For decades, Audi has been synonymous with the total traction of quattro all-wheel drive. No longer.

Audi Sport has unveiled a rear-wheel drive version of its R8 supercar at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Dubbed the R8 V10 RWS, it is “made for purists” according to Audi Sport’s recently departed CEO Stephan Winkelmann.

It is “A limited-edition special model for customers with an appreciation for essential driving enjoyment,” says Winkelmann, and “successfully bring the driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets.”

Audi R8 V10 RWS engine.jpg

Acceleration is dulled slightly compared to all-wheel drive models, the R8 RWS managing 0-100km/h in a still-brisk 3.7sec (Spyder 3.8sec) on its way to a top speed of 320km/h (Spyder 318km/h). Audi claims the chassis tuning is specially adapted for “incredibly fun driving”, a valid claim if it’s Lamborghini Huracan LP580-2 is anything to go by.

Audi R8 V10 RWS driving.jpg

A “very limited number” of R8 RWSs will come to Australia, with delivers expected in March 2018. Pricing is still to be confirmed, but based on the European pricing expect a figure in the region of $400,000.