This R8 began as a naturally aspirated 5.2 V10 with a clear 1400 HP target. Twin turbos required us to rethink charge-air cooling, lubrication, fuel supply and transmission capacity, building one matched system rather than a collection of powerful parts.
R8 twin turbo: road test
Transforming a naturally aspirated V10
The second-generation Audi R8’s mid-mounted 5.2 V10 is naturally aspirated from the factory. We fitted two Garrett G35 turbos. This requires more than extra pipework: airflow, cooling and lubrication must operate as a complete system.
The turbo installation was tailored to the vehicle layout. We improved intake manifold sealing for boost and designed an additional crankcase ventilation system. These less visible components are essential to stable operation.
Cooling and turbo operation
Two water-cooled intercoolers cool the compressed air, with two dedicated front-mounted radiators for their circuit. This helps control intake temperature during sustained high-load operation.
The naturally aspirated R8 had no turbo lubrication circuit, so we designed one for this build. Two 60 mm Turbosmart valves provide boost control. These supporting systems are matched to the twin-turbo installation.
DL800, clutch and differential
The seven-speed DL800 was prepared for increased load with Dodson reinforcement components, an upgraded clutch and clutch housing. Transmission capacity must match the engine’s potential, particularly under abrupt torque delivery.
The driveline received a Wavetrac limited-slip differential. We assess the entire power-transfer chain, from clutch and transmission to tyre grip, rather than only peak engine output.
Fuel system and Syvecs management
Higher-capacity pumps and an E85 content sensor were installed by the fuel tank. Fuel supply must meet the increased airflow across the operating range, not only at the instant of peak power.
The factory ECU was replaced with programmable Syvecs management, allowing fuel, ignition and boost to be calibrated for the new mechanical specification and monitored under real loads.
The complete 1400 HP build
The 1400 HP target shaped this R8 from the start. Reaching it requires attention to air temperature, fuel reserve, transmission behaviour and delivery to the road, rather than boost pressure alone.
We judge the final specification through measurements and track behaviour, aiming for repeatable results and a controllable car beyond a single test run.
2024 Polski Grand Prix — first place
A moment from the 2024 Polski Grand Prix quarter-mile championship, where we took first place.
