Audi exec hints at lightweight R8 and TT 'Sport' models

BMW has enjoyed some success with its CSL range of stripped out ready-to-race M3s and Mercedes-Benz is on the verge of delivering its third lightweight Black Series model. That leaves the third major German carmaker, Audi, who will soon offer uprated sports versions of its regular production models. Speaking at a recent press event Audi’s quattro development chief Stefan Reil hinted that lightweight versions of the R8 supercar and TT were being considered.

Still in the works are high-performance RS versions of both the R8 and TT as well as a possible R8 V12 TDI but according to Reil Audi could also offer new ‘Sport’ derivatives of both cars with extra power and less weight. This wouldn’t be the first time Audi developed such a car. Back in 2005 it released a limited edition TT quattro Sport to mark the end of production of the previous generation TT. The car had a slight increase in power over the standard model as well as firmer suspension, a stripped our interior and Recaro bucket seats.

"This is the direction you can go and make business," Reil explained. "It makes sense for the TT, and maybe in the future in an R8."

The upcoming R8-RS is tipped to receive the 580hp twin-turbo V10 from the new RS6, and if given an extensive weight saving program the car could easily become the new benchmark for ultra-performance supercars.

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