The Audi R8: A Leap for Audi to Supercars

The OG supercar by Audi in 2006 had a lot going on when it came into the market. The Audi R8 had a mean-looking face with low aspects. Is it a supercar, though? That’s debatable, but as we ponder the stats and specs, it ticks all the boxes for a supercar. That is what you call the beauty of engineering by the Audi. They will turn, provide you with all the power and luxury, and let you decide their car’s category.

The R8 first generation was a production version of the Audi Le Mans concept in 2003. You’re not going to like how that car looked. Thankfully, they didn’t borrow its looks; instead, they borrowed the V8 with 4.2 Liters in capacity, and the cherry on top, it was naturally aspirated. We all know how it sounded. It was music to the ears and still is.

The Audi R8 is a midengined 2-seater sports car with a permanent all-drive system, something Audi likes to have in their vehicles.

The path that leads to Audi R8

The Audi R8 was based on the Le Mans concept version, designed by Frank and Julian, and it first appeared at the Geneva International Motor Show. That was in 2003. The road production version was launched in 2006 at the Auto Show in Paris.

The initial models included the R8 FSI 4.2 Liter V8 and the R8 5.2 Liter FSI V10. Both were coupes.

The first generation was introduced to the US in 2008.

Convertible versions included the Spyder, launched in 2008 and followed by a GT version in 2011.

The electric version of the R8 was also in the works simultaneously. It was named the e-Tron but reached production only when the second generation was introduced.

The R8 received a facelift in 2012 with a new model introduced to its category named the V10 Plus—the production of the first generation ended in 2015.

That’s when the latest generation Audi R8 started coming to the roads.

Specifications and Trims for the Audi R8

Models	V8 Quattro	5.2 V10 quattro	5.2 V10 GT quattro
Engine	4.2 Liter V8	5.2 Liter V10	5.2 Liter V10
Transmission	6-speed manual gearbox 7-speed Automatic gearbox	6-speed manual gearbox 7-speed Automatic gearbox	6-speed manual gearbox 7-speed Automatic gearbox
Horsepower	430 hp	525 hp	560 hp
Configuration	Manual AWD Coupe Automatic AWD Coupe	Manual AWD Coupe Automatic AWD Coupe	Manual AWD Coupe Automatic AWD Coupe

Note that these specifications are for the 2014 Audi R8.

Performance of the Audi R8

No matter the engine size, the Audi R8 promises an unparalleled driving adventure. The 424 hp variant, coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, catapults from 0 to 62mph in just 4.6 seconds, competing with the Porsche 911 Carrera S. Opting for the seven-speed automatic Audi S tronic gearbox, and you'll shave off an impressive 0.3 seconds from that time. Buckle up for an adrenaline-fueled ride like no other.

Equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox, the potent 525 hp V10 rockets from 0 to 62mph in just 3.9 seconds. Opting for the lightning-fast S tronic system, the time is reduced to a 3.6-second sprint.

Drive of the Audi R8

The thrill of a supercar meets effortless driving. Whether you opt for the V8 or V10, the R8 springs to life the moment you start it.

Picture this: the V8 and V10 engines of the Audi R8 roar to life, exuding an urgent energy that settles into a distinctive, captivating rumble. Now, engage Sport mode, and the exhaust note deepens into a mighty growl, transforming into an exhilarating scream as the revs climb higher.

The Audi R8 isn't just a car; it's a symphony of power and excitement waiting at your fingertips.

When you push the Audi R8 into a corner, its stiff suspension prevents you from having any body roll. The steering offers excellent feedback and responds with immediate precision. However, it doesn't have the same agility as a Porsche 911. The R8's wide tires provide immense grip, although they can sometimes search for cambers.

The four-wheel-drive system instills confidence in all driving conditions. The system maintains a rear-biased configuration, directing most power to the rear wheels during typical road driving.

A take on the Audi R8 Spyder.

The Audi R8 Spyder, available in V8 or V10 versions, delivers an exhilarating open-top driving experience. With the roof removed, the Spyder maintains a pleasing design despite the challenges of cutting off the top of a coupé. While removing the roof compromises rigidity and adds weight, Audi has tried to maintain structural integrity by incorporating carbon fiber door skins and an aluminum engine cover. The Spyder's cabin remains familiar, retaining the R8's logical layout and user-friendly controls.

In terms of performance, the V10-powered Spyder accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, showcasing its potent 518 hp engine. The V10's power delivery is remarkably smooth and linear, offering an enjoyable driving experience. However, the R8's brakes may feel lacking on the track, necessitating the optional ceramic brakes for spirited driving.

Despite the compromises associated with the convertible design, the R8 Spyder impresses with its agility and poise. While there's slightly more roll than the coupé, the Spyder remains sharp and intelligent, outperforming rivals like the Mercedes-AMG SL63 and Ferrari California. Overall, while the V8 coupé retains the title of the most exquisite-handling R8, the Spyder offers a thrilling and unique driving experience in the open air.

The curves that define the Audi R8

In the world of Audi, the R8 stands as a bold exception. Its distinctive design sets it apart, making a powerful statement that captures attention and leaves a lasting impression.

LEDs on the hood cast a mesmerizing glow at night.

The glass engine cover creates a captivating spectacle.

While the R8 is inherently stylish, the R8 V10 Plus takes it further with distinctive alloy wheels.

Extra carbon fiber accents adorning the side intakes and exhaust tips make it a true head-turner.

The interior of Audi R8

Due to its mid-engine design, the Audi R8 accommodates only two passengers, putting it behind rivals like the Nissan GT-R and Porsche 911 in terms of practicality.

Stepping into the Audi R8, you'll find a crafted interior that has stood the test since its debut in 2007.

While it maintains impeccable build quality, it's compared to the sleek new A3, beginning to show its age.

Despite the aging cabin and navigation graphics, the Audi R8 offers a comfortable environment thanks to its intuitive layout and excellent driving position.

You'll find ample space to explore the R8's cabin, complemented by a wide range of seat and wheel adjustment options, ensuring effortless comfort. Audi has addressed the typical supercar challenge of limited rear visibility by providing generously sized wing mirrors.

While the glovebox in the Audi R8 is reasonably spacious, and there's a shelf behind the seats and a 100-liter storage space in the front, it falls slightly short, offering 15 liters less than the Porsche 911.

Attributes of the Audi R8

Highs	Lows
✔ Ballet-dancer balance and grace ✔ Eager responses ✔ Telepathic steering ✔ Internal combustion sounds musical ✔ Outstanding V8 and V10s	✖ Proportions are awkward from some angles ✖ Uncomfortable dead-pedal height ✖ Blind in the rear quarters. ✖ R tronic semi-auto can be slow to react to paddles ✖ The Interior is outdated compared to its rivals

What do the Journalists have to say about the Audi R8?

“Fabulous. It is the most tactile Audi driver’s car ever. Just remember it’s a sports car, not a true supercar.”-TopGear

6-time 24 Hours of Le Man's winner Jacky Ickx described the R8 as "the best handling road car today."

“An Audi supercar was a big risk, even though it was lessened by piggy-backing an established heavyweight like Lamborghini’s Gallardo. But Ingolstadt has pulled it off – spectacularly.”-car magazine

Verdict

The Audi R8 embodies beauty and performance, setting a new standard for refinement in its class. If you desire a supercar that boasts stunning looks and dynamic capabilities and delivers a smooth ride, ensuring you stay fresh during long motorway drives, then the R8 is the perfect choice.

Deciding to purchase a used Audi R8 depends on finding the right one. If you come across an R8 maintained well and meticulously cared for with only minor signs of wear and tear, then absolutely go for it.

Things to look for when buying a used Audi R8

Leaks

Check for corrosion in the radiators and oil cooler pipes. Both will lead to leaks that you don’t want to have to plug yourself.

Warnings

Engine warning lights can result from poor-quality fuel or damaged wiring. The former is a sign of careless ownership; the latter is a big bill.

Repairs

The body, chassis, and suspension are aluminum, meaning crash repairs are specialized, and minor parking dings can be expensive.

Clutch

On a manual R8, the clutch should last around 20,000 miles—budget $4,500 to replace it, and factor this cost into bargaining.

How much is a used R8?

A used Audi R8 coupe will cost around $75,000 to $125,000. The Spyder version is rare and would cost much more than these numbers. The V10 Plus can go up to $170,000.