audi r8 - more details, plus new a8 model

[Eaton Dave <dave.eaton@minedu.govt.nz>]

miscellaneous audi news....

the facelifted a8 is mentioned as having "lightened" drivetrain components
with the specific aim of decreasing unsprung weight.  the new engines have
lower frictions bits and produce about +10hp.


further r8 details:

the 1st chassis has been undergoing tests (around 600 miles so far).  the
engine is a turbo v8 which is all-new and less than 4 litres (perhaps
derived from the dtm v8's apparently).  nice rear photo of 4 very large
exhausts.

confirmation that this is the 3rd prototype developed by audi.  there have
been a gt1, an open gt1 roadster and the current car.  the decision to
concentrate on the open-top racer was made in march.  the major issue has
been aerodynamics, of course.  ullrich says that it is hard to get a
successful aerodynamic solution "which looks like a audi road car".  the car
will run in silver apparently.  it is planned to use michelin tyres.

the chassis has been built by dallara (ex ferrari 333sp).  the option of
moving to (ex) toms for chassis and suspension fabrication is being
considered.  toms factory (along with uk audi sport) are  both working on
the program.

tony southgate (aka ullrich's personal advisor) is there to make sure that
lessons already learned from the jag and toyota le mans programs are passed
on.

it also seems that audi's decision to go the prototype route and not gt1 has
been vindicated by the recent le mans regulation changes which seem to
effectively spell the end to the gt1 formula.  sorry m-b and porsche...

dave
'95 rs2
'90 ur-q