REVIEW: Kengfai Audi R8 V10 Spyder • DiecastSociety.com

REVIEW: Kengfai Audi R8 V10 Spyder

Owning three Kengfai models, all Audis, it only seemed fitting to include another Audi in the collection, and that’s none other than their latest release, the Audi R8 2nd generation Type 4S Spyder. Kengfai also offers the hardtop version with a variety of exterior options. My previous review for DiecastSociety.com focused on their attempt at the Audi RS7 Sportback, and I must say, Kengfai consistently goes the extra mile, going beyond the typical metal and opening features to include those “little” elements like gas cap access and a removable engine cover. Does the Audi R8 Spyder measure up to their high standards?

The ideal exterior choice, in my opinion, is the White with a Red interior option, although alternatives in Grey or Black are available. There’s something undeniably appealing about White cars with Red interiors, especially when it’s an Audi. Out of the box, this model stands out admirably, and kudos to Kengfai for capturing the overall shape and design so well. The paintwork is impeccable, complete with the pearl effect found in the White paint. Carbon fibre accents adorn various exterior components, such as the small winglets on the lower bumpers, mirrors, side blades, and rear upper spoiler.

The model impressively comes equipped with a removable roof. It’s a simple piece of moulded plastic, with the rear featuring clear plastic mimicking glass, complete with heating elements. This attention to detail is commendable. As for fitment, it may not be flawless, but let’s be honest, most collectors won’t display the car with the roof piece on, so that’s a minor issue. Consequently, there are only a limited number of photos featuring the roof. Speaking of fitment, this metal and fully accessible replica excels in terms of shutlines and panel gaps.

Moving to the front end, Kengfai deserves credit for capturing most, if not all, of the intricate details. As previously mentioned, the lower winglets on the spoiler are beautifully rendered in carbon fibre. Even the little intake on the inner side of the headlights is faithfully recreated. The only slight miss here is the absence of perforated grilles; they are solid mesh instead.

Access to the front storage compartment is provided here, showcasing the Audi four rings emblem on the hood. While there’s no decal but an embedded emblem on the hood, the overall aesthetic might leave some room for improvement. A true emblem would have been the optimal choice.

Inside, the attention to detail is above average, with true struts on either side, a fully flocked storage area, and OEM badges on either side of the lower outer sections. The operation of the hood itself works seamlessly.

The upper rear section of the car is undoubtedly its best angle. I admire how Audi designers integrate the functional side of the roof with access to the motor components. In the model, this is the only area where you’ll find perforated grilles, integrated into the functional rear deck. Note that the gas gap on the passenger side is non-functional.

Opening the hatch is effortless, thanks to the two small struts inside. Intakes are present, and some carbon fibre detailing is noticeable on the rear elements. The motor itself provides a semi-layered look, a commendable effort indeed.

The rear end includes the Audi Sport plate in the center, with parking sensors integrated into the bumper. The lower diffuser is adorned with carbon fibre and exhibits decent detail on the exposed exhaust tips. However, the grille work here is completed with solid mesh, falling short in comparison.

I must say I absolutely adore the OEM wheel option chosen by Kengfai (apologies for not knowing the official Audi name). It’s my favourite part of the model. These wheels complement the car’s lines and aggressive nature perfectly, with their semi-polished face and accompanying braking equipment. Kengfai may have been a bit generous with the low-profile tires (without branding), but their overall stance is undeniably aggressive.  What is not at the same level is the feel and quality of the overall suspension, it feels cheap, for lack of a better word.  Flimsy might be a better word to describe, as this may prove fragile for long-term display.

Turning to the interior, it is just as impressive, if not more so, than the exterior. The rich Red seats, center console, and door cards significantly enhance the model’s allure. The door cards, in particular, feature an impressive level of detail, while the dash elements could have been improved. Fabric seat belts and flocking contribute to the overall final look of the interior, although there are no additional features such as movable seats or accessible storage compartments.

In summary, the KengFai Audi R8 V10 Spyder paints a compelling picture of the actual car. However, upon closer inspection of the finer details, it falls slightly short of past successes. Don’t get me wrong; Kengfai delivers an enticing model, thanks to the exceptional paint, the attractive Red interior, and those stunning, massive wheels.  Enjoy the pictures!

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6 Responses to "REVIEW: Kengfai Audi R8 V10 Spyder"

  1. Vin says:

    Nice car. Not quite AR level but still a pretty solid effort. Pricing generally seems to be a match for AR tho. But in any case this is fantastic colour combo. I have this exact replica also by Kengfai but in 1:64 scale. They impressed on that one too.

  2. Jelle says:

    Thanks for the review. I do find the model attractive.
    Just as a complementary note, in favour of the model:
    The grilles on the real model aren’t perforated either. Since it’s a mid-engined car, it doesn’t require much cooling on the front.

    • DS Team says:

      “The grilles on the real model aren’t perforated either. Since it’s a mid-engined car, it doesn’t require much cooling on the front.”

      Yes, agree. But there are elements that remain open to allow cooling brakes side and aid in additional aero,

      • Jelle says:

        Oh, yes, I see now. Would have been nice to see it with openings, Would be interesting to know how hard it would be to produce something like that.

  3. Dandy says:

    The obvious elephant in the room: no functional cover for the soft top is a no-no on a Spyder with such prominently long cover…

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