Audi’s Selling Iconic Race Cars Like The R18 And RS5 DTM To The Public
These two are just the first of many real race cars about to be available
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by Stephen Rivers
Audi is selling some of its own race cars, including some that have won high-profile races.
The new program begins with two legends, the RS 5 DTM and R18 e-tron Quattro.
The best part is that cars in this program will reach buyers in drivable condition.
If you’ve ever fantasized about tearing up a track in a real-deal race car—one with actual trophies in its rearview, Audi has something that might interest you. The brand is launching a new program that gives enthusiasts a chance to own genuine, competition-tested race cars, restored and ready to drive. And it’s not just any old leftovers from the paddock; Audi is kicking things off with two machines that once stood on podiums.
Dubbed the Audi Sport Racing Legends project, this new venture is exactly what it sounds like: the sale of old race cars to everyday folks. Well, perhaps not just anybody with cash on hand, as Audi is being selective about who gets the keys to these cars. They’re looking for special buyers who appreciate the heritage, not just the horsepower.
Read: BMW’s E30 M3 Reimagined As A Modern Neue Klasse Tribute
It’s kicking off the program with the sale of two notable cars. Perhaps most special is the 207 chassis of the R18 e-tron Quattro. This exact car won the 2012 FIA World Endurance Championship WEC at Spa-Francorchamps. It’s not the same exact car that won Le Mans in 2012, but it is of the same type.
Legendary Cars, Ready for a Second Act
In addition, Audi is selling an RS 5 DTM, chassis 107, which won the 2015 DTM finale in Hockenheim. Don’t fret about whether these cars are going to buyers in somewhat worn-out condition. “We rebuild these chassis together with reconditioned parts from that time into racing cars according to strict standards and with a high level of expertise,” says Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “In some cases, even the developers from that era are involved in the current projects.
More Than Just a Car Sale
So what does the full experience look like for buyers? According to Michl, it’s more than a transaction—it’s an entry into a rarefied group. “The Audi R18 e-tron quattro and the RS 5 DTM are two of the fastest racing cars we have ever built. Customers can look forward not only to extremely sought-after racing cars, but also to a firework display of driving emotions. Our customers become part of a select circle, benefit from our motorsport expertise, and receive comprehensive support.”
This support isn’t just lip service, either. Audi plans to provide ongoing assistance, even if owners decide to return their cars to the track for some non-competitive fun.
Before they go to new homes, these cars will be shown off at several events: in Germany from May 9–11, in France from July 3–6, and at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK from July 10–13. Sales are expected to begin later in the year.
