Spyder GT Orders Officially Open

[R8Spyderman]

My dealer received this communique from Audi USA and passed it along to be in hopes of rekindling my interest (not happening). It included an ordering guide which indicates that only 4 colors are being offered as standard: Glacier White Metallic, Phantom Black Metallic (? I thought it was "pearlescent", not "metallic"), Suzuka Gray Matte & Sphere Blue Matte (not familiar with that color), plus only list red or gray contrast stitching. I guess if one wants Samoa Orange and wants orange contrast stitching, one has to pay through the nose on this already overpriced car. That being said, at least they are not charging the big bucks to get matte finish paint as some mfr's do.

Following is the communique:


From: Audi Communications [mailto:AudiCommunications@audi.com]
Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2011 5:59 PM
Subject: DEALER COMMUNICATION: Audi R8 GT Spyder Start of Ordering

Audi of America, Inc.






Date: September 6, 2011

To: Certified R8 Dealer and Service R8 Dealer
General Managers and Sales Managers

From: Julia Olree – Product Launch Manager
Mark Fruechtnicht – Product Manager R8 / TT / A3

Subject: Audi R8 GT Spyder Start of Ordering




Dear R8 Dealers,

Earlier this summer the stunning open-top R8 GT Spyder was introduced to international media. At the same time, Audi of America shared exciting news of the high likelihood that the R8 GT Spyder would be offered for sale in the U.S. Today, Audi of America is pleased to announce to dealers that 50 of the very limited total planned global production of 333 R8 GT Spyder vehicles have been secured for the U.S.

The breathtaking R8 GT Spyder delivers exceptional performance, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h (62.14mph) in 3.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of 317 km/h (196.97 mph). The engine frame is constructed of ultra-light magnesium; the long cover over the soft-top compartment and the large side panels at the rear are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). Visual styling cues include contrasting titanium gray, an enlarged diffuser, dark LED tail lights in a clear-glass design, fixed rear spoiler and a front splitter with a dual lip. Great attention to detail is evident inside the car. The interior is black and can be adorned with stitching in a choice of titanium gray or crimson for added refinement. Alcantara upholstery comes standard on the seats, sport steering wheel, hand brake cover and windshield frame. Similar to the R8 GT Coupe, each car will be uniquely distinguished with an individual vehicle number of the total 333 unit global production volume displayed on the gear lever knob.

AoA Area teams will notify dealers directly regarding production allocation of the R8 GT Spyder units. U.S. production is expected to begin late Q4 2011, with the first U.S. customer deliveries expected in Spring 2012. Please reference the enclosed U.S. spec product information document for additional product details.

We hope this advanced launch information is helpful for you and your customers.

[soho]

Why'd you change your mind? If I recall correctly, you seemed ecstatic about being in an exclusive Spyder GT club.

[R8Spyderman]

Why'd you change your mind? If I recall correctly, you seemed ecstatic about being in an exclusive Spyder GT club.

Because the American-bound GTs have the same old seats I already have in my Spyder. I was looking forward to the racing seats found in Europe and beyond but apparently Audi doesn't think we Americans will want them.

[Loppy]

It's actually an airbag issue. US requires side airbags which are in the seat and Europe doesn't.

[R8Spyderman]

It's actually an airbag issue. US requires side airbags which are in the seat and Europe doesn't.

And yet, Ferrari seems to have overcome that minor obstacle in that the 458 and, if I'm not mistaken, the California have a range of seat options from the standard seat to the Daytona and to two sizes of racing seats. The Cali's base MSRP is less than the Spyder GT's and yet included are Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. I think Audi is overpricing and under-delivering with the GT & I've reconfirmed by decision not to order one now that I know that Samoa Orange and orange stitching are extra-cost options because if I think the Spyder GT is already overpriced and wouldn't want to have to pay so much extra to get the good brakes and my colors of choice.