R8 Clubsport running costs

[AbarthChris]

Hi All,

New poster (I think!) to this section of the forum, but I've been living in Melbourne for a year now, and I've just applied for another 4 year 457 visa, so time to think about getting a car!

I keep changing my mind as to what I want, whether to go for a ute for mountain biking, or to get a V8 to enjoy whilst I can. (would have to have a towbar for the bikes)

I was wondering what the running costs of an R8 would be like? It wouldnt be a daily, as I'd be either on public transport or flying to client site for work. I'd use it a weekends for going away in, and for heading to the hills riding.

What should I look out for and can you guys recommend any other options?

looking at $25k-ish...

thanks!

[AbarthChris]

motomk said:

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

Which R8? VZ or VE?
The HSV specific stuff is the exy stuff, ie the bumper bars, trim, badges etc.
Mechanicals are ok, as the Holden Commodore SS is essentially the same underneath.

A VE, would have to be the first iteration of the E...

I've read that thread, it doesnt say much about actually running them though, and not the R8 in particular!

Thanks though!

[AbarthChris]

Cheers!

So apart from the HSV specific running bits like the brakes, is the rest of the drivetrain all standard SS?

What are they like for reliability?

[AbarthChris]

Bibbs said:

I've been running a VE GTS for about a year now.

Costs :-
$900 insurance
$600 rego
$600 full service (engine, gearbox, diff and brake fluids done).
$200 new brake pads

I'm looking at tyres for about $800 (245/275 - 20") soon.
Apart from that, I just fill the tank when empty and pay the speeding fines when they arrive.

I think the brakes and MRC shock will be expensive when I come to replace them.

Cheers Bibbs, thats helpful!

Stefan - I saw your thread about your VXR8, did you decide not to ship it in the end?

[AbarthChris]

Jader1973 said:

If you are tossing up between a Ute and a V8, why not get a V8 Ute? Assuming you don't need 4 seats that is.

Personally, I'd get a Holden rather than an HSV - there are Series 2 (2011 on) SS utes and sedans available for 25k. Series 2 sport spec (SS/SV6) have a better interior, better audio etc than Series 1 cars.

Thanks Jader. I ideally want 4 seats, as I want to be able to use 1 car to take bikes and people away.

I'm going to try some SSV's too, to see if the difference is worth it. I do like the looks of the R8's though!