R8 Feedback, a year in to ownership of a used gen1

R8 Feedback, a year in to ownership of a used gen1

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NewNameNeeded

Original Poster:

2,560 posts

224 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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So a year ago this week I treated myself to a pretty extravagant 40th birthday present as my (almost) daily driver. I'd lusted after owning a V8 since falling in love with cars. And as anyone who's turned 40 will know there's a lot of internalising about how you're doing against your life goals.

Also about a year ago there was a discussion on here about the R8 as a daily driver, and how ruineous it would be! At the time I promised to report back , so here goes, for those interested:

Show me the money
Let’s start with the costs. One year of ownership and about 6,000 miles has cost £2,250 (a health check, 4 new tyres, replacement rear brake light and a £875 service) plus road tax and insurance costing £1,100 combined, plus fuel which I’d estimate has cost an eye-watering £2,300. So £5,650 all in. I’m clutching to the fact that’s less than £1 a mile, but it’s obviously a good chunk of money. And that’s without anything major needing replacing. The tyres I actually couldn’t find cheaper than the price Audi quoted. The rear brake light replacement was something like £230 and I felt Audi weaselled their way out of this being covered under the used approved warranty. It was a bit of a grey area that for the sake of £230 would have created immense brand loyalty and goodwill, that they missed by a country mile.

High running and maintenance costs are thankfully offset by very little depreciation over the last year. So overall, it’s probably been cheaper to run than if I’d picked up a brand new A3, which would lose a lot of value over the first few years.


No problems as a daily driver
Some of you would argue 6,000 miles in a year is hardly a daily driver. And I do have use of another car. But the term 'daily driver' for me is as much about how easily it could be used daily - not that you necessarily would.

Anyways, I think the R8 excels in this area. For a wide, low supercar/sports car (won't get in to that debate) it remains an easy daily driver. Visibility is good, there is no scraping over bumps/ramps/inclines if taken at sensible speeds. I had more issues getting a MK1 TTR over bumps than I have had with the R8 – the front splitter gives great clearance for this type of car, and none of the horror stories I’ve heard around Gallardos and the need for front-lift for speed bumps, car parks and driveways. There were a number of videos on YouTube with owners saying they had to plan their routes in advance to make sure the roads were compatible - rubbish. It's an easy car to drive through town, or down country lanes. It's manoeuvrable at low speeds, and easy to place when parking. Rear parking camera is superb. Go easy on the peddle and it feels more like 200BHP than 430BHP, and power delivery is smooth however heavy you are on the peddle, making it a civilised car to drive when you need it to be. It’s wide, and the doors are wide, and I’m pretty wide too – so you do have to think a little about parking spaces, but it has never stopped me from going somewhere or being able to park once I got there. No different to other big cars like Rangies.

It is thirsty though. Especially if you keep it a gear or two lower than it needs to be, to keep it in its peak power range and to get a howl from the engine. I’ve maybe averaged mid-teens. So get used to filling it up.


Sense of occasion
Time and familiarity with the car obviously means it doesn't feel quite as special as it did. But I still get exciting at the thought of taking it for a drive, I still take the long/fun route from A to B, it still makes me look back everytime I’m walking away from it. Dropping down low in to the seat feels great, and purposeful. It sets the mood for the drive you're about to have. The sound of the V8 remains something wonderful. More subtle, but (for me) far more special than trick exhausts on smaller engines. I love the ‘stealth’ look (mine is black with a dark grey sideblade) – but admit that pretty much any colour makes the car look more special (and easier/better to photograph!). I also think the R8 is a thing of beauty - far, far more so than the latest design (and it's recently revealed facelift). I think the design has aged very well.


Dealership experiene
The car was bought from the Audi used approved network and so has been looked after by Audi dealerships. They’ve been ok, but no stand out service. No more special than I experienced owning Toyotas or Peugeots. The dealership experience alone has created no brand loyalty to Audi, and indeed their weaseling out of replacing the rear brake light under the warranty is a grey area and, I think, showed a flaw with franchised dealerships. Audi UK don't appear to have any clout with how the dealerships behave - at least not from what I saw. And I escalated it to the executive customer service team within Audi UK. That aside the rest of the time they've been perfectly ok - nice coffees, prompt attention from their team when booked in for a service, etc. But no stand outs.


Reminders you’re driving something a bit different
Struggling to source a tyre and find anywhere local outside of the dealer network able to change a tyre reminds you the car is relatively low volume and relatively unique. Halfords, Kwik-Fit, Black Circles, F1 Autocentres and all the other usual suspects were all unable to help. Most didn't have the Audi-rated version of the tyre I needed in their ordering systems. And as far as I am aware not all Audi dealerships are set up to service the R8 (they need to be Audi Sport centres), and I have struggled to find good local independents familiar with the R8.


Community
Great online community via both r8talk.com and R8 owners club on Facebook, but a shame (but not a surprise) that there is very little in the way of R8 owners meets. I’m jealous of friends with Porsches and the incredibly active clubs, but obviously there are a few more 911s on the road than there are R8s. And just a little bit more history!


Public reaction
This was one of my biggest concerns. I don’t like standing out. So I’d no desire to own this car to say “look at me, look at me”. It nearly put me off. I'm pleased to say that whilst the car does get noticed, it has only been in a positive way. I’m surprised by how many non-petrolheads know what it is, when they wouldn’t have a clue what model of Ferrari had just driven past. Public reaction has only been positive – I’ve had countless conversations at petrol stations with folk wanting to know a bit about the car, and no issues in traffic or being let out at junctions. Kids pointing and shouting "that's an R8" is lovely. It's been a constant reminder of how lucky I am to be able to own a car like this.

Interestingly the car gets very little interest or enthusiasm at car meets, which I don’t mind – I’d rather spend the time looking around everyone elses cars than talking about my own - but whilst the general public seem quite interested in it (and know what it is) the car community seems less interested. Not sure why that is?


What next
And here's the weirdest thing I've come across through owning this car. I've no halo car to move on to. And whilst that should be really awesome, it's also really weird. I can't remember any time since being in to cars that I've been in that position. Aside from a Defender or 964 (with no rationale explanations for either), I can't think of a single model out there that draws me back to the classifieds to drool over. My hours spent on Autotrader have literally fizzled to nothing!

I've absolutely no idea what I'd move to. I don't like the V10, a Ferarri or Lambo would not offer me more of anything I currently feel I am missing, I don't want a 'sensible' hatchback/saloon/estate, no matter how quick, have no desire to lose a load of cash through depreciation.

So for now, I'm "stuck" with the R8. Not a bad place to be and something I'd wholeheartedly recommend for your own midlife crisis biggrin


Trev450

6,314 posts

171 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Good write-up and nice to hear of your positive experiences related to R8 ownership. I am also about two years into the ownership of mine and generally agree with everything you've said, but with one or two caveats. The tyre sourcing issue and Audi dealership experience are both of course a consequence of having an extended warranty. I have purchased an after market warranty and as such, therefore, am not limited to using the dealer network or having to fit Audi approved tyres. Instead, I can use whoever I wish to service/maintain the car (RE Performance in my case) and have had no problem sourcing tyres from the likes of Tyre Leader, Blackcircles, etc.for my prefered choice which is MPS 4S.

I would be interested to hear why you state that you 'don't like the V10'.

NewNameNeeded

Original Poster:

2,560 posts

224 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Trev450 said:
... I have purchased an after market warranty ...
I would be interested to hear why you state that you 'don't like the V10'.
Which policy did you go for please? And any experience of how good/bad it is? I'll be shopping around for something.

RE: tyres - you're right. I chose to stick with P Zeroes, which seem to be like marmite. I've found them to be pretty good, so was keen to get the Audi-rated version. I did finally source them, and my local alloy refurber fitted free of charge.

Heard a lot of great things about RE Performance - just too far away for me, I think. But will check them out.

As for the V10 - just personal choice. I don't feel the need for more power so that's no reason to upgrade, the V10 doesn't have any additional toys I'm missing in the V8, I much prefer the sound of the stock-V8 to the stock-V10, and I prefer the small styling differences on the V8 to the V10 (prefer my alloys, my exhausts).

Trev450

6,314 posts

171 months

Friday 26th October 2018
quotequote all
NewNameNeeded said:
Trev450 said:
... I have purchased an after market warranty ...
I would be interested to hear why you state that you 'don't like the V10'.
Which policy did you go for please? And any experience of how good/bad it is? I'll be shopping around for something.

RE: tyres - you're right. I chose to stick with P Zeroes, which seem to be like marmite. I've found them to be pretty good, so was keen to get the Audi-rated version. I did finally source them, and my local alloy refurber fitted free of charge.

Heard a lot of great things about RE Performance - just too far away for me, I think. But will check them out.

As for the V10 - just personal choice. I don't feel the need for more power so that's no reason to upgrade, the V10 doesn't have any additional toys I'm missing in the V8, I much prefer the sound of the stock-V8 to the stock-V10, and I prefer the small styling differences on the V8 to the V10 (prefer my alloys, my exhausts).
I went to Warranty Direct as a result of positive feedback on this forum. I fortunately haven't had cause to use them yet, but the comments from those who have was what convinced me. You can get an online quotation from their website and you have the option of selecting full or partial component cover, parts contribution and capped/uncapped labour rate.

The Michelins are a massive step up from P Zero's in all aspects.

I'm 2 hours away from RE Performance but would still use him if it was double that.

Fair comment regarding your preference for a V8. It would be very boring if we were all the same.

PompeyReece

1,484 posts

88 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Nice write up, fair and sensible assessment and agree with pretty much everything you're written.

Had mine for nearly 2 years and touch wood, I've had to replace one possible failing sensor in over 6,000 miles of driving - apart from that she's been rock solid and that's with 40,000 miles on the clock.

On insurance, have a look at Admiral - I have two cars (daily driver and the weekend R8) and they dramatically reduced my premiums with a dual policy.

I agree on the events, bit lacking is the R8 community but then again Porsches are more common so it's to be expected!

Ferruccio

1,832 posts

118 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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I have to say that in my experience Audi dealerships seem to be getting ever more pompous.
Your sorting out my car; I’m not making an appointment to see The Queen at Balmoral.

Fast Eddie

412 posts

244 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Yup, agree with all that particularly the pretty poor service from the main agent who constantly insisted they had a Master Technician servicing the car every time it went in.
Won't bore you with the details but suffice it to say after something like 11 VAG cars I have bought my first ever BMW.
Son has just changed RS4 for Mercedes.
Shame, they are killing the brand,
Styling is now bland also imo

Having said that, I enjoyed the R8 and you have made a fine choice

Superleg48

1,524 posts

132 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Great write up OP. I like reading about ownership experiences over time.

I would say that I have a Gallardo and have never encountered a speed hump that has required me to use the nose lift in 8000 miles of driving, so not sure where these “horror stories” come from.

I am sure something will come to mind for your next car in due course...in the meantime, just keep enjoying the car!

hajaba123

1,302 posts

174 months

Friday 26th October 2018
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Great review, thank you.

Where are the pictures????

andy97

4,691 posts

221 months

Saturday 27th October 2018
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I am constantly thinking of buying an R8 so this is a great write up, but I need to convince myself to sell an original Quattro first and I just can't, yet!

As for events/ meets, how about joining the "quattro owners club"? Any Audi 4wd car is eligible. And I know of 3 R8 owners in the midlands region of the club alone.

Most regions hold monthly socials and there will be trips out or day drives depending on which region you are in, as well as attendance/ stands at the NEC Classic Car show, ADI or the Rally Day. I am currently in Scotland with 17 quattro owners (11 original quattros and 6 other Audis from Q5 to A4TDi) driving round some fantastic scenery and roads, and staying in a hotel for 3 nights.

It would be great to see some R8 owners join.

James_B

12,642 posts

256 months

Saturday 27th October 2018
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NewNameNeeded said:
Which policy did you go for please? And any experience of how good/bad it is? I'll be shopping around for something.

RE: tyres - you're right. I chose to stick with P Zeroes, which seem to be like marmite. I've found them to be pretty good, so was keen to get the Audi-rated version. I did finally source them, and my local alloy refurber fitted free of charge.

Heard a lot of great things about RE Performance - just too far away for me, I think. But will check them out.

As for the V10 - just personal choice. I don't feel the need for more power so that's no reason to upgrade, the V10 doesn't have any additional toys I'm missing in the V8, I much prefer the sound of the stock-V8 to the stock-V10, and I prefer the small styling differences on the V8 to the V10 (prefer my alloys, my exhausts).
That’s interesting. I absolutely loved my V8 but it was noticeable that it was slower than the sensibl family car in a straight line.

I now love my V10 Plus, but do miss how the V8 handled and rode the bumps.

anonymous-user

53 months

Saturday 27th October 2018
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I had a V8 R8 for about 18 months. It was a wonderful ownership experience -‘positive feedback from everyone and cost me a total of around £2,000.

Overall the best and cheapest car I’ve owned.

sideways sid

1,371 posts

214 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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James_B said:
That’s interesting. I absolutely loved my V8 but it was noticeable that it was slower than the sensibl family car in a straight line.

I now love my V10 Plus, but do miss how the V8 handled and rode the bumps.
Would you be able to expand on ownership of the V10 versus the V8 please?

If you were advising someone considering their first (used) R8, would you recommend a V10, or a newer/lower mileage V8?

PompeyReece

1,484 posts

88 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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sideways sid said:
James_B said:
That’s interesting. I absolutely loved my V8 but it was noticeable that it was slower than the sensibl family car in a straight line.

I now love my V10 Plus, but do miss how the V8 handled and rode the bumps.
Would you be able to expand on ownership of the V10 versus the V8 please?

If you were advising someone considering their first (used) R8, would you recommend a V10, or a newer/lower mileage V8?
Personally I think it depends on you and where you’re coming from/heading.

If like me the R8 will be your first ever super/sports car and/or you’re not sure where your ownership will take you, that this could be your only dip in the exotic market, the v8 is a great first step.

However if you’re well experienced with supercars, have owned them before and know you’re heading for more exotic things, the V10 is the way to go IMHO.

James_B

12,642 posts

256 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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sideways sid said:
Would you be able to expand on ownership of the V10 versus the V8 please?

If you were advising someone considering their first (used) R8, would you recommend a V10, or a newer/lower mileage V8?
The R8 felt a bit dated inside, especially the tech, but was a great car to drive. On adjustable dampers on the softer setting is had a wonderfully compliant ride, and the engine sounded wonderful,

It had the non-bucket seats, which detracted from the overall feel, and as I said above, did not feel massively fast. It was a wonderful car, though, and I’d really recommend it.

The V10 is heavier, and feels it. From 2013 it was better inside, with better tech, but the weight, to me, would have been a bit of an issue which is why I bought the Plus.

The only problem with the plus, actually, no, the two problems are that it’s a little too firm for UK roads and the fuel tank is too small. The V8 has more capacity, and a far better distance between fills

jakesmith

9,461 posts

170 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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PompeyReece said:
Personally I think it depends on you and where you’re coming from/heading.

If like me the R8 will be your first ever super/sports car and/or you’re not sure where your ownership will take you, that this could be your only dip in the exotic market, the v8 is a great first step.

However if you’re well experienced with supercars, have owned them before and know you’re heading for more exotic things, the V10 is the way to go IMHO.
Spot on & I am loving my V8 at the moment, came from a Maserati GT so V8 is a good bump up in power. Feels faster than my 997 C4S.
Love it

Trev450

6,314 posts

171 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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James_B said:
The R8 felt a bit dated inside, especially the tech, but was a great car to drive. On adjustable dampers on the softer setting is had a wonderfully compliant ride, and the engine sounded wonderful,

It had the non-bucket seats, which detracted from the overall feel, and as I said above, did not feel massively fast. It was a wonderful car, though, and I’d really recommend it.

The V10 is heavier, and feels it. From 2013 it was better inside, with better tech, but the weight, to me, would have been a bit of an issue which is why I bought the Plus.

The only problem with the plus, actually, no, the two problems are that it’s a little too firm for UK roads and the fuel tank is too small. The V8 has more capacity, and a far better distance between fills
To add a bit of perspective to this, the V10 is 60kgs heavier than the V8 and while that would be more obvious in a much lighter car, I for one can't feel it in a car of circa 1.5 tons. And for those that could, I'm fairly sure the additional 100bhp more than compensates in relation to the car's performance.

m4tti

5,426 posts

154 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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Trev450 said:
To add a bit of perspective to this, the V10 is 60kgs heavier than the V8 and while that would be more obvious in a much lighter car, I for one can't feel it in a car of circa 1.5 tons. And for those that could, I'm fairly sure the additional 100bhp more than compensates in relation to the car's performance.
And if it’s remapped and tweaked it’s about 170bhp more. It really is significantly quicker at this point.

James_B

12,642 posts

256 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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Trev450 said:
To add a bit of perspective to this, the V10 is 60kgs heavier than the V8 and while that would be more obvious in a much lighter car, I for one can't feel it in a car of circa 1.5 tons. And for those that could, I'm fairly sure the additional 100bhp more than compensates in relation to the car's performance.
For acceleration, yes, but the weight is there for braking too, and cornering. It’s like having a passenger, which most of us would likely feel.

barriejames

895 posts

178 months

Monday 29th October 2018
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I am also a year into my manual v10 and pleased to report nothing else has caught my attention in this price range. The car draws attention like nothing ive owned so cant agree with the original poster on that. Most good attention but some not so positive. Every drive out feels special but I limit my miles to around 3k per year to avoid it becoming mundane and routine