Dan’s 2011 Gated 6 Speed V10 Audi R8

Step 1: Engine removal

Pulling the engine out of a car like the Audi R8 isn’t just another day in the shop—it’s a process that requires precision and experience. The 5.2L Lamborghini V10 is the heart of this car, and getting it out means removing the rear subframe, dismantling the suspension components, and carefully detaching the engine and transmission from their mounts.

This isn’t just about taking parts off—it’s about preserving the integrity of the engine and surrounding systems so that everything goes back together perfectly. Removing the engine also gives us the space to work on custom-fabricated components like the headers and exhaust while preparing the engine for the supercharger install.

The R8’s mid-engine layout means tight quarters and complex engineering, so every step is planned and executed meticulously. One wrong move here can mean costly repairs or delays, but at Lakeview Automotive, this is what we specialize in—precision and efficiency to make sure the job is done right the first time.

Step 2: Custom Headers and Exhaust

This step was all about craftsmanship, led by our mastermind fabricator, Sam. Dan wanted something unique, and Sam delivered with a fully custom exhaust setup that’s both functional and beautiful.

• 10 Individual Header Pipes: Each of the V10’s cylinders got its own custom stainless-steel header pipe. Sam hand-fitted every pipe with precision, optimizing flow and creating a unique exhaust note. Every weld and bend reflects hours of meticulous work.
• Heat-Treated Stainless Steel: To ensure durability and heat resistance, the headers were heat-treated after fabrication, making them capable of handling the extreme heat of a supercharged V10 without compromise.
• Bespoke Exhaust System: The headers feed into a custom exhaust system designed by Sam, complete with valve control. It stays refined and quiet for the street but roars to life on the track—a perfect balance of performance and practicality.

Sam’s craftsmanship shines through in every detail, turning Dan’s R8 into a showpiece of engineering and sound. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a statement of quality and precision.

Step 3: VF Engineering VF750 Supercharger Kit

With the custom exhaust complete, it was time to boost the power of the 5.2L V10 with the VF Engineering VF750 Supercharger Kit. Specifically designed for the Audi R8, this kit delivers massive power gains while maintaining OEM-level integration and reliability.

Key Features of the VF750 Kit:

• Massive Power Gains: Boosts the R8 from 525 BHP and 391 TQ to 750 BHP and 523 TQ—a 43% increase.
• OEM-Level Integration: Fits seamlessly into the R8’s drivetrain for smooth, reliable operation.
• Water-to-Air Intercooler: Keeps intake temperatures low for consistent performance under high load.

Installing the VF750 supercharger elevated Dan's R8’s performance to modern supercar territory, providing explosive power while retaining drivability. Whether on the track or the street, the VF750 ensures the R8 performs at its best.