Audi updated their R15 for 2010 creating the R15 Plus. The 2010 regulations reduced the size of the air restrictors and turbocharger boost pressure although Audi’s engineers were still able to achieve engine power and performance that was comparable to the 2009 power plant.

Aerodynamic efficiency was also a major area of focus for 2010 and the front area of the car was redesigned and the front wheel arches were also lowered in an effort to reduce drag.

The 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans race got off to a tight start, with Peugeot occupying the top sports. Audi were able to match the pace of the Peugeot cars but worked with a different race strategy which pushed the Peugeots to the limit, resulting in three of the Peugeot cars experiencing engine problems during the later stage of the race.

The three Audis finished 1-2-3 with the winning car set not only a record 397 laps around Le Mans, but eclipsed the outright distance record (held since 1971) with a distance of 3,362.1 miles.

Record-breaking nine-times Le Mans winner, Tom Kristensen, finished the 2010 race in third place – his 10th podium finish at the French circuit in 11 years, and was our guest at the Annual Motoring Dinner on Thursday 23 February 2017.

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Car displayed courtesy of Audi UK from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 February 2017.