Pacified as we've been by the appearance of the 5.2-liter FSI V10 and LMS competition spec versions of the Audi R8, it's been a while since we've heard anything about the roadster version. But reports citing unnamed company insiders suggest that the ruthless roofless supercar is scheduled to hit the market by 2011.

Since Ingolstadt opts to stick with soft-tops on its other convertible models, the R8 Spyder is expected to follow suit in order to save on space and added weight. Earlier reports suggested a partial convertible targa-style roof opening, but the drop-top flagship is likely to get a more conventional and complete solution. The big question mark remains over whether the convertible variant will be limited to the V8 powertrain or whether it will get the more potent 5.2-liter V10... we'd hope that if they can manage to pack it all in behind the buckets, a V10 roadster would prove a delectable alternative to the likes of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster and Ferrari California, to say nothing of the R8's own sister Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder.

Below are some photoshops member Quinty did a ways back -

 

I think I like the Coupe Better, kinda looks weird without the "side blades"

 

I really like it, but no sideblades does look weird. I want to see it with the top down.

 

I like the idea, but maybe it's just me, without the side blades, that looks an awful lot like a TT, especially the last picture..........a TT for a LOT more money.....

Any reason Quinty figures the side blades will be gone (as opposed to smaller) on a cab?

 

I couldn't put my finger on it; it looks awful without the sideblades - like an entirely different car!

Anyways, why is it taking two more years to build a vert version? Why don't they introduce a 911 GT3 competitor in celebration of Le Mans victories (perhaps after this year if they pull it off again)?

 

That's a bad idea...

 

Dono why but I just don’t like the R8

 

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Some cars just shouldn't be a spider/roadster. The coupe is far nicer.

 

Eh, it does nothing for me. The coupe is definitely the way to go.