in the [[2005 Grand Prix of Atlanta]]]]
The '''Audi R8''' is a [[Le Mans Prototype]] sports-prototype race car introduced in 2000 for [[sports car racing]] as a redevelopment of their [[Audi R8R]] (open top [[Le Mans Prototype|LMP]]) and [[Audi R8C]] (closed top [[Le Mans Prototype|LMGTP]]) used in 1999. In its class it is one of the most successful racing [[sports car]]s having won the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] race in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005, five of the six years it competed in total. Its streak of Le Mans victories between 2000 and 2005 was broken only in 2003 by the [[Bentley Speed 8]].<ref>{{cite web
The '''Audi R8''' is a [[Le Mans Prototype]] sports-prototype race car introduced in 2000 for [[sports car racing]] as a redevelopment of their [[Audi R8R]] (open-top [[Le Mans Prototype|LMP]]) and [[Audi R8C]] (closed-top LMGTP) used in 1999. In its class, it is one of the most successful racing [[sports car]]s having won the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] race in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005, five of the six years it competed in total. Its streak of Le Mans victories between 2000 and 2005 was broken only in 2003 by the [[Bentley Speed 8]], another race car fielded that year by [[Volkswagen Group]].<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.les24heures.fr/index.php/database/palmaresdes24hdumans
|url=http://www.les24heures.fr/index.php/database/palmaresdes24hdumans
|title=Les24Heures
|title=Les24Heures
|author=
|date=
|work=
|publisher=
|accessdate=
}}</ref>
}}</ref>


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===1998: The challenge===
===1998: The challenge===
In 1997, [[sports car racing]] and especially the [[Le Mans 24 Hours]] was popular among factories like [[BMW]], [[Mercedes-Benz]], [[Porsche]], [[Toyota]], [[Nissan Motors]] and others. At that time, Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich started to evaluate the options of joining.
In 1997, sports car racing and especially the Le Mans 24 Hours was popular among factories such as [[BMW]], [[Mercedes-Benz]], [[Porsche]], [[Toyota]], [[Nissan Motors]], and others. At that time, Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich started to evaluate the options of joining.


With the upcoming [[American Le Mans Series]] also providing a stage for the US-market, Audi announced plans in 1998 to compete in 1999, with the [[Audi R8R|R8R]] and powered by a {{Convert|550|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} V8 turbo. As it was considered the better choice for a whole race due to less weight and wider tires, Audi ordered an open top roadster from [[Dallara]], to be developed and run by [[Joest Racing]].
With the upcoming [[American Le Mans Series]] also providing a stage for the US market, Audi announced plans in 1998 to compete in 1999, with the Audi R8R powered by a {{Convert|550|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} V8 turbo. As it was considered the better choice for a whole race due to less weight and wider tires, Audi ordered an open-top roadster from [[Dallara]] to be developed and run by [[Joest Racing]].


Yet, during the autumn of 1998, after the necessity of GT1 homologation was dropped in favour of LM-GTP prototypes, regarding the speed and success of these closed GT coupés like the [[Porsche 911 GT1]], [[Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR]], and the [[Toyota GT-One]], Audi also ordered their newly acquired Norfolk based RTN (Racing Technology Norfolk, led by [[Tony Southgate]]) to build a closed-cockpit car using the same drivetrain.
Yet, during the autumn of 1998, after the necessity of GT1 homologation was dropped in favour of LM-GTP prototypes, closed GT coupés like the [[Porsche 911 GT1]], [[Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR]], and the [[Toyota GT-One]] proved successful. In response, Audi also ordered their newly acquired Norfolk-based Racing Technology Norfolk, led by [[Tony Southgate]], to build a closed-cockpit car using the same drivetrain.


The ACO rules for closed-top prototypes allowed cars to run with larger air restrictors, resulting in more power (about 600&nbsp;hp), which resulted in a higher top speed in combination with the lower drag. To compensate this advantage over the duration of a race, the LMGTPs were limited to smaller tyres and smaller fuel tanks.
The ACO rules for closed-top prototypes allowed cars to run with larger air restrictors, resulting in more power (about 600&nbsp;hp), which resulted in a higher top speed in combination with the lower drag. To compensate this advantage over the duration of a race, the LMGTPs were limited to smaller tyres and smaller fuel tanks.
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===1999: The R8R and R8C===
===1999: The R8R and R8C===
{{Main|Audi R8R|Audi R8C}}
{{Main|Audi R8R|Audi R8C}}
Following a period of testing, two R8Rs debut at the 1999 [[12 Hours of Sebring]]. The [[BMW V12 LMR]] won, which was a strong sign towards the race in France. The already tested open-top Audi R8R, entered by [[Joest Racing]] was not fast enough to challenge for a win, finishing 3rd.
Following a period of testing, two R8Rs debuted at the 1999 [[12 Hours of Sebring]]. The [[BMW V12 LMR]] won, which was a strong sign towards the race in France. The already tested open-top Audi R8R, entered by Joest Racing, was not fast enough to challenge for a win, finishing third.


After further tests and modifications, the Audis returned for Le Mans. The new debuting R8Cs lacked pace and unfortunately suffered mechanical gearbox woes. Lap times were 10 seconds down from the leading LMP and LMGTP competitors. Joest's R8Rs ran steady, yet still was too slow to run for pole position. After a race which saw the spectacular flights of the [[Mercedes-Benz CLR]] as well as leading cars of Toyota and BMW crashing out, the Audi R8R took 3rd and 4th behind the surviving #15 [[BMW V12 LMR]] and the Japanese-driven Toyota.
After further tests and modifications, the Audis returned for Le Mans. The new debuting R8Cs lacked pace and unfortunately suffered mechanical gearbox woes. Lap times were 10 seconds down from the leading LMP and LMGTP competitors. Joest's R8Rs ran steady, yet still were too slow to run for pole position. After a race that had the spectacular flights of the [[Mercedes-Benz CLR]] and leading cars of Toyota and BMW crashing out, the Audi R8Rs took third and fourth behind the surviving #15 [[BMW V12 LMR]] and the Japanese-driven Toyota.


Based on the experiences, Audi decided to regroup for 2000, and built a new R8 [[Roadster (automobile)|spyder]] together with Joest and Dallara. The British-built R8C coupe was retired, but Audi-owned [[Bentley]] developed the concept of the R8C closed cockpit LMGTP and entered the [[Bentley Speed 8|Bentley EXP Speed 8]] in 2001, winning the race with the [[Bentley Speed 8]] in the 2003.
Based on the experiences, Audi decided to regroup for 2000, and built a new R8 [[Roadster (automobile)|spyder]] together with Joest and Dallara. The British-built R8C coupe was retired, but Audi-owned [[Bentley]] developed the concept of the R8C closed-cockpit LMGTP and entered the [[Bentley Speed 8|Bentley EXP Speed 8]] in 2001, winning the race with the [[Bentley Speed 8]] in 2003.


===1999: Retiring competitors===
===1999: Retiring competitors===
After the 1999 Le Mans shame, Mercedes retired from GTs to focus on the return of the [[Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters|DTM]] touring cars in 2000, as well as on F1. Toyota and BMW also went to F1, with BMW at least continuing to race for two years in the [[ALMS]], where the open roadster of [[Bill Auberlen]] also suffered a "back flip" during the [[Petit Le Mans]] at [[Road Atlanta]] in 2000, as the closed-cockpit Porsche of [[Yannick Dalmas]] had done in 1998. Despite the BMW V12 LMR not receiving further development, the German team [[Schnitzer Motorsport]] was almost as effective as Joest. Still the BMW V12 LMR could not match the Audi R8's might in the championship and lost almost every race against it. BMW returned to race the [[BMW M3]] in the GT class since, dominating in the ALMS and in [[World Touring Car Championship|WTCC]] as well as at the [[24 Hours Nürburgring]].
After the 1999 Le Mans shame, Mercedes retired from GTs to focus on the return of the [[Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters|DTM]] touring cars in 2000, as well as on F1. Toyota and BMW also went to F1, with BMW at least continuing to race for two years in the [[ALMS]], where the open roadster of [[Bill Auberlen]] also suffered a "back flip" during the [[Petit Le Mans]] at [[Road Atlanta]] in 2000, as the closed-cockpit Porsche of [[Yannick Dalmas]] had done in 1998. Despite the BMW V12 LMR not receiving further development, the German team [[Schnitzer Motorsport]] was almost as effective as Joest. Still, the BMW V12 LMR could not match the Audi R8's might in the championship and lost almost every race against it. BMW quit the top class to race the [[BMW M3]] in the GT class since, dominating in the ALMS and in [[World Touring Car Championship|WTCC]], as well as at the [[24 Hours Nürburgring]].


This left only Porsche as a major possible challenger for 2000 — however the [[Porsche LMP]] project was scrapped before it had a chance to race. Rumours at that time said that [[Ferdinand Piech]] himself made them stay away, using his influence as a co-owner of Porsche as well as his management role at [[Volkswagen]], which would develop the upcoming SUV [[VW Touareg]] in cooperation with the [[Porsche Cayenne]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Michael J. Fuller |url=http://www.mulsannescorner.com/porschelmp1.html |title=Mulsanne's Corner: 1999-2000 Porsche LMP1 |publisher=Mulsannescorner.com |date= |accessdate=2010-10-11}}</ref> The Porsche V10 racer was turned into the [[Porsche Carrera GT]] instead.
This left only Porsche as a major possible challenger for 2000; however, the [[Porsche LMP]] project was scrapped before it had a chance to race. Rumours at that time said that [[Ferdinand Piech]] himself made them stay away, using his influence as a co-owner of Porsche, as well as his management role at [[Volkswagen]], which would develop the upcoming SUV [[VW Touareg]] in cooperation with the [[Porsche Cayenne]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Michael J. Fuller |url=http://www.mulsannescorner.com/porschelmp1.html |title=Mulsanne's Corner: 1999-2000 Porsche LMP1 |publisher=Mulsannescorner.com |access-date=2010-10-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407182942/http://www.mulsannescorner.com/porschelmp1.html |archive-date=2014-04-07 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Porsche V10 racer was turned into the [[Porsche Carrera GT]] instead.


===2000: The R8===
===2000: The R8===
{{stack begin}}
{{stack begin}}
[[Image:2000 Audi R8 Goodwood, 2009.JPG|thumb|340px|right|This R8, in a special crocodile livery, won the [[Race of a Thousand Years]] in Adelaide, Australia, in 2000 driven by [[Allan McNish]] and [[Rinaldo Capello]].]]
[[Image:2000 Audi R8 Goodwood, 2009.JPG|thumb|340px|right|This R8, in a special crocodile livery, won the [[Race of a Thousand Years]] in Adelaide, Australia, in 2000 driven by [[Allan McNish]] and [[Rinaldo Capello]].]]
[[Image:Cd13-0601g.png|thumb|340px|right|Audi R8 2001.]]
[[Image:Cd13-0601g.png|thumb|340px|right|Audi R8 2001]]
{{stack end}}
{{stack end}}
⚫
The Audi R8 is a sports-[[racing car]] prepared for the [[Le Mans Prototype|LMP900]] class at Le Mans and in the [[American Le Mans Series]]. The car was developed by Audi Motorsport and Joest Racing, and debuted in 2000, winning the 12 Hours of Sebring.
{{Tone|date=June 2010}}
⚫
The Audi R8 is a sports-[[racing car]] prepared for the [[Le Mans Prototype|LMP900]] class at Le Mans and in the [[American Le Mans Series]]. The car was developed by [[Audi|Audi Motorsport]] and [[Joest Racing]] and debuted in 2000, winning the [[12 Hours of Sebring]].


The R8 won Le Mans five times ([[2000 24 Hours of Le Mans|2000]], [[2001 24 Hours of Le Mans|2001]], [[2002 24 Hours of Le Mans|2002]], [[2004 24 Hours of Le Mans|2004]] and [[2005 24 Hours of Le Mans|2005]]) and the overall season championship in the American Le Mans Series six times in a row (from 2000 to 2005).<ref name=r&t201208>{{cite journal|last=Bornhop|first=Andrew|title=Ode to an R8|journal=[[Road & Track]]|date=August 2012|volume=63|issue=12|page=61}}</ref>
The R8 won Le Mans five times ([[2000 24 Hours of Le Mans|2000]], [[2001 24 Hours of Le Mans|2001]], [[2002 24 Hours of Le Mans|2002]], [[2004 24 Hours of Le Mans|2004]], and [[2005 24 Hours of Le Mans|2005]]) and the overall season championship in the American Le Mans Series six times in a row (from 2000 to 2005).<ref name=r&t201208>{{cite journal|last=Bornhop|first=Andrew|title=Ode to an R8|journal=[[Road & Track]]|date=August 2012|volume=63|issue=12|page=61}}</ref>


The R8 won a hat trick at Le Mans in 2000-2002, campaigned by Audi Sport [[Infineon]] Team Joest and driven by [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]], [[Emanuele Pirro]] and [[Frank Biela]]. First time out in 2000, the team won a 1-2-3 finish. Since then, the Audi R8 has won numerous championships and races, including further wins for 'privateer' teams at Le Mans in 2004 and 2005.
The R8 won a hat trick at Le Mans in 2000–2002, campaigned by Audi Sport [[Infineon]] Team Joest and driven by [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]], [[Emanuele Pirro]], and [[Frank Biela]]. First time out in 2000, the team won a 1-2-3 finish. Since then, the Audi R8 has won numerous championships and races, including further wins for "privateer" teams at Le Mans in 2004 and 2005.


The R8 is powered by a 3.6&nbsp;L Audi [[Fuel Stratified Injection|FSI]] V8. FSI stands for Fuel-Stratified Injection, which is a variation on the concept of [[gasoline direct injection]] developed by VW which maximizes both power and fuel economy at the same time. FSI technology can be found in products available to the normal public, across all brands in the [[Volkswagen Group]].
The R8 is powered by a 3.6 L Audi V8 with [[Fuel Stratified Injection]] (FSI), which is a variation on the concept of [[gasoline direct injection]] developed by VW; it maximizes both power and fuel economy at the same time. FSI technology can be found in products available to the public, across all brands in the [[Volkswagen Group]].


The power supplied by the R8, officially listed at about {{Convert|610|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} in 2000, 2001 and 2002, {{Convert|550|hp|kW|1|abbr=on}} in 2003 and 2004 and {{Convert|520|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} in 2005, is sent to the rear wheels via a [[Ricardo plc|Ricardo]] six-speed [[Sequential manual transmission|sequential transmission]] with an electro–pneumatic gear change. Unofficially, the works-team Audi R8 for Le Mans (2000, 2001 and 2002) is said to have had around {{Convert|670|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} instead of the quoted {{Convert|610|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. The numbers were quoted at speed, and were due to the car making 50 extra horsepower due to twin ram-air intakes at speeds over {{convert|150|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}. Official torque numbers were quoted for this version of the engine at {{Convert|516|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} at 6500 rpm. The equation for horsepower (torque divided by 5250, multiplied by rpm) for these numbers produces a horsepower rating of {{convert|638|hp}} at the same 6500 rpm (516/5250*6500=638). The Audi R8's structure was designed from the very beginning to expedite parts changes during the race. The car has a chassis that has been likened to a [[Lego]] model — anything on the car can be changed and changed quickly. During its campaign, the Joest pit crew was able to change the entire rear transaxle of a damaged R8 — a process which usually takes between one and three hours — in as low as three minutes and 16 seconds.<ref name=r&t201208/> The reason for this was that the transmission, rear suspension and rear subframe were built as one unit. The car had numerous quick-connect hoses and easily removable bolts. The whole rear section of the car could be removed as a whole and a new back half installed with the help of a crane. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), organizers of the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] and the [[American Le Mans Series]] acted quickly to void this advantage by mandating the gearbox casing be the same item through the duration of the race, with only the internals being allowed to be changed. However, the R8 still had quicker access to the gearbox internals than any other car due to its quick-change construction . This was critical as the gearbox was the weak link in the car.
The power supplied by the R8, officially listed at about {{Convert|610|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} in 2000, 2001, and 2002, {{Convert|550|hp|kW|1|abbr=on}} in 2003 and 2004, and {{Convert|520|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} in 2005, is sent to the rear wheels via a [[Ricardo plc|Ricardo]] six-speed [[Sequential manual transmission|sequential transmission]] with an electropneumatic paddle shift. Unofficially, the works team Audi R8 for Le Mans (2000, 2001, and 2002) is said to have had around {{Convert|670|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} instead of the quoted 610 hp. The numbers were quoted at speed, and were due to the car making 50 extra horsepower due to twin ram-air intakes at speeds over {{convert|150|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}. Official torque numbers were quoted for this version of the engine at {{Convert|516|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} at 6500 rpm. The equation for horsepower (torque divided by 5250, multiplied by rpm) for these numbers produces a horsepower rating of {{convert|638|hp}} at the same 6500 rpm (516/5250*6500=638). The Audi R8's structure was designed from the beginning to expedite parts changes during the race. The car's chassis has been likened to a [[Lego]] model — anything on the car can be changed and changed quickly. During its campaign, the Joest pit crew was able to change the entire rear transaxle of a damaged R8 — a process which usually takes between one and three hours — in as low as three minutes and 16 seconds.<ref name=r&t201208/> The reason for this was that the transmission, rear suspension, and rear subframe were built as one unit. The car had numerous quick-connect hoses and easily removable bolts. The whole rear section of the car could be removed as a whole and a new back half installed with the help of a crane. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), organizers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series, acted quickly to void this advantage by mandating the gearbox casing be the same item through the duration of the race, with only the internals being allowed to be changed. However, the R8 still had quicker access to the gearbox internals than any other car due to its quick-change construction . This was critical as the gearbox was the weak link in the car.


The R8's structure and body are both composed of [[carbon fibre]], a strong, lightweight polymer material.
The R8's structure and body are both composed of carbon fibre, a strong, lightweight polymer material.


Performance - from top speed to acceleration - was, as in most race car cases, variable depending on the car's setup. The highest speed of the R8 at Le Mans was {{convert|338|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in the practice sessions of the 2002 Le Mans 24 Hours Race. A low downforce setup could generate about {{convert|350|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}.
Performance from top speed to acceleration was, as in most race car cases, variable depending on the car's setup. The highest speed of the R8 at Le Mans was {{convert|338|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in the practice sessions of the 2002 Le Mans 24 Hours Race. A low downforce setup could reach about {{convert|350|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}.


Audi Sport's program saw tragedy in 2001 when on April 25, popular ex-F1 driver [[Michele Alboreto]] died in an accident after suffering a high-speed tyre failure during an R8 test session at the [[Lausitzring]] in eastern Germany.<ref name=nytimes>''Alboreto Is Killed Testing Audi R8'', [[New York Times]], April 26, 2001, Page D7.</ref>
Audi Sport's program saw tragedy in 2001 when on April 25, popular ex-F1 driver [[Michele Alboreto]] died in an accident after suffering a high-speed tyre failure during an R8 test session at the [[Lausitzring]] in eastern Germany.<ref name=nytimes>''Alboreto Is Killed Testing Audi R8'', ''[[The New York Times]]'', April 26, 2001, Page D7.</ref>


===2003: Bentley breaks the streak===
===2003: Bentley breaks the streak===
The [[Bentley Speed 8]], which ran at Le Mans from 2001 to 2003, winning in 2003, utilised a heavily modified 4.0&nbsp;L version of the V8 engine from the Audi R8 .{{Citation needed|date=June 2008}}
The [[Bentley Speed 8]], which was somewhat based on the R8 ran at Le Mans from 2001 to 2003, winning in 2003, used a heavily modified 4.0-L version of the V8 engine from the Audi R8 .{{Citation needed|date=June 2008}}
The Bentley racing effort was campaigned by Team [[Bentley]] (Apex Motorsport) with assistance from longtime R8 competitor Joest Racing and Audi Sport UK. After 2002 the Joest factory team dropped its R8 campaign and left it to the privateers. Restrictor changes brought the power down to 550&nbsp;bhp for anyone still racing with the R8. However the maximum torque hardly changed.
The Bentley racing effort was campaigned by Team [[Bentley]] (Apex Motorsport) with assistance from longtime R8 competitor Joest Racing and Audi Sport UK. After 2002, the Joest factory team dropped its R8 campaign and left it to the privateers. Restrictor changes brought the power down to 550&nbsp;bhp for anyone still racing with the R8, but the maximum torque hardly changed.
[[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]], who won the previous three 24 Hours of Le Mans races in an R8, was assigned to drive the Bentley Speed 8, and helped guide the team to victory. (Kristensen went on to win the 2004 and 2005 races in an Audi R8). There is some similarity between the Bentley Speed 8 and the Audi R8's successor, the R10 TDI.
[[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]], who won the previous three 24 Hours of Le Mans races in an R8, was assigned to drive the Bentley Speed 8, and helped guide the team to victory. (Kristensen went on to win the 2004 and 2005 races in an Audi R8). Some similarity exists between the Bentley Speed 8 and the Audi R8's successor, the R10 TDI.


===2005: End of active Competition===
===2005: End of active competition===
During the 2005 season, it was evident that its time at the front of the pack was drawing to a close. Audi had made the development of the [[Audi R10 TDI]] diesel public, and cars from other manufacturers and teams started to catch up in terms of on-the-track speed. The ACO still felt that the R8 needed to be kept in check, therefore they reduced the restrictor size on the R8's engine, due to the car not meeting new hybrid regulations, and stipulated the car shall carry [[ballast weight]] in an attempt to make the races more competitive. The R8 was restricted even further to only 520&nbsp;bhp. At the 2005 Le Mans, the Audis failed to qualify on pole position; the fastest R8 started the race in third position. However, the car was able to outlast all other competitors to eventually take its fifth checkered flag at the Circuit de la Sarthe and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This victory was also notable since it was Tom Kristensen's 6th straight 24 Hours of Le Mans victory, and a record 7th overall, beating legendary driver [[Jacky Ickx]]'s previous record of 6 career 24 Hours of Le Mans victories. To date the R8 remains one of the fastest petrol powered LMPs, setting a 3:29 at Le Mans, which was beaten only by the Lola-Aston Martins. However, the R8's best finish was at 379 laps, which is more than the Lola-Aston Martin's best at 373 laps.
During the 2005 season, its time at the front of the pack evidently was drawing to a close. Audi had made the development of the [[Audi R10 TDI]] diesel public, and cars from other manufacturers and teams started to catch up in terms of on-the-track speed. The ACO still felt that the R8 needed to be kept in check, so they reduced the restrictor size on the R8's engine, due to the car not meeting new hybrid regulations, and stipulated the car shall carry [[ballast weight]] in an attempt to make the races more competitive. The R8 was restricted even further to only 520&nbsp;bhp. At the 2005 Le Mans, the Audis failed to qualify on pole position; the fastest R8 started the race in third position. However, the car was able to outlast all other competitors to eventually take its fifth checkered flag at the Circuit de la Sarthe and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This victory was also notable since it was Tom Kristensen's sixth straight 24 Hours of Le Mans victory, and a record seventh overall, beating legendary driver [[Jacky Ickx]]'s previous record of six career 24 Hours of Le Mans victories. To date, the R8 remains one of the fastest petrol-powered LMPs, setting a 3:29 at Le Mans, which was beaten only by the Lola-Aston Martins. However, the R8's best finish was at 379 laps, which is more than the Lola-Aston Martin's best at 373 laps.


⚫
==List of records==
===2010: Classic car racing===
Two 2005 Audi R8's are driven by Doug Smith and [[Travis Engen]] in the GTP-WSC Enduro class of the [[Historic Sportscar Racing|HSR]] championship.

⚫
==List of Records==


* [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] winner - {{24hLM|2000}}, {{24hLM|2001}}, {{24hLM|2002}}, {{24hLM|2004}}, {{24hLM|2005}}
* [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] winner - {{24hLM|2000}}, {{24hLM|2001}}, {{24hLM|2002}}, {{24hLM|2004}}, {{24hLM|2005}}
Line 110: Line 102:
* [[2001 European Le Mans Series season|European Le Mans Series]] champion: [[2001 European Le Mans Series season|2001]]
* [[2001 European Le Mans Series season|European Le Mans Series]] champion: [[2001 European Le Mans Series season|2001]]
* [[Le Mans Series]] champion: [[2004 Le Mans Series season|2004]]
* [[Le Mans Series]] champion: [[2004 Le Mans Series season|2004]]
† - Season partially run by the [[Audi R10]] as well.
† - Season partially run by the [[Audi R10]]


==Legacy==
==Legacy==
Line 116: Line 108:
===2006: The R10 TDI===
===2006: The R10 TDI===
{{Main|Audi R10 TDI}}
{{Main|Audi R10 TDI}}
In response to the new level of competition, development of the successor, known as the [[Audi R10 TDI]], has been completed. The [[V12 engine]]d [[turbodiesel]] won at its race debut at the 2006 [[12 Hours of Sebring]] with both cars starting on the front row. However, the pole sitting R10 had to start from the pit lane due to the need to rectify heat exchanger issues.
In response to the new level of competition, Audi developed a successor known as the [[Audi R10 TDI]]. The [[V12 engine]]d [[turbodiesel]] won at its race debut at the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring with both cars starting on the front row. However, the pole-sitting R10 had to start from the pit lane due to the need to rectify heat exchanger issues.


Emanuele Pirro, Frank Biela and Marco Werner made history by becoming the first drivers to win the Le Mans 24-hour race in a diesel-powered car. The Audi R10 TDI completed a record 380 laps of the La Sarthe circuit, with Pirro at the wheel for the finish. French trio [[Sébastien Loeb]], [[Éric Hélary]] and [[Franck Montagny]] took second in the [[Pescarolo Sport|Pescarolo]] Judd No 17, four laps adrift. Scotsman [[Allan McNish]] was third in the other Audi, which came in 13 laps down after suffering mechanical problems.
Emanuele Pirro, Frank Biela, and Marco Werner made history by becoming the first drivers to win the Le Mans 24-hour race in a diesel-powered car. The Audi R10 TDI completed a record 380 laps of the La Sarthe circuit, with Pirro at the wheel for the finish. French trio [[Sébastien Loeb]], [[Éric Hélary]], and [[Franck Montagny]] took second in the [[Pescarolo Sport|Pescarolo]] Judd No 17, four laps back. Scotsman [[Allan McNish]] was third in the other Audi, which came in 13 laps down after suffering mechanical problems.
[[Image:Paris 2006 - Audi R8.JPG|right|thumb|Audi R8 road car at the 2006 Paris Motor Show]]
[[Image:Paris 2006 - Audi R8.JPG|right|thumb|Audi R8 road car at the 2006 Paris Motor Show]]
The R8 continued to campaign the [[American Le Mans Series]] through the first half of the 2006 season, and made its final US appearance on July 1, 2006 at [[Lime Rock Park]], [[Connecticut]], piloted by McNish and Capello. The R8 ended its career in style by winning the race, the 50th [[American Le Mans Series]] win for the Audi R8. The R10s participated in the rest of the ALMS season, beginning with the race at [[Miller Motorsports Park]], [[Utah]].
The R8 continued to campaign the American Le Mans Series through the first half of the 2006 season, and made its final US appearance on July 1, 2006, at [[Lime Rock Park]], [[Connecticut]], piloted by McNish and Capello. The R8 ended its career in style by winning the race, marking the 50th American Le Mans Series victory for the Audi R8. The R10s participated in the rest of the ALMS season, beginning with the race at [[Miller Motorsports Park]], [[Utah]].


===2007: R8 road car===
===2007: R8 road car===
The name Audi R8 also is used by the production road [[sports car]] [[Audi R8 (road car)|Audi R8]] which is based on the 2003 [[Audi Le Mans quattro]] [[concept car]], and the R8 race car experiences. Production started in 2007.
The name Audi R8 also is used by the production road [[sports car]] [[Audi R8]], which is based on the 2003 [[Audi Le Mans quattro]] [[concept car]]. Production started in 2007.


==24 Hours of Le Mans results==
==24 Hours of Le Mans results==
Line 147: Line 139:
|- align="center"
|- align="center"
| 8
| 8
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
Line 163: Line 155:
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]
| 1
| 1
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
Line 196: Line 188:
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Joest Racing|Audi Sport Team Joest]]
| 1
| 1
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|DEU}} [[Frank Biela]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Emanuele Pirro]]
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''yes''
| ''yes''
Line 262: Line 254:
|align="left"| {{flagicon|JPN}} [[Team Goh|Audi Sport Japan Team Goh]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|JPN}} [[Team Goh|Audi Sport Japan Team Goh]]
| 5
| 5
|align="left"| {{flagicon|JPN}} [[Seiji Ara]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Rinaldo Capello]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|JPN}} [[Seiji Ara]]<br>{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Rinaldo Capello]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
Line 293: Line 285:
|- align="center"
|- align="center"
| 3
| 3
|align="left"| {{flagicon|FIN}} [[JJ Lehto]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|DEU}} [[Marco Werner]]
|align="left"| {{flagicon|FIN}} [[JJ Lehto]]<br>{{flagicon|DNK}} [[Tom Kristensen (racing driver)|Tom Kristensen]]<br>{{flagicon|DEU}} [[Marco Werner]]
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
| ''no''
Line 312: Line 304:


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|Audi R8 (LMP)}}
{{Commons category|Audi R8 (sports prototype)}}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120306115926/http://dossiers.endurance-series.com/?p=237 Audi R8 serial number on Endurance-Series]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120306115926/http://dossiers.endurance-series.com/?p=237 Audi R8 serial number on Endurance-Series]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8c.htm Audi R8C (1999)]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120510101247/http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8c.htm Audi R8C (1999)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8r-99.html Audi R8R (1999)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8r-99.html Audi R8R (1999)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8.htm Debut Audi R8 (2000)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8.htm Debut Audi R8 (2000)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8-01.html Audi R8 (2001-2005)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir8-01.html Audi R8 (2001-2005)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir10.html Audi R10 (2006)]
*[http://www.mulsannescorner.com/audir10.html Audi R10 (2006)]
*[https://kiekebusch.com/de/automobilkunst/audi-at-le-mans-2002-detail]


{{Audi}}
{{Audi}}

Latest revision as of 15:53, 22 August 2024

This article is about the 1999–2006 race car used in sports car racing. For the 2006–2024 road-going sports car, see Audi R8.
Audi R8
CategoryLe Mans Prototype
ConstructorAudi
Designer(s)Michael Pfadenhauer (aerodynamics)
Wolfgang Appel (chassis)
Ulrich Baretzky (engine)
PredecessorAudi R8R
SuccessorAudi R10 TDI
Technical specifications
ChassisCarbon fiber and aluminum honeycomb monocoque
Suspension (front)Independent double wishbone pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled shock absorbers
Suspension (rear)Independent double wishbone pushrod system with horizontal spring/damper unit, adjustable gas-filled shock absorbers
EngineAudi 3.6 liter 90-degree V8 twin-turbo, mid-engine, longitudinally mounted
TransmissionRicardo 6-speed electro-pneumatic actuated sequential manual Multiple-disc limited-slip differential
FuelShell
TyresMichelin
Competition history
Notable entrantsGermany Audi Sport Team Joest
United Kingdom Audi Sport UK
United Kingdom Audi Sport UK Team Veloqx
Japan Audi Sport Japan Team Goh
United States Champion Racing
United Kingdom Johansson Motorsport
France Audi PlayStation Team Oreca
Notable driversDenmark Tom Kristensen
Germany Marco Werner
Italy Rinaldo Capello
Italy Michele Alboreto
United Kingdom Allan McNish
Italy Emanuele Pirro
Germany Frank Biela
France Laurent Aïello
Monaco Stéphane Ortelli
Sweden Stefan Johansson
Finland JJ Lehto
United Kingdom Johnny Herbert
Debut2000 12 Hours of Sebring
RacesWinsPoles
796347
2000 Audi R8
Audi R8 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009
Problems playing this file? See media help.
The #1 & #2 Audi R8 LMP1 cars racing in the 2005 Grand Prix of Atlanta

The Audi R8 is a Le Mans Prototype sports-prototype race car introduced in 2000 for sports car racing as a redevelopment of their Audi R8R (open-top LMP) and Audi R8C (closed-top LMGTP) used in 1999. In its class, it is one of the most successful racing sports cars having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005, five of the six years it competed in total. Its streak of Le Mans victories between 2000 and 2005 was broken only in 2003 by the Bentley Speed 8, another race car fielded that year by Volkswagen Group.[1]

The petrol-powered Audi R8 race car was in 2006 replaced by the new Audi R10 TDI Diesel; however, the need to further develop the R10 meant that the R8 saw action in a few races leading up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

History

[edit]

1998: The challenge

[edit]

In 1997, sports car racing and especially the Le Mans 24 Hours was popular among factories such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota, Nissan Motors, and others. At that time, Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich started to evaluate the options of joining.

With the upcoming American Le Mans Series also providing a stage for the US market, Audi announced plans in 1998 to compete in 1999, with the Audi R8R powered by a 550 hp (410 kW) V8 turbo. As it was considered the better choice for a whole race due to less weight and wider tires, Audi ordered an open-top roadster from Dallara to be developed and run by Joest Racing.

Yet, during the autumn of 1998, after the necessity of GT1 homologation was dropped in favour of LM-GTP prototypes, closed GT coupés like the Porsche 911 GT1, Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR, and the Toyota GT-One proved successful. In response, Audi also ordered their newly acquired Norfolk-based Racing Technology Norfolk, led by Tony Southgate, to build a closed-cockpit car using the same drivetrain.

The ACO rules for closed-top prototypes allowed cars to run with larger air restrictors, resulting in more power (about 600 hp), which resulted in a higher top speed in combination with the lower drag. To compensate this advantage over the duration of a race, the LMGTPs were limited to smaller tyres and smaller fuel tanks.

1999: The R8R and R8C

[edit]
Main articles: Audi R8R and Audi R8C

Following a period of testing, two R8Rs debuted at the 1999 12 Hours of Sebring. The BMW V12 LMR won, which was a strong sign towards the race in France. The already tested open-top Audi R8R, entered by Joest Racing, was not fast enough to challenge for a win, finishing third.

After further tests and modifications, the Audis returned for Le Mans. The new debuting R8Cs lacked pace and unfortunately suffered mechanical gearbox woes. Lap times were 10 seconds down from the leading LMP and LMGTP competitors. Joest's R8Rs ran steady, yet still were too slow to run for pole position. After a race that had the spectacular flights of the Mercedes-Benz CLR and leading cars of Toyota and BMW crashing out, the Audi R8Rs took third and fourth behind the surviving #15 BMW V12 LMR and the Japanese-driven Toyota.

Based on the experiences, Audi decided to regroup for 2000, and built a new R8 spyder together with Joest and Dallara. The British-built R8C coupe was retired, but Audi-owned Bentley developed the concept of the R8C closed-cockpit LMGTP and entered the Bentley EXP Speed 8 in 2001, winning the race with the Bentley Speed 8 in 2003.

1999: Retiring competitors

[edit]

After the 1999 Le Mans shame, Mercedes retired from GTs to focus on the return of the DTM touring cars in 2000, as well as on F1. Toyota and BMW also went to F1, with BMW at least continuing to race for two years in the ALMS, where the open roadster of Bill Auberlen also suffered a "back flip" during the Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta in 2000, as the closed-cockpit Porsche of Yannick Dalmas had done in 1998. Despite the BMW V12 LMR not receiving further development, the German team Schnitzer Motorsport was almost as effective as Joest. Still, the BMW V12 LMR could not match the Audi R8's might in the championship and lost almost every race against it. BMW quit the top class to race the BMW M3 in the GT class since, dominating in the ALMS and in WTCC, as well as at the 24 Hours Nürburgring.

This left only Porsche as a major possible challenger for 2000; however, the Porsche LMP project was scrapped before it had a chance to race. Rumours at that time said that Ferdinand Piech himself made them stay away, using his influence as a co-owner of Porsche, as well as his management role at Volkswagen, which would develop the upcoming SUV VW Touareg in cooperation with the Porsche Cayenne.[2] The Porsche V10 racer was turned into the Porsche Carrera GT instead.

2000: The R8

[edit]
This R8, in a special crocodile livery, won the Race of a Thousand Years in Adelaide, Australia, in 2000 driven by Allan McNish and Rinaldo Capello.
Audi R8 2001

The Audi R8 is a sports-racing car prepared for the LMP900 class at Le Mans and in the American Le Mans Series. The car was developed by Audi Motorsport and Joest Racing, and debuted in 2000, winning the 12 Hours of Sebring.

The R8 won Le Mans five times (2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005) and the overall season championship in the American Le Mans Series six times in a row (from 2000 to 2005).[3]

The R8 won a hat trick at Le Mans in 2000–2002, campaigned by Audi Sport Infineon Team Joest and driven by Tom Kristensen, Emanuele Pirro, and Frank Biela. First time out in 2000, the team won a 1-2-3 finish. Since then, the Audi R8 has won numerous championships and races, including further wins for "privateer" teams at Le Mans in 2004 and 2005.

The R8 is powered by a 3.6 L Audi V8 with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), which is a variation on the concept of gasoline direct injection developed by VW; it maximizes both power and fuel economy at the same time. FSI technology can be found in products available to the public, across all brands in the Volkswagen Group.

The power supplied by the R8, officially listed at about 610 hp (455 kW) in 2000, 2001, and 2002, 550 hp (410.1 kW) in 2003 and 2004, and 520 hp (388 kW) in 2005, is sent to the rear wheels via a Ricardo six-speed sequential transmission with an electropneumatic paddle shift. Unofficially, the works team Audi R8 for Le Mans (2000, 2001, and 2002) is said to have had around 670 hp (500 kW) instead of the quoted 610 hp. The numbers were quoted at speed, and were due to the car making 50 extra horsepower due to twin ram-air intakes at speeds over 150 mph (240 km/h). Official torque numbers were quoted for this version of the engine at 516 lb⋅ft (700 N⋅m) at 6500 rpm. The equation for horsepower (torque divided by 5250, multiplied by rpm) for these numbers produces a horsepower rating of 638 horsepower (476 kW) at the same 6500 rpm (516/5250*6500=638). The Audi R8's structure was designed from the beginning to expedite parts changes during the race. The car's chassis has been likened to a Lego model — anything on the car can be changed and changed quickly. During its campaign, the Joest pit crew was able to change the entire rear transaxle of a damaged R8 — a process which usually takes between one and three hours — in as low as three minutes and 16 seconds.[3] The reason for this was that the transmission, rear suspension, and rear subframe were built as one unit. The car had numerous quick-connect hoses and easily removable bolts. The whole rear section of the car could be removed as a whole and a new back half installed with the help of a crane. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), organizers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series, acted quickly to void this advantage by mandating the gearbox casing be the same item through the duration of the race, with only the internals being allowed to be changed. However, the R8 still had quicker access to the gearbox internals than any other car due to its quick-change construction . This was critical as the gearbox was the weak link in the car.

The R8's structure and body are both composed of carbon fibre, a strong, lightweight polymer material.

Performance from top speed to acceleration was, as in most race car cases, variable depending on the car's setup. The highest speed of the R8 at Le Mans was 338 km/h (210 mph) in the practice sessions of the 2002 Le Mans 24 Hours Race. A low downforce setup could reach about 350 km/h (217 mph).

Audi Sport's program saw tragedy in 2001 when on April 25, popular ex-F1 driver Michele Alboreto died in an accident after suffering a high-speed tyre failure during an R8 test session at the Lausitzring in eastern Germany.[4]

2003: Bentley breaks the streak

[edit]

The Bentley Speed 8, which was somewhat based on the R8 ran at Le Mans from 2001 to 2003, winning in 2003, used a heavily modified 4.0-L version of the V8 engine from the Audi R8 .[citation needed] The Bentley racing effort was campaigned by Team Bentley (Apex Motorsport) with assistance from longtime R8 competitor Joest Racing and Audi Sport UK. After 2002, the Joest factory team dropped its R8 campaign and left it to the privateers. Restrictor changes brought the power down to 550 bhp for anyone still racing with the R8, but the maximum torque hardly changed. Tom Kristensen, who won the previous three 24 Hours of Le Mans races in an R8, was assigned to drive the Bentley Speed 8, and helped guide the team to victory. (Kristensen went on to win the 2004 and 2005 races in an Audi R8). Some similarity exists between the Bentley Speed 8 and the Audi R8's successor, the R10 TDI.

2005: End of active competition

[edit]

During the 2005 season, its time at the front of the pack evidently was drawing to a close. Audi had made the development of the Audi R10 TDI diesel public, and cars from other manufacturers and teams started to catch up in terms of on-the-track speed. The ACO still felt that the R8 needed to be kept in check, so they reduced the restrictor size on the R8's engine, due to the car not meeting new hybrid regulations, and stipulated the car shall carry ballast weight in an attempt to make the races more competitive. The R8 was restricted even further to only 520 bhp. At the 2005 Le Mans, the Audis failed to qualify on pole position; the fastest R8 started the race in third position. However, the car was able to outlast all other competitors to eventually take its fifth checkered flag at the Circuit de la Sarthe and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This victory was also notable since it was Tom Kristensen's sixth straight 24 Hours of Le Mans victory, and a record seventh overall, beating legendary driver Jacky Ickx's previous record of six career 24 Hours of Le Mans victories. To date, the R8 remains one of the fastest petrol-powered LMPs, setting a 3:29 at Le Mans, which was beaten only by the Lola-Aston Martins. However, the R8's best finish was at 379 laps, which is more than the Lola-Aston Martin's best at 373 laps.

List of records

[edit]

† - Season partially run by the Audi R10

Legacy

[edit]

2006: The R10 TDI

[edit]
Main article: Audi R10 TDI

In response to the new level of competition, Audi developed a successor known as the Audi R10 TDI. The V12 engined turbodiesel won at its race debut at the 2006 12 Hours of Sebring with both cars starting on the front row. However, the pole-sitting R10 had to start from the pit lane due to the need to rectify heat exchanger issues.

Emanuele Pirro, Frank Biela, and Marco Werner made history by becoming the first drivers to win the Le Mans 24-hour race in a diesel-powered car. The Audi R10 TDI completed a record 380 laps of the La Sarthe circuit, with Pirro at the wheel for the finish. French trio Sébastien Loeb, Éric Hélary, and Franck Montagny took second in the Pescarolo Judd No 17, four laps back. Scotsman Allan McNish was third in the other Audi, which came in 13 laps down after suffering mechanical problems.

Audi R8 road car at the 2006 Paris Motor Show

The R8 continued to campaign the American Le Mans Series through the first half of the 2006 season, and made its final US appearance on July 1, 2006, at Lime Rock Park, Connecticut, piloted by McNish and Capello. The R8 ended its career in style by winning the race, marking the 50th American Le Mans Series victory for the Audi R8. The R10s participated in the rest of the ALMS season, beginning with the race at Miller Motorsports Park, Utah.

2007: R8 road car

[edit]

The name Audi R8 also is used by the production road sports car Audi R8, which is based on the 2003 Audi Le Mans quattro concept car. Production started in 2007.

24 Hours of Le Mans results

[edit]
Year Team No Drivers Pole Fastest
lap 		Laps Overall
Position
2000 Germany Audi Sport Team Joest 7 Germany Christian Abt
Italy Michele Alboreto
Italy Rinaldo Capello 		no no 365 3rd
8 Germany Frank Biela
Denmark Tom Kristensen
Italy Emanuele Pirro 		no no 368 1st
9 France Laurent Aïello
United Kingdom Allan McNish
Monaco Stéphane Ortelli 		yes yes 367 2nd
2001 Germany Audi Sport Team Joest 1 Germany Frank Biela
Denmark Tom Kristensen
Italy Emanuele Pirro 		no no 321 1st
Germany Audi Sport North America 2 France Laurent Aïello
Italy Rinaldo Capello
Italy Christian Pescatori 		yes yes 320 2nd
United States Champion Racing 3 United Kingdom Johnny Herbert
Belgium Didier Theys
Germany Ralf Kelleners 		no no 81 DNF
United Kingdom Johansson Motorsport 4 Sweden Stefan Johansson
Netherlands Tom Coronel
France Patrick Lemarié 		no no 35 DNF
2002 Germany Audi Sport Team Joest 1 Germany Frank Biela
Denmark Tom Kristensen
Italy Emanuele Pirro 		no yes 375 1st
Germany Audi Sport North America 2 United Kingdom Johnny Herbert
Italy Rinaldo Capello
Italy Christian Pescatori 		yes no 374 2nd
Germany Audi Sport Team Joest 3 Germany Marco Werner
Germany Michael Krumm
Austria Philipp Peter 		no no 372 3rd
Japan Audi Sport Japan Team Goh 5 Japan Hiroki Katoh
France Yannick Dalmas
Japan Seiji Ara 		no no 358 7th
2003 Japan Audi Sport Japan Team Goh 5 Japan Seiji Ara
Denmark Jan Magnussen
Germany Marco Werner 		no no 370 4th
United States Champion Racing 6 Finland JJ Lehto
Italy Emanuele Pirro
Sweden Stefan Johansson 		no no 372 3rd
United Kingdom Audi Sport UK
United Kingdom Arena Motorsport 		10 Germany Frank Biela
United Kingdom Perry McCarthy
Finland Mika Salo 		no no 28 DNF
2004 United States ADT Champion Racing 2 Finland JJ Lehto
Germany Marco Werner
Italy Emanuele Pirro 		no no 368 3rd
Japan Audi Sport Japan Team Goh 5 Japan Seiji Ara
Italy Rinaldo Capello
Denmark Tom Kristensen 		no no 379 1st
United Kingdom Audi Sport UK Team Veloqx 8 United Kingdom Allan McNish
Germany Frank Biela
Germany Pierre Kaffer 		no no 350 5th
88 United Kingdom Jamie Davies
United Kingdom Johnny Herbert
United Kingdom Guy Smith 		yes yes 379 2nd
2005 United States ADT Champion Racing 2 Germany Frank Biela
United Kingdom Allan McNish
Italy Emanuele Pirro 		no no 364 3rd
3 Finland JJ Lehto
Denmark Tom Kristensen
Germany Marco Werner 		no no 370 1st
France Audi PlayStation Team Oreca 4 France Franck Montagny
France Jean-Marc Gounon
Monaco Stéphane Ortelli 		no no 362 4th

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Les24Heures".
  2. ^ Michael J. Fuller. "Mulsanne's Corner: 1999-2000 Porsche LMP1". Mulsannescorner.com. Archived from the original on 2014-04-07. Retrieved 2010-10-11.
  3. ^ a b Bornhop, Andrew (August 2012). "Ode to an R8". Road & Track. 63 (12): 61.
  4. ^ Alboreto Is Killed Testing Audi R8, The New York Times, April 26, 2001, Page D7.
[edit]
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