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Audi Launches Racing Legends Project for Classic Cars
Audi is making a significant move by offering LMP1 prototypes and DTM touring cars from its illustrious racing history for sale to collectors. For the first time, these vehicles will be available in full running condition, allowing new owners the thrill of racing them.
The initiative, termed the ‘racing legends project team,’ is a new division within Audi Sport that focuses on restoring cars that were part of its official racing programs. The plan ensures that the restored vehicles can be actively driven on the racetrack, providing an authentic experience for enthusiasts.
The project will encompass comprehensive technical support as well as the provision of spare parts to facilitate the ongoing operation of these vintage racing machines.
On Wednesday, Audi Sport unveiled this new venture at its headquarters in Neuburg an der Donau, showcasing the first two cars prepared for competitive outings.
The featured vehicles are a second-generation Audi R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 from 2012 and a 2015 RS5 DTM touring car.
This launch signifies the commencement of Audi’s racing legends program’s sales phase, with planned appearances of the R18 and RS5 at prestigious events such as the Le Mans Classic and the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.
Rolf Michl, managing director of Audi Sport, emphasized the meticulous restoration process, stating, “We are rebuilding these chassis together with reconditioned parts from that time into racing cars according to strict standards and with a high level of expertise.” He further highlighted that the R18 e-tron quattro and the RS5 DTM are amongst the fastest racing cars ever produced by the manufacturer.
“Customers can look forward not only to extremely sought-after racing cars, but also to a firework display of driving emotions,” Michl added, reflecting the passionate spirit of the initiative.
The restored R18, chassis #207, was previously driven by the renowned trio of Romain Dumas, Loic Duval, and Marc Gene, who celebrated a debut victory at round two of the 2012 World Endurance Championship at Spa. Although Audi had also secured victory at the inaugural round of the revived World Endurance Championship at the Sebring 12 Hours, they opted to utilize the previous R18 TDI model for that event.
In parallel, the DTM vehicle, chassis #107, also boasts a successful racing history, having clinched victory at the 2015 DTM finale with veteran driver Timo Scheider behind the wheel.
First deliveries from Audi Sport’s newly established division are anticipated to commence in the summer, heralding a fresh chapter in classic motorsport.
Audi’s strategic expansion into the sales and restoration of historical racing vehicles aligns with industry trends, mirroring Ferrari’s successful F1 Clienti program, which allows select customers to get behind the wheel of Formula 1 cars during exclusive events.
This development arrives as Audi’s customer racing department winds down operations, having concluded the production of GT3, GT2, and GT4 variants of the R8 coupe, as well as the RS3-based TCR car. The last R8 GT3 racer, marking the 310th unit produced since 2009, was delivered in November of the previous year.
Source
www.autosport.com