Real world running costs... TTRS vs R8

[1781cc]

Looking for insights from members who have experience of either car to give an insight into real world running costs, potential pitfalls, etc...

The two I am considering are vastly different price wise, so here is some context: I have broken my track car and selling off all the pieces, selling the trailer and aiming for something that I can do the occasional track day with, doesn't have to be the fastest, most hardcore thing around, its more about keeping my driving sharp and exploring the car's potential 3-4 times a year (ie, pads and tyres, I've done the whole stripping, buckets, roll cage, slicks thing for the last 9 years!).

Option 1: MK2 TTRS - bought with funds from previous track car/trailer

Option 2: R8 V8 - bought with funds mentioned above, plus funds from the sale of my 2018 VW Amarok (if I decide not to keep it)

Thanks

[Terminator X]

I'll start just to get the R8 crowd riled up isn't the TTRS just a mini R8. Looks the same, just as fast etc.

TX.

[Dr G]

TT RS is a reasonably stout thing; easy to address a few common weakpoints and upgrades well-documented.

R8; you will fix more things than you upgrade. Even low miles, well-maintained cars benefit a healthy annual budget to stay on top of stuff. Nothing on an R8 costs less than a grand (this isn't a joke).

[1781cc]

Dr G said:

TT RS is a reasonably stout thing; easy to address a few common weakpoints and upgrades well-documented.

R8; you will fix more things than you upgrade. Even low miles, well-maintained cars benefit a healthy annual budget to stay on top of stuff. Nothing on an R8 costs less than a grand (this isn't a joke).

I suspected as much with this, it is exotica, I am erring towards the TTRS because theres a lot about the platform I can spanner myself, I also am working on the assumption of people cutting corners with the R8 as they get older, hence trying to work out real world costs.

[fantheman80]

Much easier to tune an TTRS and I like them a lot.....but I know which one Id look twice at out on the road

[CG2020UK]

No knowledge or advice on this area unfortunately. Very keen however to see what those who do have to say.

Maybe in my head the way you would do it if you really wanted the R8 is to buy it with maybe a shorter term few on ownership and just enjoy it. First time it becomes too much or causes you worries just trade it in and go the TTRS.

[OzzyR1]

No experience of those particular cars, but in your shoes I'd probably go for the TT.

The R8 may look more striking, but you'd be buying an older car with more miles & potential for some big bills if things go wrong.
Even if all is well, components will reach their recommended age/mile lifespan in the next few years & replacement won't come cheap.

Mkii TTRS would be newer, less mileage and substantially cheaper, both to run and service.

You mention track days - would you be looking for a manual?

If your budget stretches, I would consider the TTRS+ - limited UK sales run in both auto and even more-so in manual.

In a few years, I think a well-looked after TTRS+ will become sought after due to rarity & possible you wouldn't lose much on today's price when selling.

Something like this, one of 42nr manual TTRS+ sold in the UK & appears to have been cared for:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202401235...

Edited by OzzyR1 on Saturday 9th March 00:22

[Dr G]

1781cc said:

I suspected as much with this, it is exotica, I am erring towards the TTRS because theres a lot about the platform I can spanner myself, I also am working on the assumption of people cutting corners with the R8 as they get older, hence trying to work out real world costs.

Neglect and under-maintenance (as well as under-use) are commonplace. Low mileage, and "full Audi history" mean basically nothing.