One to Buy: ex-works 2013 Audi R8 LMS Ultra
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The third and final GT3 racing variant of Audi’s Type 42 R8 LMS was the Ultra which came on stream during 2012. As expected, it arrived with a wide-ranging upgrade pack that enhanced practically ever aspect of the R8’s performance.
Engine-wise, the 5.2-litre normally aspirated V10 gained some extra torque and a new exhaust system. The six-speed sequential gearbox was toughened up and cooling systems for the engine, transmission, brakes, steering hydraulics and interior were all improved.
Elsewhere, aerodynamic tweaks included a wider, louvred front hood, a new front underbody plate with better diffusion and a re-positioned, wider rear spoiler with larger end plates. Lightweight CFRP doors now came with high-energy absorbing crash foam. Inside there was a lightweight PS1 safety seat.
Chassis changes comprised a set of wider wheels and tyres, uniball transverse control arm mounts and new lightweight adjustable Bilstein gas dampers.
The overwhelming majority of R8 LMS Ultras were supplied to privateer teams who used the model to great effect in GT3 championships around the world. By contrast, Audi retained just a handful of cars for works use, one of which was this example currently residing at the Duncan Hamilton ROFGO showroom in Micheldever, Hampshire.
Owned by Audi Sport and prepared on its behalf by Phoenix Racing which had been a factory-supported team since 2009, chassis AS42A0FGT3130515 most famously served as the number 3 car for the 2014 Nurburgring 24 Hours where it was entered for Frank Stippler, Marc Basseng, Marcel Fassler and Laurens Vanthoor.
Unfortunately, having qualified sixth, chassis ‘515’ crashed out during the second hour when a suspected mechanical failure launched Basseng into the barriers at Tiergarten. By contrast, the number 4 sister car (chassis ‘611’ driven by Christopher Haase, Christian Mamerow, Rene Rast and Markus Winkelhock) went on to claim Audi’s second victory at the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
Today, chassis ‘515’ appears to be in practically as-new condition and is accompanied by its original Wagenpass.
