Based loosely on the production model, this racing version of the Audi R8 is what the company's motorsport division has been cooking up as a rear-wheel-drive, GT3-spec car that will be sold to customers for racing. Codenamed the "R16," the R8 GT3 should have over 500 HP to go up against the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup and the Jaguar XKR GT3. Other upgrades include a six-speed sequential sports gearbox and an obvious aerodynamics package, but in accordance with GT3 rules, the suspension is very similar to a street car. So when can we expect to see it in action?

Audi factory driver Frank Biela has already been putting the R8 GT3 through its paces. The cars are scheduled to enter production at Hungary's Györ plant, with expected delivery to customers starting some time next year. No word on how many will be built, or what they'll cost, but we're sure it's more than a road-going R8. [via MotorAuthority]

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