The Audi R8 V10 Manual represents one of the most significant performance cars of its era, bringing together Audi's quattro engineering expertise with a naturally aspirated V10 engine derived from the same family of powerplants found in Lamborghini's contemporary supercars.

When launched, the original R8 established Audi as a serious contender in the supercar market, combining exotic performance and dramatic styling with the everyday usability and build quality for which the marque is renowned.

This 2009 example, finished in Brilliant Red, is particularly appealing for its combination of the potent 5.2-litre V10 and the increasingly sought-after six-speed gated manual transmission.

In an era when automated dual-clutch gearboxes have become the norm, the manual R8 offers a more involving and traditional driving experience, with its exposed metal gear gate providing a wonderfully tactile connection between driver and machine.

Combining quattro all-wheel drive, a sensational naturally...