In 2012, Audi unveiled the R18 e-tron Quattro, an advanced version of its LMP endurance racer. The car dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Now, thanks to Audi Sport’s new racing legends program, customers with deep pockets have the chance to drive one of the fastest Le Mans-winning cars in history.
The racing legends project, launched this year, offers exclusive driving experiences, catering to enthusiasts who can afford it. While modern endurance racing is tightly regulated, with budget caps and strict rules, earlier cars like the R18 e-tron were built without such restrictions, making them high-performance machines. This is similar to changes in DTM racing, where GT3 cars now compete instead of the more advanced Class 1 racers from the past.
While buying a car that raced at Le Mans isn’t new, Audi’s offer is unique. Along with purchasing the R18, buyers will receive full factory support, including spare parts, technical inspections, and repairs. This level of assistance mirrors manufacturer programs for older F1 cars, although the R18 Hybrid is much more complex. Private owners wouldn’t be able to drive the car without Audi’s help.
The car on offer is the R18 chassis 207, which finished fifth at the 2012 Le Mans but claimed victory at the Spa Six Hours. Also for sale is a 2015 RS5 DTM car, chassis 107, which is also a race winner.
The DTM car is similar to those currently racing in Japanese Super GT, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 600 horsepower. Unlike the current GT3 racers, the DTM car is far more specialized and would easily outperform today’s competitors.
Audi Sport will showcase both cars at various events in Europe this year, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed. If the program proves successful, more chassis may be offered in the future.
Driving either of these cars will undoubtedly be costly. However, unlike most retired race cars, which are typically put into storage or displayed in museums, these Audis will be back on the track, offering a rare opportunity to see them in action once again.
