The Audi R8 Coupe (42) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro, launched in November 2006 and produced through October 2012, represents the first generation of Audi’s mid-engine sports car. Positioned as Audi’s flagship performance vehicle, the R8 aimed to compete directly with established rivals like the Porsche 911 and Lamborghini Gallardo (with which it shared a platform). This specific variant, equipped with the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine and a six-speed manual transmission, served as the entry point into the R8 lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance and relative affordability compared to the higher-spec 5.2-liter V10 models. It was built on the Audi Space Frame, a lightweight aluminum chassis, and utilized Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | R8 |
| Generation | R8 Coupe (42) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (420 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | November, 2006 |
| End of production | October, 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 22.1 l/100 km (10.6 US mpg, 12.8 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg, 19.3 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 301 km/h (187.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 269.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 275.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 7800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 4500-5500 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 4500-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BYH |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 300 kg (661.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 100 l (3.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 190 l (6.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4431 mm (174.45 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1252 mm (49.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 999 mm (39.33 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 782 mm (30.79 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18; 285/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18; 10.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the R8 4.2 FSI V8 quattro is the BYH engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine utilizes Audi’s FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, which allows for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its high-revving nature and power output. The 4.2-liter V8 produces 420 horsepower at 7800 rpm and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque between 4500 and 5500 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the rear of the vehicle, contributing to a favorable weight distribution. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection. The transmission featured a relatively short throw and precise engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The R8 4.2 with the manual transmission delivers a distinctly engaging driving experience. While not as brutally fast as the V10 variant, the V8 offers ample power for spirited driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car can reach a top speed of 187 mph. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing for strong acceleration in each gear. The steering is precise and communicative, providing the driver with a good sense of feel for the road. Compared to the V10, the V8 feels slightly less urgent, but its lighter weight contributes to a more nimble and balanced feel in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R8 4.2 came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. The dashboard featured a clean and minimalist design, with aluminum trim accents. Optional extras included navigation, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, carbon fiber interior trim, and various exterior customization options. Buyers could also opt for sport seats with more aggressive bolstering. The R8’s interior, while luxurious, prioritized a driver-focused experience over outright comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The R8’s chassis is constructed from Audi’s Aluminum Space Frame (ASF) technology, a lightweight and rigid structure that contributes significantly to the car’s handling performance. The suspension utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, both with coil springs and anti-roll bars. The braking system features ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The R8’s suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, offering a relatively compliant ride for a sports car while still providing excellent body control in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi R8 4.2 FSI V8 quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stunning design, impressive performance, and sophisticated technology. Compared to the V10 model, the V8 offered a more accessible price point, making it a more attainable option for a wider range of buyers. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for R8 buyers, was slightly better with the V8. Reliability has generally been good, although maintenance costs can be high due to the car’s exotic nature and specialized components. Compared to the Porsche 911, the R8 offered a more dramatic and visually striking design, as well as the added security of all-wheel drive.
Legacy
The Audi R8 4.2 FSI V8 quattro has established itself as a modern classic. The BYH engine, while not known for being exceptionally fuel-efficient, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. On the used car market, these R8s hold their value well, particularly those in excellent condition with low mileage. The first-generation R8 played a crucial role in establishing Audi as a serious contender in the high-performance sports car segment, paving the way for future models like the R8 V10 and the current R8 generation. Its combination of striking design, engaging driving dynamics, and advanced technology continues to appeal to enthusiasts today.
