Model Car Red and gray Audi R8 number 3 (24 hours of Le Mans?) - car added on base + plexi box
Scale 1/43
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Audi R8 24 Hours of Le Mans - A miniaturized endurance legend
This red and gray Audi R8 number 3 model car embodies the excellence of German engineering in the world of automotive endurance racing. Faithfully reproducing one of the most dominant prototypes in the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans , this collector's item captures the essence of top-level motor racing.
Presented on its display base and protected by a transparent case, this model car is an essential collector's item for any automobile and sports endurance enthusiast.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Audi R8
- Brand: Audi
- Livery: Red and gray, number 3
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Red and gray
- Protective case included: Yes
- Display base: Included
The Audi R8: Endurance Technology Revolution
Developed in the early 2000s, the Audi R8 represented a revolutionary approach to endurance racing. Designed specifically to dominate long-distance events, this prototype sports car incorporated the most advanced technologies of the time, including a V8 turbo FSI engine and a competition-tuned quattro drivetrain.
The R8 stood out for its carefully studied aerodynamic design, with specific appendages optimizing lift and stability at high speeds. Its carbon monocoque chassis and carbon-carbon braking system gave it formidable efficiency on the most demanding endurance circuits.
This racing car marked a new era in Audi's manufacturing philosophy, demonstrating that technological innovation could combine with pure performance to create exceptional machines capable of pushing the boundaries of automotive endurance.
Audi: Four rings, a passion for performance
At the time of the R8's development, Audi was undergoing a period of intense technological creativity driven by its sports car department. The brand with the four rings, building on its rally heritage with the legendary Quattro, was seeking to conquer new competitive territories, particularly international endurance racing.
Audi's history dates back to 1910, but it was in the 1980s that the brand truly established itself as a synonym for innovation with the introduction of quattro all-wheel drive. This technical expertise, initially developed for rally cars , naturally finds its place in the world of endurance racing, where traction and reliability are key assets.
The transition to endurance racing cars was part of Audi's overall strategy to demonstrate the superiority of its technologies in the most extreme conditions of motor racing.
The anecdote: When innovation meets tradition
The history of the Audi R8 at Le Mans is full of fascinating anecdotes that perfectly illustrate the evolution of modern motor racing. During its first outings on the Circuit de la Sarthe, the R8 had to adapt to the unique characteristics of this legendary event, particularly the long Mulsanne Straights where top speed becomes crucial.
A particularly striking anecdote concerns the development of the red and gray livery. This color combination was not just aesthetic: it responded to specific technical considerations related to nighttime visibility and recognition by race stewards. The number 3 displayed by this version testifies to the tradition of endurance racing, where each number tells a particular story.
Audi engineers also had to adapt their technical approach to the specific constraints of Le Mans. Unlike traditional circuits, this event poses special challenges: thermal management over 24 hours, component resistance to temperature variations between day and night, and aerodynamic optimization for fast sections while maintaining acceptable handling in technical sections.
This Audi R8 thus embodies an era where German technological innovation met the French tradition of endurance, creating exceptional machines which still mark the imagination of automobile enthusiasts today and enrich the collections of model cars of the 24 Hours of Le Mans .
Complete your collection of endurance model cars
This model car Audi R8 naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to racing cars and endurance legends. It dialogues perfectly with other iconic models from this golden era of motor racing, notably the competing prototypes that marked the 2000s.
For collectors passionate about the Audi universe, this R8 is a central piece that can be enriched with other models of the brand, from Audi road cars to competition versions. The 1/43 scale facilitates integration into an existing collection while offering a remarkable level of detail.
This model car is particularly aimed at discerning collectors who appreciate the history of racing cars, endurance enthusiasts who wish to relive the great moments of Le Mans, and Audi technology enthusiasts who want to own a faithful representation of German innovation in motorsport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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