If the launch of 2019 facelift of the Audi R8 before the end of this year is not exciting enough for you, then we have a scoop that might help. Audi is analyzing the prospects of reviving the rear-wheel-drive RWS model! The non-Quattro version of the R8 was limited to just 999 copies all across the globe, out of which only 330 were earmarked for the U.S.

Will the Audi R8 V10 RWS Come Back?

According to the marketing manager Linda Kurz, the R8 RWS was a “great success,” and might lead to the rear-wheel drive version coming out of retirement for the R8's final run on the market. Will it be a limited production car this time around too? It better be. How else would you make the first 999 customers feel exclusive? Audi already has the Quattro-equipped R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus, for regular production anyway.

Just last week, the facelifted Audi R8 Spyder was spotted doing test rounds; meaning the launch is round the corner. The facelift barely has any exterior changes, with the most prominent one being the large oval exhaust tips as seen on the RS-badged Audis.

If the rear-wheel-drive model makes it into production as part of this facelift, don’t expect it to be radically different from the Quattro version. The current versions of the R8 don’t look much different either. But, what if Audi does not bring back the R8 RWS? Well, customers will have to look at the expensive substitute instead - the Huracan 580-2, which is available in both, Coupe and Spyder forms.

Would you prefer the rear-wheel-drive Audi R8 over the all-wheel-drive model? Share your thoughts in the comments sections below.

Audi Audi R8 Drivetrain Specifications

Audi R8 V10

Audi R8 V10 Plus

Type

5.2 FSI V-10

5.2 FSI V-10

Output

540 HP

610 HP

Torque

398.3 LB-FT

413 LB-FT

0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph)

3.5 Seconds

3.2 Seconds

Top Speed

200 MPH

205 MPH


Further reading

Read our full review on the 2019 Audi R8.

Read our full review on the 2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS.