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Abt has transformed an Audi R8 GT2 race car into a street-legal sports car, introducing the Abt XGT, a vehicle that not only stands out on public roads but also competes closely with the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
A seemingly ordinary curve on the autobahn became unforgettable for the driver of a Skoda Octavia. We were cruising comfortably in the right lane until it was time to unleash the full force of acceleration. Shifting through the second, third, and fourth gears, we pushed the V10 engine to its limits, expertly snapping the gears with the right paddle. Each shift echoed with a satisfying bam as the green LEDs on the dashboard raced to the right, accompanied by the piercing roar of the V10. With no sound insulation to speak of, the exhilarating symphony of combustion flooded the cabin. The Skoda driver ahead? Not so fortunate. As the cacophony enveloped him, he visibly recoiled, barely managing to stay in his lane.
We were in the Abt XGT, a powerhouse that may appear to be a heavily modified Audi R8 with an imposing rear wing at first glance. Still, it’s more than just a beefed-up sports car—it’s a fully-fledged GT2 race car with a legal certification for the streets. This transformation involved significant modifications. “Behind the license plate are over 40 individual approvals,” explains Martin Tomczyk, a former racer and now Director of Motorsport at Abt.
These modifications pertain to various aspects including diagnostics, emission standards, and safety in crashes. With such extensive changes, the Abt XGT does not carry an Audi chassis number; instead, it boasts its own, signifying the enormous effort involved in making this beast roadworthy. Understandably, this level of thrill comes at a hefty price. Only 99 units will be released, each starting from €599,200. To enhance everyday usability, engineers incorporated several comfort features. An air conditioning system ensures a cool cabin while cornering, and the car’s body is raised by about 10 to 15 millimeters to avoid scraping on obstacles. A front axle lift system is also included, with the XGT equipped with larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tires instead of the usual 18-inch racing tires.
The car features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, yet the driver must shift manually for a more engaging experience. The only exception is the first gear, which disengages the clutch automatically—handy when sitting at a red light. A rear-view camera aids with parking, essential since the massive spoiler obstructs the view through the rear hatch.
After two years of development by Abt’s team, this pure sports car retains its racing essence even when stationary. Getting into the seat necessitates climbing through a roll cage and securing oneself with a four-point racing harness. The seat is fixed in place, adjusting the steering column and pedals instead. The interior is a testament to racing design, with a steering wheel equipped with “horns” and various buttons at the ready. The center console mirrors this, where every switch serves a distinct function. Starting the car feels like preparing a fighter jet for takeoff—you cannot simply turn a key. A protective plastic cover slides away from the power button, and pressing it ignites the machine.
With a mechanical whirr, the systems activate, and a final press of the button awakens the 5.2-litre V10 engine behind the driver. “I’m ready! Let’s go!” it seems to roar as the intake roof draws in air for the howling V10. We shift into first gear and the Abt XGT surges forward like a racehorse out of the gate, eager for the open road. With 470 kW / 640 PS and over 550 Nm of torque, this machine is poised to redefine the order on the streets.
While achieving maximum speed wasn’t the primary goal, the XGT’s statistics remain impressive, boasting a top speed of 310 km/h and a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.2 seconds. “At 200 km/h, the car generates about 900 kilograms of downforce,” reveals Martin Tomczyk. This feature is vital, as the carbon fiber body and a nearly full fuel tank result in a total weight of only 1,450 kilograms. Without the downforce, the XGT would become airborne easily; instead, it adheres to the asphalt with remarkable grip. Every turn is a thrill, and each one feels like a slightly adjusted straightaway. The XGT excels in cornering, exemplifying the Newtonian law of action and reaction. The ultra-responsive steering allows for immediate changes in direction, while every press of the accelerator brings instantaneous speed. It’s an embodiment of racing. Similarly, the steel brakes demand a firm push but offer exceptional stopping capability. After a few kilometers, drivers acclimate to the car’s directness, developing a seamless connection with the machine. The Abt XGT is an exhilarating ride—not suited for everyone, but ideal for true racing enthusiasts.
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