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Driving skills training

Of course, Audi is not making this offer lightly. In fact, there is news: the Audi Driving Experience is coming to Zandvoort. Previously, these driving skills training sessions (read: enjoy driving sporty models and learn something from them as well) were held at the TT Circuit in Assen, but the desire arose to hold these training sessions on a circuit that is really meant for cars. Now it is here and we get to take a “lesson”.

A good start

It’s already off to a good start. The weather forecast for today was “fair,” but as I drive through the gates of Circuit Zandvoort, the sun is shining brightly and it is about twelve degrees. There is a fairly brisk breeze, but otherwise conditions are optimal for a track day.

Just a little longer and a wish will come true for me. Although I am not a hardcore motorsports fan, it is on the wish list to drive on a circuit myself one day. That the circuit in question is now also Circuit Zandvoort, a circuit that every car enthusiast has something to do with, whether you are a hardcore motorsports fan or not, is a very nice bonus.

First some theory

Of course, we don’t go out on the track completely unprepared. The program begins with a briefing and some theory. The ideal sitting position behind the wheel, for example, with the legs slightly bent and the arms at a 90-degree angle. How to hold the handlebars, with hands at quarter to three. All the time. You can basically drive the entire circuit with no more than a quarter turn in, so overpacking is not necessary. Finally, driving the ideal line on the track. From outside to inside to outside, in this case being helped by pylons along the track.

On the job

After the brief theoretical briefing, it’s time to pick out a helmet and hit the track. The Audi R8, however, will have to wait a little longer. For those with little track experience, including yours truly, another car is on hand first: the Audi RS e-tron GT. Huh? Which, with a system output of 440 kW (600 hp – and even 475 kW/646 hp in overboost) is if possible even more powerful than the Audi R8. Why Audi still sees the RS e-tron GT as the “entry-level car” and not the RS3 Sportback that is also ready here, you can read here.

Each participant will receive his or her own Audi RS e-tron GT. All of us ride in a train behind the instructor, who assumes the role of pace car and gives tips via walkie-talkie. We drive some laps to get to know the track. Exactly where the ideal line is, and perhaps more importantly, where the braking points are. In the process, the pace continues to build each lap, until the instructor trusts me and the other participants to really pace the car.

Finally switching to the R8

Then, after a short break, it really stood before me: the Audi R8 V10 Coupe. Wow. Generally, I am more of the American sleds, but such an R8 is also high on the personal wish list. That there is now “just” one waiting for me and that I can also take it to the track is a second dream come true. Less than half an hour after the previous one.

Once crawled behind the wheel – despite the helmet just touching the roof – the ideal seating position is quickly found. Then the big red start button may be pressed. With a growl, the V10 comes to life. Even at idle, the R8 continues to growl a bit, as if grumbling that it had to wait. Then that’s it, we hit the road.

Goosebumps

Since I and the other participants have gained some track experience with the RS e-tron GT by now, the R8 allows the pace to be set right away. As the revs climb, the growl of the 5.2-liter V10 turns into a rough scream, which soon turns into a piercing howl. Despite my fondness for the American V8, very little beats the sound of this V10. It is unfortunate that the racing helmet muffles the sound somewhat, but still: goosebumps!

Like on rails

With an output of 419 kW (570 hp), it’s not nothing you’re on the road with, yet the Audi R8 allows itself to be piloted around the track with considerable ease. Okay, at the Audi Driving Experience we don’t push the limit, but the pace is definitely there. Four-wheel drive, traction control, ABS and ESP help too, of course, but the Audi R8 seems to ride on rails, so tightly does it steer through corners. It does exactly what you want and you feel one with the car. Between those turns, the straights again have room for a sprint. I am pressed into the seat and the V10 cries it out again: goosebumps again. Gas release is regularly rewarded with sporty thuds and prattles from the fist-thick exhaust pipes. Delicious.

Unfortunately, everything comes to an end. Also on the ride with the Audi R8. Too bad, but at the same time, I’m long overjoyed that I got to drive it at Circuit Zandvoort. It was full enjoyment, turn after turn. I was able to cross two things off my automobile bucket list in one afternoon. Two things that I really hadn’t dared hope would happen on somewhat short notice.

Want to drive an Audi R8 V10 yourself?

Would you like to drive an Audi R8 V10 yourself sometime? So you can! There are several variations of the Audi Driving Experience. We participated in the Sportscar Experience, where you get to drive the Audi RS3 Sportback, Audi R8 V10 and Audi RS e-tron GT. Besides at Circuit Zandvoort, this experience can also be booked at the Spa-Francorchamps racetracks, the Nürburgring, Bilster Berg Drive Resort and the Red Bull Ring. That would include hotel stays. Prices start at 1,295 euros for the experience at Circuit Zandvoort. So not cheap, but you get an unforgettable experience in return.