‘On The Road With Alex Mascioli' ‘Drop Top Intimidation'; 2011 Audi R8 Spyder

The new Audi R8 Spyder has to be on this year's most anticipated cars list.  Since Audi introduced the coupe version three years ago to the market its sleek looks and mid-engine balance instantly became a sensation with car aficionados worldwide.  So it is no wonder that the much-rumored drop-top version is here.  The outward curb appeal is maintained with its current lines save for the retractable cloth top that neatly stows away in a compartment between the seats and engine bay.  In the rear, its engine is a 5.2 litre V-10 producing 525 horsepower, up from the original coupe's 4.2 litre V-8 with 420 horsepower (although the if the V-10 is too intimidating for you, the 8 cylinder power is still available).  Many components are shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo as Audi has owned the Italian automaker since 1997.  It is apparent that the Gallardo was the platform for the designing of the R8, although it is a clearly unique car in its own right.  Although the twelve-month waiting list can seem interminable, the R8 is truly worth the wait.  This is one car that will not disappoint.  If you can't wait to see this beauty perform in person, head to the cinema where it tears up the screen in the ‘Iron Man 2' movie currently playing.  Expected cost is roughly $170,000 when it makes its appearance on our side of the pond later this year, making it the most expensive Audi in history.

Greenwich Connecticut resident, entrepreneur and race-car driver, Alex Mascioli is a life-long performance car enthusiast.