Rear-wheel drive Audi R8 GT3

German tuner MTM has taken the wraps off its rather mad Audi R8. And the big news is, it’s gone two-wheel drive. The quattro system’s front driveshafts have been binned, making this the first rear-driven R8 for the road. Dubbed the R8 GT3-2 (note the Lamborghini-aping number tag), it’s not just the driven-wheel count that’s changed. The R8’s 4.2-litre V8 engine has gained a supercharger, upping power from 414bhp to a far healthier 552bhp, an identical output to a Gallardo LP560-4. Torque rises from 317lb ft to 428lb ft, a figure higher than the Lambo. Those increases send the MTM R8 to 62mph in 3.9sec and onto a 197mph top speed, while an unsilenced exhaust system means you won’t get there subtly. The addition of aerodynamic addenda will see to that, too. The suspension system isn't left untouched, with MTM providing an adjustable kit that works in conjunction with lightweight forged alloys – 20in items that come wrapped in your choice of Dunlop Sport Maxx GT or Michelin Cup Sport tyres. If the MTM R8 GT3-2 excites you, but you’re cursing the regular R8 that’s already laid claim to your savings, then fear not: as well as piecing together complete cars, MTM can convert existing V8-engined R8s into GT3-2s. Happy days. Despite its all-wheel drive, though, the regular R8 has always been quite the drifter. Here you can see Chris Harris enthusiastically demonstrating the fact on video in both the V10 Coupe and new R8 Spyder. Click here to see the racing rear-drive Audi R8 GT3 Audi R8 battles Aston V12, Porsche GT3 and Corvette  Join evo on our Twitter, Facebook and Youtube pages