With 600 hp, but more weight to carry than the fixed-roof R8, the Spyder is slower against the clock. But 3.8 seconds to 62 mph and 199 mph flat out is still not too shabby, and I always maintain that open cars are for enjoying the scenery rather than trying to set outright lap records.
Abt has taken these two R8 V10s and turned them into polar extremes. The GTR is an ultimate hard-core track day car that remains civilized enough to be used as a daily driver, while the Spyder is one of the best cars of its type for enjoying an al fresco blast down Highway 1.
So which is better? This pair is so different in purpose and character that if you can't decide between them and you're an R8 addict, you really need to have both in your garage.
Abt-Sportsline R8 GTR
Layout
Longitudinal mid engine, all-wheel drive
Engine
5.2-liter V10, dohc, 40-valve; Abt exhaust and software remap
Transmission
Six-speed R tronic automated manual
Suspension
Abt/H&R coilovers
Brakes
OEM carbon-ceramic assemblies
Wheels and Tires
Abt alloys, 8.0x19 (f), 11.0x19 (r); Michelin Pilot Sport Cup, 235/35 (f), 305/30 (r)
Interior
Recaro seats, matte carbon steering wheel
Exterior
Carbon boot lid, front fenders, front and rear bumpers, front splitter, rear wing
Performance
Peak Power: 620 hp @ 8100 rpm
Peak Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 6400 rpm
0-62 mph: 3.2 sec.
Top Speed: 202 mph