The second-generation Audi R8 debuted in 2015 and continued the model line-up of the first generation. It's a true supercar, with a powerful mid-mounted atmospheric V10 engine that delivers between 530 and 610 horsepower as standard. While the standard model has good performance, for drivers with a thirst for speed and power, StartLine Motors has developed a unique upgrade package to double the power output.
The R8 comes standard with a 5.2-litre, V-shaped, ten-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers 530 horsepower in the base model, rising to 540 after the 2018 facelift. Slightly more powerful were the V10 Plus versions, with 600 horsepower before the facelift and 610 horsepower after. Power is sent to all four wheels of the R8 via a seven-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission.
All of this makes the second-generation Audi R8 the perfect platform for those wanting a supercar that has great potential for power boost. StartLine Motors has taken advantage of this by developing power boost packages for this car, allowing it to reach more than 1000 or even 1600 horsepower.
The main focus of the upgrade is the introduction of turbines. Two Garret G35 turbines are fitted to the R8's mid-mounted engine, which is cooled by two water-cooled intercoolers. For maximum efficiency, two radiators have been designed and installed at the front of the car to provide water cooling for the system.
Once the turbines were fitted to the naturally aspirated engine, StartLine Motors also had to design the turbine lubrication system. The turbines are depressurised by two 60 mm Turbosmart valves, and the increased pressure is used to reinforce the tightness of the intake manifold. The engine intake system has also been redesigned.
These modifications allow the Audi R8's engine power to be increased to 1000 horsepower. Despite the significant increase in power output, both the standard engine and automatic transmission units are able to cope with the increase in power without any additional modifications. The standard engine management system does not need to be modified either.
For drivers of the second-generation Audi R8, StartLine Motors also offers the opportunity to go one step further, with 1,150 horsepower. However, this requires additional modifications. For example, the DL800 automatic gearbox is reinforced with Dodson production elements specifically designed for it, while the drive train is improved by the introduction of a Wavetrac limited-slip differential.
The clutch and its housing are also replaced with a stronger clutch. This allows the gearbox to work smoothly and withstand the significant increase in engine power. The fuel supply system is modified by installing higher capacity pumps at the fuel tank, thus introducing an E85 analyser. The standard engine management computer is replaced by a Syvecs programmable engine management system to ensure correct operation of the systems.
More than 1000 horsepower is a lot, but it's not the full potential of the V10 engine fitted to the Audi R8. StartLine Motors is looking for the limits, so it's taking another big step up in power and setting a new target for this supercar - 1600 horsepower, triple the power offered by the standard model.
This power boost package requires the standard engine to be reinforced, so stronger connecting rods and lower compression pistons are fitted. The engine heads are also modified with new intake and exhaust valves and reinforced Ferrea springs for smoother, more reliable operation. The heads themselves are attached to the engine block with studs that can withstand higher loads instead of bolts. The new Garret G35-1050 turbines provide sufficient airflow to the combustion chamber.
The threefold increase in engine power requires appropriate modifications to the gearbox. All standard gears and clutch are replaced by more robust elements manufactured by Dodson to ensure proper power transmission to all four Audi R8 drive wheels and reliability.
These packages are available for both standard and more powerful V10 Plus models, regardless of year of manufacture. All modifications to the Audi R8 are carried out in StartLine Motors professional workshops and are tested under real-life conditions, ensuring that all systems work reliably and efficiently.
