Audi R8 LMP

The Audi R8 is a Sports Prototype race car introduced in 1999 for Sportscar racing as a redevelopment of their Audi R8R (open top LMP) and Audi R8C (closed top LMGTP). The 2000 and later version Audi R8 was very successful, winning many races and championships until it was retired during the 2006 season. It is considered by some to be the most successful sports cars ever (alongside such greats as the Porsche 956/962) having won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005. A streak of six straight Le Mans victories was broken-up only by the Bentley Speed 8 in 2003, when the R8 finished 3rd.

The gasoline-powered Audi R8 race car has been replaced from 2006 onwards by the new Audi R10 Diesel, however, the need to further develop the R10 has meant that the R8 has seen action in a few races leading up to Le Mans.