The primary era (Gen 1) of the Audi R8 was first launched within the US in 2008 and shortly established itself as one of the vital iconic and sought-after luxurious sports activities automobiles available on the market.

The R8 was Audi’s first mid-engine sports activities automotive, and it was designed to ship a very distinctive driving expertise with out sacrificing any facet of luxurious or consolation.

Obtainable with two engine configurations: a 4.2L V8 and a 5.2L V10, each of which have been paired with a complicated Quattro all-wheel-drive system, delivering distinctive stability and dealing with.

The Gen 1 Audi R8 was a real masterpiece of engineering and design.

The automotive was constructed with a light-weight aluminum house body, which was designed to offer an ideal stability of power and weight, making the R8 extremely agile and responsive.

The automotive’s exterior design was additionally placing, that includes sharp traces and aggressive angles by no means seen earlier than that gave it an unmistakable presence on the street.

The R8’s inside was equally as spectacular as one would anticipate from Audi, with good match and end, premium leather-based supplies, and a driver-focused format that put all of the controls inside simple attain.

The Gen 1 R8 was not only a automotive, it was a press release of luxurious and energy, a logo of the model’s dedication to carve a reputation for themselves within the luxurious sports activities automotive market.

Most significantly, it gave potential automotive patrons an alternative choice to its rival competitor, Porsche 911 Turbo, as an on a regular basis supercar…

On the identical time it was difficult Italy’s finest with the Lamborghini LP560 and Ferrari F430 and 458 Italia, as a extra inexpensive and usable unique automotive.

Merely put, the Audi R8 set the usual for a supercar of its time and it nonetheless holds an iconic place in automotive historical past.

Driving Expertise

Driving the first-generation (Gen 1) Audi R8 is an expertise that’s actually unforgettable.

From the second you sit behind the wheel and listen to the engine roar to life, you already know you’re in one thing particular.

Each the V8 and V10 engines sound distinctive, and provide a way of energy and velocity that’s quick but controllable.

The engine’s energy is delivered seamlessly to all 4 wheels by way of the superior Quattro all-wheel-drive system, offering distinctive stability and dealing with.

The R8’s suspension is completely tuned to offer a stability of consolation and efficiency, delivering a clean and composed journey on the street.

The automotive’s light-weight aluminum house body and sharp steering provides a direct feeling with the street making it extremely agile and responsive.

Over the lifespan of the primary era Audi R8, it was out there with three transmission choices: R-Tronic, S-Tronic, and 6-Pace handbook transmission.

Whereas all of those transmission choices present an pleasant driving expertise, it’s the 6-speed handbook transmission that actually stands out as probably the most enjoyable and fascinating possibility.

The gated handbook transmission gives a mechanical and visceral feeling that’s unparalleled in at this time’s automobiles that are principally outfitted with computerized transmissions.

You’ll be capable of really feel and listen to the gears shifting, and it provides a degree of management and precision that isn’t discovered in lots of fashionable automobiles.

The handbook transmission model of the Audi R8 is turning into more and more uncommon and sought-after, as the provision of this mannequin decreases and the value continues to rise.

S-Tronic transmission debuted in 2014 as the graceful, dependable, and quick shifting twin clutch substitute to the jerky R-Tronic single clutch transmission present in earlier years.

Each the R-Tronic and S-Tronic have been paddle operated semi-automatic transmissions.

Mannequin Modifications (Breakdown by Yr)

2008 Audi R8

In 2008, Audi shocked the world when it launched the R8 to the general public with a beginning base worth of roughly $110,000… slotting it above the Porsche 911 and underneath any Ferrari or Lamborghini.

Debuting with the smooth silhouette of a two-door coupe and iconic LEDs alongside the underside of the headlights and distinctive facet blade function, the Audi R8 was not like every other sports activities automotive on the time.

As with most unique automotive conditions, the R8 was powered by a mid-engine 4.2L V8 producing 420 HP that was initially discovered within the Audi RS4.

2009 Audi R8

Mechanically, the 2009 Audi R8 was mainly the identical because the 2008.

Nonetheless, there have been some slight modifications to the choices and automotive value mentioning:

• New possibility: Carbon Fiber could be ordered for inside trim, engine panels, or facet blade.
• New possibility: 19” double spoke polished wheel design was provided.
• Digital Data System (DIS) modified from low res pink to a lot increased res white.
• AUX enter added within the heart console for 2009 (some late 2008s even have).
• Rear trunk launch moved from a handbook pull beneath the headlight switches, to an electrical swap behind the drivers left shoulder on the left wall of the automotive.
• New inside rear cabin window defogger swap.

2010 Audi R8

The largest change got here in 2010, in a transfer that will shock many, Audi borrowed the Lamborghini V10 engine and shoved it within the Audi R8 chassis delivering a most energy output of 525 horsepower and a most torque of 391 lb-ft.

Whereas the V10 engine was the largest change for 2009, the R-Tronic and 6-speed handbook transmission choices remained the identical.

Selecting the V10 Audi R8 would worth it round $150,000, or roughly $40,000 greater than its V8 counterpart.

On the outside, many modifications differentiated the V8 from the V10.

To the human eye, most R8s will look the identical however the V10 has a gloss black rear bumper insert together with oval exhaust ideas as a substitute of quad ideas.

From the facet you’ll now discover barely bigger facet blade consumption scoops and extra aggressive facet skirts alongside the underside. The V10 entrance grille is now provided with chrome cross weaving.

The next modifications have been added for 2010 as properly:

• New Navigation system with improved graphics, visitors knowledge, and true AMI functionality
• New possibility: Full LED headlights (commonplace on V10)
• New possibility: Audi music interface out there with Navigation
• New possibility: Wheels in Titanium end

2011 Audi R8

2011 gave start to the spyder variants of each the V8 and V10 mannequin. Base worth for the 4.2L V8 began round $132,000, whereas the V10 spyder had a base worth of round $165,000 earlier than choices.

Nonetheless, one distinct and controversial visible change impacted the design and that was the removing of the signature facet blade and in place was a protracted sweeping facet consumption vent.

Different notable modifications for the 2011 Audi R8:

• New possibility: Carbon Fiber Sigma exterior package deal (entrance spoiler and rear diffuser)

2012 Audi R8

For the blokes that wished a extra hardcore track-focused R8, Audi launched the 2012 Audi R8 GT spec mannequin in each coupe and spyder kind in 2012.

Clocking in round $200,000 base worth for the R8 GT coupe, and $215,000 base worth for the R8 GT Spyder, these have been probably the most unique and costly first era Audi R8 but.

Just like what you’ll discover in a Lamborghini Superleggera or Porsche GT3 RS, the R8 GT centered on shaving weight and including energy as its fundamental precedence.

Key variations have been much less weight, extra aero with a hard and fast rear wing and entrance canard winglets, aggressive rear diffuser, clear tail lights, and barely reworked rear bumpers and entrance bumper grilles.. whereas the inside was closely optioned with alcantara and individually numbered out of the 333 items on the shift knob.

The Audi R8 GT was solely out there with the R-Tronic transmission.

Solely 333 complete items have been made with 90 coupes and 50 spyders allotted for the US market.

Different notable modifications for the 2012 Audi R8:

• New possibility: carbon ceramic brakes
• New possibility: Perforated leather-based steering wheel
• New possibility: Titanium Sport Package deal for Coupes: Black Optic exterior, Piano Black inside inlays, Black alcantara headliner, exhaust ideas in black, & Titanium end wheels

2013 Audi R8

No Audi R8s have been bought for the mannequin 12 months 2013.

That’s as a result of the R8 was not produced as a 2013 in anticipation for the mid-life cycle replace that got here in 2014.

2014 Audi R8

2014 marked the largest change for the primary era Audi R8 mannequin with an enormous refresh that added a twin clutch S-Tronic transmission and numerous design tweaks inside and outside.

Variations included commonplace LED headlights and tail lights, whereas the bumpers have been reworked as soon as once more and had spherical exhaust ideas as commonplace for each the V8 and V10.

Inside choices have been tremendously improved with newly out there cross stitching that elevated the inside.

The V10 added an extra trim degree known as the “V10 Plus” which added 25 HP (for a complete of 550 HP), carbon ceramic brakes as commonplace, and firmer suspension.

For 2014, the R8 continued to be provided in each Coupe and Spyder variants for the V8 and V10 fashions.

Different notable modifications for the 2014 Audi R8:

• New commonplace wheel design.
• Prolonged Leather-based package deal was upgraded to Full Leather-based package deal, which coated extra inside surfaces (navigation encompass, heart tunnel, and e-brake).
• New possibility: Diamond Sew Full Leather-based package deal.

2015 Audi R8

Since a serious refresh occurred only a 12 months in the past, Audi saved issues comparatively easy for 2015.

Nonetheless, there was the introduction of a brand new R8 V10 Competitors mannequin… Audi’s ultimate swan music for the primary era R8.

Just like the Audi R8 GT method of much less weight and extra energy, the R8 Competitors was restricted to solely 60 items and featured extra aggressive bodywork within the type of carbon fiber rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and entrance splitter.

The 5.2-liter V10 engine produced 570 horsepower (20 greater than the V10 Plus) and 398 lb-ft of torque, and when mixed with the S-Tronic transmission, the R8 Competitors topped out at 199 mph and will speed up from 0-60 mph in simply 3.2 seconds.

The R8 V10 Competitors additionally has a variety of commonplace performance-enhancing upgrades, together with a sport-tuned suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, and a sport exhaust system.

The R8 V10 Competitors is unique and collectible as it’s the final model made earlier than the second era of R8.

Different notable modifications for the 2015 Audi R8:

• New possibility: Pink brake calipers
• New possibility: Sport exhaust system

Audi R8 Frequent Issues

It’s value noting that, whereas the Gen 1 Audi R8 is a reasonably dependable automotive, many individuals have pushed theirs to very excessive mileage with none vital points.

Nonetheless, you will need to remember that all automobiles, even supercars, can have points and you will need to carry out a Pre-Buy Inspection (PPI) from a licensed seller or skilled impartial mechanic to disclose all points.

Listed beneath are among the most typical points which were reported by house owners of the Gen 1 Audi R8:

• Magnetic journey suspension points: Many house owners have reported points with the suspension, together with worn bushings and leaking suspension parts. These points can result in a much less snug journey and diminished dealing with capabilities. You will need to have any suspension parts inspected prior to buy, and to handle any points that will come up as quickly as attainable. A standard repair for this situation is to switch with manufacturing facility or aftermarket coilover kits which may run anyplace from $2,000 to $6,000 plus labor.

• AC compressor: One other widespread situation reported by some Gen 1 Audi R8 house owners is the AC compressor, it will possibly trigger the air-con system to cease working, leaving the occupants of the automotive with out cool air on scorching days. Just like the suspension situation, you will need to examine the AC compressor prior to buy for any indicators of failure. The excellent news is that you would be able to change the compressor with an aftermarket Denso branded unit for a fraction of the value for an OEM unit. The unhealthy information is that if out of guarantee, you’ll be able to anticipate labor prices upwards of $3,500 by means of an impartial mechanic. Substitute is labor intensive as a result of the placement of the AC compressor usually requires engine out service.
• Engine oil leaks: Some R8 house owners have reported oil leaks from the engine, which could be brought on by a wide range of points akin to worn gaskets, broken oil seals, or lack of routine upkeep. These leaks may cause harm to the engine if not addressed in a well timed method. Sometimes oil leaks are simple to identify and needs to be reported throughout Pre-Buy Inspection.
• Transmission points: House owners with the R-Tronic transmission have reported points with the transmission, together with slipping gears and problem shifting. These points could be brought on by worn transmission parts or issues with the transmission management module. Whereas R-Tronic clutches usually are recognized to final a very long time, there may be the likelihood for wanted clutch substitute… particularly for increased mileage automobiles. S-Tronic transmission clutches ought to final a lifetime and 6-Pace handbook transmission clutches are depending on driver habits. Fortunately all transmission choices provide the skill to do a clutch put on studying prior to buy to know the extent of clutch put on.
• Body cracking: One other recognized situation particularly for early 2009-2010 Audi R8 is the chassis body cracking close to the entrance suspension. Audi was made conscious of this and rectified this situation from 2011 onwards. Whereas some customers have bolstered cracked frames, the structural integrity stays jeopardized. Fortunately the susceptible cracked frames areas could be seen giving potential patrons the power to make sure a automotive is structurally sound.

Recollects

Gas Provide Line (Recall no. 11V390000)

The gas provide line might come into contact and rub in opposition to the warmth protect within the engine compartment. This might result in a small gas leak and may result in automobile fireplace if involved with ignition. This recall is just affected on 2011-2012 Audi R8 Spyders.

Upkeep and Possession Prices

Proudly owning an Audi R8 could be thought-about comparatively low upkeep in comparison with different high-performance supercars.

Nonetheless, you will need to remember that common upkeep and repairs will nonetheless be mandatory, and the prices can fluctuate relying on whether or not you are taking your automotive to a seller or impartial mechanic.

Here’s a tough estimate of typical service prices related to the Audi R8:

• Oil Change – As little as $150 for impartial mechanic and $300 for seller.
• Brakes (pads/rotors) – About $2,000 – $2,500 for components and labor. Ceramic brakes ought to final the lifetime of the automotive.
• Tires – A set of excessive efficiency tires like Michelin PS4 can value about $1,500.
• Annual Service – Sometimes contains oil change, spark plugs, cabin filters, and engine filter. Value from an impartial mechanic averages round $1,250.

Choices Listing

The primary era Audi R8 provided a a number of choices for patrons to choose from.

Among the many hottest choices was the carbon sigma facet blade, which added a carbon fiber facet blade to the outside of the automotive, enhancing its aerodynamics and giving it a sporty and aggressive look.

Whereas not the very best, the R-Tronic transmission was additionally a preferred selection on the time previous to 2014, which was a 6-speed computerized transmission with paddle shifters, offering a F1-like expertise.

Moreover, many patrons opted for the carbon sigma inside trim package deal as properly, which included carbon fiber accents on the dashboard and door panels, including a contact of luxurious to the automotive’s inside.

The carbon sigma exterior package deal which included a entrance lip and rear diffuser in carbon fiber additionally was a preferred selection.

Some patrons additionally opted for the prolonged leather-based choices, which included fantastic Nappa leather-based seats, leather-based door panels, and a dashboard, which was an improve from the usual leather-based and alcantara upholstery.

A handful of R8 clients additionally went by means of the Audi Unique program which was a factory-in-house customization program, that allowed clients to personalize their R8 with distinctive exterior and inside colours, supplies, and options that weren’t out there on common manufacturing fashions.

Due to the strict approval necessities, automobiles that went by means of the Audi Unique program are thought-about extremely fascinating.

These automobiles normally command the next premium available in the market attributable to their exclusivity and uniqueness.

Whereas there have been some possibility modifications from 2008-2015, beneath are the choices record out there for the ultimate 12 months of each the pre-facelift (2008-2012) and facelift (2014-2015) first era Audi R8 V10.

2012 Audi R8 V10 Choices Listing

2015 Audi R8 Choices Listing

A number of the extra fascinating choices to search for:

• 6-speed gated handbook transmission or S-Tronic transmission
• Carbon fiber inside and engine panels (commonplace on V10 fashions)
• Carbon fiber facet blade
• Prolonged leather-based
• Audi Unique exterior or inside (uncommon)
• Diamond stitching inside package deal (2014-2015)

The Greatest Audi R8 to Purchase

In the case of shopping for an R8, there are a couple of key elements to contemplate that may have an effect on the automotive’s long-term worth.

Maybe crucial issue to contemplate when shopping for an R8 is the transmission.

As such, worth tendencies for the Audi R8 fall in three totally different buckets.

In case you are seeking to purchase an R8 with the strongest potential for future appreciation, the 6 velocity gated handbook transmission fashions, significantly the V10, are your finest guess.

Though handbook transmission R8s usually command a premium, it does drastically scale back the depreciation generally present in different fashions.

And as increasingly automobiles flip to hybrid expertise, the naturally aspirated V10 mixed with 6-speed handbook transmission automobiles are extremely wanted by collectors and lovers in at this time’s market.

The “creme de la creme” of all of them is the facelifted 2014-2015 Audi R8 in 6-speed handbook, with solely 18 items in 2014 and eight items in 2015 produced with a handbook transmission. Anticipate to pay a hefty premium when one comes up on the market.

So when you might pay extra now, there’s a higher likelihood of the worth rising over time… particularly in case you plan to maintain one for greater than 5 years.

Usually ignored and typically forgotten, restricted version fashions, such because the Audi R8 GT, and R8 Competitors are additionally thought-about to be nice choices for these in search of an R8 that will respect in worth attributable to exclusivity.

These fashions are produced in restricted numbers and sometimes function distinctive styling and superior efficiency enhancements, making them extra fascinating to collectors and automotive lovers.

When it comes to market stability, your finest guess is the 2014-2015 Audi R8 with the S-Tronic transmission.

The twin clutch S-Tronic transmission has been confirmed to be very dependable, and whereas not as enjoyable as a real handbook transmission, has zero of the negatives usually discovered within the older R-Tronic transmission.

Mixed with the minor modifications discovered within the 2014-2015 Audi R8, the S-Tronic is a wonderful selection nonetheless and costs proceed to stay secure.

Nonetheless, alternatively, all R-Tronic Audi R8 fashions (2009-2012) stay the least fascinating because of the clunky nature of the transmission, and topic to a extra aggressive depreciation as time goes on.

It’s endorsed that you just take into account an R-Tronic Audi R8 as a final resort.

On this graph beneath, you’ll be able to see the rarity of the Audi R8 with a handbook transmission in the USA, displaying the variety of R-Tronic and 6 velocity handbook transmission R8s.

As the info reveals, the handbook transmission variations of the Audi R8 are a lot rarer than the automated R-Tronic variations, for each the V8 and V10 engine choices.

In case you are in search of a very memorable driving expertise, will probably be tough to discover a higher possibility than an Audi R8 with a gated handbook transmission and a naturally aspirated V10 engine.

The distinctive sound of the gated handbook shifting gears, mixed with the ability of a big V10, make it a very distinctive and particular driving expertise.

The one caveat is that it’s uncommon to search out V10 handbook R8s available on the market these days.

Those which were bought at auctions have commanded a excessive worth, and we anticipate this development to proceed sooner or later.

Along with the transmission and restricted version fashions, the situation and mileage of the automotive are additionally necessary elements to contemplate when shopping for an R8.

A well-maintained automotive with low mileage is extra more likely to retain its worth in the long term.

Due to this fact, it’s necessary to do your analysis, examine costs, and search for well-maintained automobiles in case you are contemplating buying an R8 with the objective of appreciation.

Conclusion

For round $100,000 to $150,000, relying on spec, the Audi R8 is arguably probably the greatest entry degree unique automobiles you should buy at this time.

Whilst you might be able to discover different automobiles like Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, or the Porsche 911 Turbo in that worth vary as properly, neither may have the expertise, consolation, ease of use, and reliability that may be discovered within the Audi R8.

In abstract, in case you are seeking to get your first on a regular basis unique automotive then the Audi R8 is a no brainer.