R8 v10 - Do I / Don't I
Discussion
Prices have been very stable for a couple of years; the new model is expensive too so I don't imagine they'll drop much if any further. The reputation for reliability, that they still look fresh and that their running costs are on this planet have made a very good name for the R8.
They don't have the instant sledge hammer shove a 996 turbo does but the V10 when strung out is still seriously rapid and a very exciting engine to work hard. Small details inside are starting to date now but overall the cabin is still lovely, particularly when equipped with a few goodies (although standard V10 spec is actually quite good).
Mechanically they're very strong but clutch life (both manual and R-Tronic) is entirely dependent on use, they can really get through brakes and tyres if exercised and the magnetic dampers are not particularly durable (as well as being expensive). They chip up very quickly so expect cosmetic paintwork and the wheels are easily kerbed; the diamond cut finish is expensive to repair properly but it can be done. They look rubbish when painted black. Run away from anything currently wrapped.
There are a fair few owners around here who I'm sure can add to that as well.
They don't have the instant sledge hammer shove a 996 turbo does but the V10 when strung out is still seriously rapid and a very exciting engine to work hard. Small details inside are starting to date now but overall the cabin is still lovely, particularly when equipped with a few goodies (although standard V10 spec is actually quite good).
Mechanically they're very strong but clutch life (both manual and R-Tronic) is entirely dependent on use, they can really get through brakes and tyres if exercised and the magnetic dampers are not particularly durable (as well as being expensive). They chip up very quickly so expect cosmetic paintwork and the wheels are easily kerbed; the diamond cut finish is expensive to repair properly but it can be done. They look rubbish when painted black. Run away from anything currently wrapped.
There are a fair few owners around here who I'm sure can add to that as well.
Just made the swap myself from 997.1 Turbo (Manual) to a V10 Spyder Flappy Paddle.
Had the car about 3 weeks now, few niggles which the garage are sorting (OSF Mag Ride gone)
First impressions are its quick, very quick. Quicker i feel than my 997 Turbo - Mainly down to the gear changes and being able to get away from the line a lot quicker. Took it to Vmax two weeks ago and it launches so quickly and keeps going to 190+ with ease.
It feels big, but its actually very nimble and easy to maneuver around A&B roads - Suspension can be a bit harsh, but the Quattro is very sure footed out of the corners under power.
Picked up a puncture om the way back from Vmax - so took the opportunity to change all 4 tyres £850.00 fitted for them - which was cheaper than the Turbo's tyres but pretty much the same sizes.
That Howl when you get on it is something special that V10's are renowned for, looks good too in
Suzuka Grey!
Annoying bits:
The Audi Music Interface is a bit dated for a 2011 car and I will be changing it.
Boot space - Very limited, the Porsche was a Tardis in comparison.
Spatial awareness in the rear quarters is limited with the roof up.
It feels more special than the Turbo, and you get a lot more attention in it (which can be annoying in traffic with people shouting (good) things at you!!
I don't regret not upgrading to a 997.II, and am loving the Audi !
Had the car about 3 weeks now, few niggles which the garage are sorting (OSF Mag Ride gone)
First impressions are its quick, very quick. Quicker i feel than my 997 Turbo - Mainly down to the gear changes and being able to get away from the line a lot quicker. Took it to Vmax two weeks ago and it launches so quickly and keeps going to 190+ with ease.
It feels big, but its actually very nimble and easy to maneuver around A&B roads - Suspension can be a bit harsh, but the Quattro is very sure footed out of the corners under power.
Picked up a puncture om the way back from Vmax - so took the opportunity to change all 4 tyres £850.00 fitted for them - which was cheaper than the Turbo's tyres but pretty much the same sizes.
That Howl when you get on it is something special that V10's are renowned for, looks good too in
Suzuka Grey!
Annoying bits:
The Audi Music Interface is a bit dated for a 2011 car and I will be changing it.
Boot space - Very limited, the Porsche was a Tardis in comparison.
Spatial awareness in the rear quarters is limited with the roof up.
It feels more special than the Turbo, and you get a lot more attention in it (which can be annoying in traffic with people shouting (good) things at you!!
I don't regret not upgrading to a 997.II, and am loving the Audi !
Dr G said:
Great shout for a quick interim solution - still a dated system though 
I've had my V10 coupe for about 6 months and the comments by Dr G and Hughsie above are very accurate.
Coming from a Porsche to start with the R8 will feel big and wide but after a while it will shrink around you. The 4wd is pleasantly rear biased and the car has a lovely balance.
The interior gets a bit of stick for not being special enough and it's not special (like a Lambo for example) but is well put together. I drove a few cars and specifically got a car with extended leather as the dash does look a bit cheap in standard plastic in my opinion.
I'm quite surprised how much positive attention the car gets which is fine with me but some people may not like it.
Coming from a Porsche to start with the R8 will feel big and wide but after a while it will shrink around you. The 4wd is pleasantly rear biased and the car has a lovely balance.
The interior gets a bit of stick for not being special enough and it's not special (like a Lambo for example) but is well put together. I drove a few cars and specifically got a car with extended leather as the dash does look a bit cheap in standard plastic in my opinion.
I'm quite surprised how much positive attention the car gets which is fine with me but some people may not like it.
vanman1936 said:
Hughesie - NICE motor, how are you finding the R-Tronic, I am probably going to get an earlier 65k car, not sure if manual or RT is the better option...? Live in London btw.
I Like the Rtronic, but lets be honest, its poor at slow speeds.I was in London with it Saturday and Sunday, with really slow moving traffic on the A40 on Saturday (backed up all the way from the BBC to Park Royal) and it behaved itself, its a bit grabby when cold or in really poor traffic, you just need to be smooth on the accelerator I've found - leave a bit of a gap and try to not to keep up with every foot of movement from the car in front.
The latter cars Stronic is a step on again with the double clutch, but the RT is great on the move !
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