Audi’s first true supercar, the R8 debuted in 2006 as a production version of the Le Mans quattro, a concept vehicle that had proved immensely popular. Developed by the new high-performance subsidiary Audi Sport GmbH, it was based upon the platform of the Lamborghini Gallardo and used an aluminum monocoque space frame with either a twin-cam V-8 or V-10 engine, with full-time, rear-biased all-wheel drive providing superb traction and handling. A soft-top version, the R8 Spyder, followed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It featured additional chassis reinforcement, a pair of safety bars behind the seats for roll-over protection, numerous subtle tweaks to the body, and boasted the 525-horsepower V-10 as standard equipment.

The R8 5.2 Quattro Spyder offered here was an Audi-approved VIP order through Audi Exclusive, finished in Ibis White over a combination Audi Exclusive Enhanced Leather Package interior with bright Crimson Red Nappa leather seats and Classic Red matching trim to the steering wheel, console, and dashboard, as well as a bright red top, altogether creating a striking effect. Carbon Sigma trim is used on the lower inner door cards and for the side-view mirrors, and polished wheels add their own subtle touch. While no documentation survives, at the time of delivery the final price reportedly exceeded $210,000.

Since its build in late 2011, the car has seldom been driven and kept well preserved in a controlled environment. At the time of cataloguing it had recorded only 883 miles and still retained its temporary identification sticker from Audi Mission Viejo, the original delivering dealer in California.

One of the best-preserved examples of Audi’s landmark supercar to become available in recent times, this car boasts a marvelous color scheme and numerous special Audi VIP touches to recommend it. It would be ideal to continue maintaining its low-mileage condition, or perhaps to take it out for a run in the snow this winter.