The base machine was the Audi R8, released to market in 2006. With a mid-mounted 4.2 litre V8 or 5.2 litre V10 engine and the quattro all-wheel drive system — which swept the rally world — this 2-seater super sports car was Audi's top model and attracted a great deal of attention.

The Audi R8 LMS was the model designed to follow the GT3 regulation. The major difference from the commercial model is that it has been changed from four-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive under FIA GT3 regulations. Even within strict regulations covering engine tuning, aerodynamic development, wheel base, and other dimensions, the Audi R8 LMS GT3 utilised the power of the V10 engine to over 500 hp and finely adjusted the suspension to compensate for the height of the centre of gravity with a heavy engine.

The Audi R8 LMS GT3 was successful in winning the Nürburgring 24-hour race in May 2015. An evolution model was announced in 2018, and the Audi R8 LMS GT3 continues with its further evolution.