In 2006, Audi offered a new concept; a well-engineered, relatively practical, mid-engine, high performance sports coupé. Customers must have liked the idea, as the R8 would stay in production for 18 years, with the final car being built in early 2024. With a choice of coupés and convertibles, V8 and V10 engines and manual and automatic gearboxes, the car, which was based on the platform of the Lamborghini Gallardo, has sold well across the globe.

The car we have here is one of less than 300 examples to be sold in the UK, it is one of the final runout versions of the first generation R8, offering 543bhp, 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 197mph from its 5.2-litre V10 engine. Carbon ceramic brakes were also specified to back up all of that grunt with adequate stopping power. The car was originally registered as a demonstrator by Southend Audi, and is therefore in a particularly high specification. The paint colour is Panther Black, a hugely desirable colour which shows flecks of purple and gold in different light and presents in immaculate condition. The car has formed part of our vendors private collection and is detailed every two weeks to keep it in top condition. Our vendor purchased the car from its first private owner in June 2023, and sent it to his detailer straight away to have the exterior paintwork and carbon trims machine polished, carbon coated and protected, the wheels refurbished and a new set of tyres fitted.  The car is presented in absolutely exceptional condition throughout, a testament to how well our vendor likes to keep his collection.

The V10 plus benefitted from the new, at the time, Audi S-tronic dual clutch gearbox, a vast improvement over the earlier R-tronic version. The specification also includes a full compliment of carbon including side blades, wing mirrors, front splitter, rear diffuser, engine bay and interior trim. Continuing on the interior, we have optional Bang & Olufsen hifi, Bluetooth connectivity, diamond stitched electric and heated sports seats and switchable sport mode exhaust. This R8 is one of the most attractive specifications out there and is offered to auction with a V5C registration document, new MoT test certificate and records of all service and maintenance works. The car is also ULEZ compliant. Consigned by Fraser Smith