Porsche has reached an agreement to join forces with fellow German Audi to develop the next-generation mid-engined Cayman and Boxster. Audi will get its own version called R4, an entry-level mid-engined coupe and roadster. While rumors about an R4 broke months ago, its connection to the next-gen Boxster was not known.
According to Car, Audi intends to have a full line of R-model cars: starting at the top with an R10 supercar, based on the Le Mans-winning TDI diesel supercar; the R8 (including a convertible variant of the next generation model); an R6 priced, powered and sized between Porsche’s 991 and Cayman/Boxster; and the aforementioned entry-level R4.
The next-generation Cayman and Boxster are known internally as Project 981 and they are due in 2010 or 2011. The Audi variants are expected to differ from the Porsche s by offering forced-induction four- and five-cylinder engines with quattro four wheel drive. The Porsches will retain the current rear wheel drive and boxer six-cylinder engine configuration.
The two vehicles are not expected to share any styling elements, although they are likely to get the same dual-clutch DSG transmission and light weight aluminum space frames.
What the R4 means to Audi’s freshly-redesigned TT coupe and convertible is uncertain. The TT is a front- or all-wheel drive sports car based on a much more mundane platform. The TT also keeps its motor in the front, not behind the seats. To an enthusiast, the two cars are night-and-day; but to the general buying public, the TT and R4 certainly look like internal competition.
