       |
altodx |
|
|
25
apr 2004 |
The
Audi R8 importer teams were very impressive in Sundayís traditional
pre-test for the Le Mans 24 Hour race on 12/13 June 2004. Using the only
test possibility on the non-permanent race track, the four Audi R8 sports
cars occupied the top four positions. Fastest of the day was Scotlandís
Allan McNish, lapping the 13.650-kilometre track in Audi Sport UK Team
Veloqx's Audi R8 in 3m 32.615s. His team-mate Johnny Herbert was just
0.012 seconds behind. |
|
|
The modified aerodynamics of the Audi R8 proved itself during the eight-hour pre-test. Following new regulations, the sport prototypes have to use smaller rear wings in the 2004 season. Therefore, Audi reworked the R8 in the wind tunnel and has made a new aerodynamic configuration available to its customer teams that retrieves some of the downforce initially lost as a result of the regulation change. The result of the facelift: despite the new regulations, McNish and Herbert both beat Tom Kristensenís pole position time from last year (Bentley, 3m 34.820s). Even with the smaller rear-wing, the R8 still has a perfect balance at Le Mans, praised McNish. Audi Sportís technicians once more have done a great job. |
|
Dr
Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi motorsport, was also very positive: ìThe
work in the wind-tunnel has paid off and Michelin has provided us with
great tyres. As a result the three teams could make good use of the available
time, gathering important data for Juneís race which should be
very exciting: All four R8 cars were on a similar level for a long period
during the pre-test and have strong driver line-ups. |
|
