The Audi R8 solidified its supercar status when it received a version of the 5.2-liter V-10 from the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. While the R8’s V-10 is nearly identical, it is slightly less powerful, and it seemed reasonable that corporate politics might prevent the R8 from ever matching the horsepower figure of the Lambo. Now that this limited-edition R8 GT is granted the same 552-hp output as the little Lambo, the raging bull might very well be huffing, snorting, and ping-ponging off its pen walls in a fit of rage. To add insult to injury, the LP560’s weight advantage over the V-10 R8—3507 pounds versus 3755, according to our scales—crumbles, as the R8 GT drops an estimated 220 pounds. Ruh-roh, we smell a family feud in the works.

The R8 GT is set to go on sale in Germany for €193,000, or about $255,000 at the current exchange rate. So, will we see a few copies in the U.S.? It has yet to be confirmed, but our sources say it’s quite probable that some of the 333 cars will be rationed for our roads. We expect U.S. cars to come in around $200K, but don’t expect to see the lightweight seats or race packages offered. We’re okay with that, as long as we get a chance behind the wheel.

The R8 pleases drivers in lots of small ways, too. It's amply big inside, so tall drivers who get cramped in a Maserati will fit with ease. The controls feel light and accurate, like those on the way-back machine of all time, the Acura NSX. Fuel economy, by supercar standards, is excellent.