Audi gives us yet another R8. This time, it's a V8 powered, R8 Spyder

Most true car aficionados know that the Audi R8 is actually the first-cousin of Lamborghini's Gallardo. And, since car-giant VW owns both companies, it has to carefully time the launch of similar cars within its product portfolio.

Lamborghini's Gallardo Spyder has already been on the market for several years now. And, it's safe to say that Raging Bull fans won't be defecting to Audi's new droptop.

Even though the two cars are close kin, each one is completely unique to their respective brand.

Audi's version sits on an aluminum spaceframe, and comes with the legendary Quattro All-Wheel Drive system. Power comes from the Coupé's 4.2-litre FSI (Fuel Stratification Injection a.k.a. Direct Injection) V8, which makes 430 bhp. That's enough power to propel the 1,735 kilogram R8 Spyder 4.2 to 100 km/h in only 4.8 seconds.

Unrestricted, the new Spyder will go 299 km/h flat-out.

Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual gearbox, or Audi's R tronic sequential manual, which only weighs 5 kg more.

The R8 Spyder 4.2 gets the same power-folding soft top that comes on the 5.2 (V10) Spyder. Along with other high-end amenities including a seatbelt mounted bluetooth microphone, Nappa leather seats, seven speaker "concert" sound system, and Xeon headlamps.

Safety features include; 8-piston front brakes (carbon fibre-ceramic disks are an option), a full compliment of airbags, and a roll over protection system.

The R8 Spyder 4.2 goes on sale in Europe this fall.