I checked out the R8 vs F430 vs 911 at Borders this afternoon, and I have to admit I'm not overly impressed with the R8 test results. The 0-60 mph and the 1/4 mile among others. The R8 does not seem to be much faster than the RS4, despite the lighter weight. Same engine though. This is just my opinion, but mating the R8 with a TT V10 (ala RS6) makes much more sense to me.

The R8 was on my radar, but in light of the test results, I'm going to hold onto my B7 S4 for now and wait for the new RS6. My dealer said that they will most likely be taking pre-orders by the end of this year. According to him they want to move all of the 1st generation R8's before they start advertising the RS6.

Also, the 100K base price in the magazine is a pipe dream. I've been quoted somewhere between 120-130K out the door which seems kind of steep given the overall performance. A brand new 997 911 Turbo can be had for not much more than that. I know which one I'd rather have.

The R8 is a nice concept and a nice looking car. I just think it needs more under the hood than a RS4 engine in order to compete with it's peers. Again, just MO, but it really needs a V10 before it's going to attract serious attention.

My guesses:

1) because the marketing folks at Audi probably felt that a 140K Audi was too large a step, so they are conditioning the market with the "baby step" V8.
2) an R8 with a 500hp V10 will put too much pressure on the Gallardo and they are waiting for Lambo to up the anty with a 550hp version.

and like nearly all Audi's, the R8 is such an amazing all arounder. Not a one trick pony like some other cars out there. (not saying the 911TT aint a great everyday car btw)

RB

It'd be a deal in the mid 90s or even at $100k, but when you're getting close to 997TT territory, forget it. I was pondering picking one up in a year or so but if it's going to run $120k, I'll take the much more tuneable 997TT for far superior performance. Now, if the V10 could be had for $120-130k, that would be tempting, but no way Audi will undercut the G-car by that much.

So, now which one would you choose? The Gallardo is a Lambo after all. Although the R8 is an all new design and there is nothing out there that looks like it.

I am contemplating these three: GT3/RS, R8 V10, Gallardo SE, or a 997TT?