WETTSTETTEN, Germany — Roland Mayer's Motoren Technik Mayer has released details on its powerful conversion of the Audi R8, and the firm is not messing around: The MTM R8 lays down a whopping 552 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque.Mayer started by adding an intercooled twin-screw supercharger and continued by upgrading the radiator, oil cooler and exhaust system. The remapped ECU helps Audi's flagship sports car achieve a 0-60-mph time of less than 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph.The exterior gets some attention as well, with a full MTM aero kit that includes a carbon-fiber front splitter, side skirts, diffuser and glass engine cover that helps to minimize heat soak. There are also plans for a lift-reducing rear spoiler, but MTM has not released details yet.A set of 20-inch MTM Bimoto wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires helps finish off the package. The only interior upgrade is a set of carbon-fiber sport seats. All these modifications add up to a price of $55,000 for the complete conversion.What this means to you: This tuned version should hold you over until Audi releases the more potent V10 R8. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent