A Car Guy Love Story: How I Fell For The Audi R8 Over 16 Years

[@MrAjjm65]

Just got to 26:00:00 on this review. Whatever is happening in your personal life, Jay, please consider this: your video reviews (and all those of your KZbin colleagues) help the rest of us petrolhead mortals to escape our own realities and daily problems. You make a tremendous difference to so many people, you enable us all to escape the sometimes mundane aspects of modern life. Thank you for all that you do, and I hope things work out okay.

[@GT380man]

Echo that. Given the backdrop, coupled with extraordinary censorship, I often offer up a modest prayer for the protection of these people who we don’t know, in the main, yet may feel we could be friends with them.

[@punkmonstermoose]

Just wanted to say that I rarely comment on KZbin videos, but you have been someone I watch regularly (fell asleep to your reviews last night), and I felt the need to comment in the hope that you read this. I’ve watched multiple reviews on the majority of the cars you’ve uploaded, but I choose to watch your videos because of you, the person. You bring something to car reviews that is so authentic and personable, and that makes me happy your channel exists. Seeing a new video from you gives me the same feeling I had as a kid when my favorite cartoon would start. Because of you, I recently purchased a 986 Boxster after a tough time in my life, and while it has not mended things I’ve needed to address inwardly, it has done exactly what the R8 is doing for you in this video. As everyone has already said, I hope whatever you are going through passes. I also hope that if you ever question whether making car videos for KZbin truly helps people, know that, in my case, it has.

[@davidarter6271]

Hope you are OK, James. Remember, it’s all uphill from here! The secret to life is to endure.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks David - onwards and upwards

[@futurecat]

​@JayEmmOnCars , I want you to know that you sometimes make me laugh like the old Top Gear lads did, and your reviews are *the* most insightful I've seen. You are appreciated more, perhaps, than you realize. When I'm enjoying your videos, I feel I'm watching someone quite remarkable before they're famous. p.s. - my therapist (who has a 912), actually *reminds* me to drive my miata.

[@brianjames5685]

Also thankyou David. I'm a 48 year old musician and I'm losing my hearing so reading your comment helped me too. I also hope James is ok.

[@jumolbureanu2415]

@@JayEmmOnCars lose weight bro, don t need to thank me, thank yourself

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@jumolbureanu2415 neither helpful or appropriate

[@sylvaleader]

I was sorry to hear that you have had the worst time of your life lately, and I wish you well. I have been following you on and off since you started and reading the comments over the years it seems to me that although you might not have the largest motoring channel out there, you do seem to have some of the most loyal, helpful and dare I say it - nicest subscribers. Not for you the idiots who like to boast or criticise any aspect of your content for no good reason, just to make themselves look good or knowledgeable . Most of your subscribers appear well balanced ordinary people (just look at the sort of comments being left for you), who just happen to enjoy what you do, and that's not a given in youtube land. Whatever is going on in your private life, you appear strong enough to weather. Throw yourself into your work and keep growing this channel, and good luck with everything.

[@CR71243]

James - the love you have for your work brings happiness to my life - thanks for everything you do to share. On the other hand, I blame you because I now own a 599 GTB and two F12s - it’s your fault, really. ❤

[@redchristy]

Im just back from a charity track day in Ireland,loads of serious cars but absolutely nothing sounded like the grey r8 v10 that was there!!! I absolutely adore them.

[@maxmgquba8494]

That Naturally aspirated v10 sounds AMAZING!!

[@costafilh0]

"Electric is the future" Me "caring" about the future while I hear this amazing V10: 🤤

[@ethanbailey7247]

Just bought an early gen 1 V8 manual and I will safely say that I’m never parting ways with it. Peak audi IMHO

[@maxmgquba8494]

Cherish her

[@JonathanDerrett]

James, we wanted to wish you our best for what you described as one of the worst times of your life. We both wish you a better outlook for the coming weeks and wanted to thank you for all your fantastic videos. Sending our love and best wishes ❤️ ♥️

[@mrtune551]

I have exactly the same feeling about the R8. Driven the R8 plus multiple times and it was for me the perfect combination of ‘italian’ Passion and german quality.

[@claudiomartins5595]

It’s never just a car, it will always mean something else for someone. Whatever you’re going through, stay strong. You’re not alone, in fact you have an entire army besides you. We’re here for you mate. Thanks for all the content and hours spent ❤

[@anorthernsoul5600]

Hope you're doing as well as you can in the circumstances James. You've often put a smile on my face with your car reviews. Just watched an older vid you did on the RR Wraith last night. The Witch-king of Angmar routine was a standout feature, don't really remember the actual car review now. Thanks for what you do James the community is here for you pal.

[@marvjoyce]

We all say we’re ok… but we really aren’t. Hope you’re ok mate. Love you and your content. ❤

[@JD-ef1jb]

You're the only YTuber who owns cars I desperately lust after, but that I can still watch without feeling envious. And I could listen to you read car repair manuals and it'd be interesting. So whatever it is, I hope you make it through it, and things get better. I wish you all the success and happiness life has to offer James. Cheers from Michigan.

[@mistercutts]

I remember having a horrible few weeks back end of 2017, early 2018 and your Berlin video with Laurie plus others helped me escape, raise a smile and face the next day, in a better frame of mind. Thanks for then, and also another excellent video & best wishes.

[@sprintermaximus]

Good on you James. I initially didn't like your channel, maybe 4-5 years ago. Now, one of my favorites. I watch daily. Great to hear you Audi story. And regardless of what's going on in your personal life, you'll get through it. I'm confident. Thanks for continuing to put out content, and I'll continue to watch. All the best!

[@Matthew-ll9ke]

Sorry to hear about the crappy week James. Just remember, the sun will rise again tomorrow, and you have a lot of people who care about what you do and who you are.

[@theicemario15]

Your mention of Paul Wallace’s R8 made me take quite the trip down memory lane. His V8 and Shmee’s V10 Spyder will forever be etched in my memory. I was a teenager then and their videos were to me the best thing on the internet. Wishing you well

[@johnscarsandstuff]

Hi James, sorry to hear that you had an awful week. I hope things improve and that you have the support that you need. It's really nice to see how many people have provided messages of support. As for the Audi R8, for me it was love from the first moment I opened the throttle on an R8 V10. It was a first generation car, with the gated manual and it felt incredibly special. It remains the only supercar I've driven and is one of the few that I would consider buying. As for negative reviews, my feeling is that a decent press office will understand that not everyone will like everything. And, if you are fair in your reviews, then they will respect that.

[@taxus750]

Two things JayEmm: 1) the longer you live, the more events you witness (some sad, many amazing); 2) in times of stress, always have something you can practise and involve yourself in - music, parkour, campanology, whatever. In my case, like you, it's a motor vehicle - mine is a bike (a 27 year old Honda) and riding it is absorbing. Be well.

[@TheVaultIsMine]

Been loving the R8 content as of late, especially as we are in the model's epilogue and possibly nearing the end of the mainstream V10, may you feel better soon!

[@michaeljoel2883]

Wishing you happier days ahead, James. I recently bought a 2023 R8 Spyder RWD. It’s fun, reliable, and more understated than many other exotics, which makes it more practical to daily drive.

[@maxmgquba8494]

Congrats on the purchase

[@amospizzey1]

Hope you’re ok James , You bring a lot of us joy and insight. Keep looking up brother ⭐️❤️⭐️

[@edmundisanski982]

Best wishes to you in your difficult time. You entertain me greatly with every new video so a big thank you for that. Of an evening when I kick back checking out if there is anything new from you is first on my list.

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, these R8s do seem a good place to spend a while. Shame we didn't see the yellow on sunny day! Best wishes to you at this difficult time 🙏🙏

[@theswissdriver]

thank you for all your videos James, all the best!

[@MrCRAIGJSTEVENS]

James, thankyou for making this video despite your bad week. I hope you are getting the support you may need and remember that we are here for you pal.

[@sanxi34]

My condolences for whatever is happening in your personal life. We're here to support you how ever we can and so, if you need to take a break from filming feel free to do so. We all deserve some vacation time every now and then. Otherwise, we'll keep engaging with your videos to ensure the algorithm Gods remain happy and they suggest your videos =)

[@timcollins380]

Hey James, I hope you are doing OK. I always watch your reviews and take note when purchasing any car because I know you are unbiased and drive a car like most of us enthusiasts do. All the best, stay positive and be happy.

[@TIMSANDYSURF]

Recently, when things go wrong for me, I repeat this phrase - “you are exactly where you’re supposed to be”! I hope it helps you as much as it helps me.

[@peterfritzphoto]

That’s indeed a powerful and valuable statement. 👍

[@andrewbox8984]

Another fantastic and informative video James. Thank you for who you are and what you do.

[@FridgetoPantry]

Wishing you well. On the gen 1 R8 comparison the key change you are missing is the tyres. The better examples you’ve experienced have been on ps4s, not the ancient pzero of the original press car.

[@jamesonslow]

Hang in there, James. You have a huge number of KZbin friends.

[@phazonlord0098]

Now that's what I called some character development right at the tail end of your R8 saga. I knew it would happen, especially by how much you warmed up to it after your experience with the second gen.

[@richardkay1587]

Hi James. Just wanted to message to pass on my best wishes to you. I too have had a bad time recently, with the passing of my dad. Hope things get better for you soon and thank you for all the content you upload.

[@CR71243]

Yes! I love new Jay Emm researched reviews - just awesome!!!

[@sharkstergames]

When things ever got too much for me I would grab my crash helmet and head out for a ride, shutting myself away in my crash helmet with just me, the road and my bike..... nothing comes close to me for clearing my head, great vid James, time is a great healer

[@jamessheehy4895]

V10 spider mk1 was my favourite car i’ve ever been out in! The sound was amazing i still want to get one maybe one day!

[@AntoniusTyas]

I hope you're doing OK now, James. Just so you know, binge-watching your reviews, first drives and rambles are what got me through the day for the past few months. If things are just going to go far south for me, at least I can wait for your latest videos to make my day slightly less shit. So thanks a lot for that. Also, a bit of a change of heart from me, after comparing both the OG R8 GT and the new R8 GT it does feel like the new GT was a bit of an insult. Nowhere near as much of a weekend engineering project as the 2010 R8 GT. A sad bookend to the greatest car lineage Audi has ever made.

[@mindthedoors]

Chin up mate, you make a difference to many in the way you can distract us from our dull lives and problems. Thanks for sharing the good with the bad. Wishing you well for whatever the future has in store for you and yours. Keep safe.

[@ricado372]

I'm really happy for you. Well done to seal that relationship with audi. It was gutting to hear, life is not all it seems to be , wishing you the best fella.

[@isaacmelgar9647]

Actually come to think of it, the A2 was the very first video I watched from you but I wasn't able to check your channel out that time, still its a great pleasure to see your videos, I eagerly look forward to them

[@davidbuchanan1538]

What a cracking video! Just great to hear you give your history with Audi. Just lovely. And hope you’re ok.

[@mgusto4145]

Thank you for the videos and content, always welcome. Hope you're well.

[@mcgherkinstudios]

Wishing you the best James, hope things are improving.

[@brianiswrong]

All the best in your personal life James As for the R8 and audi's in general, i think your teviews are always spot on and honest And it to audi's credit they dont ' black ball you ' when you tell it as it is and offer you more cars to review.

[@GuitarsnCars]

Wishing you all the best mate.

[@longtailgt]

A great example of how cars are so much more than just a piece of metal and rubber on wheels! They're your companions through life and help get you through incredible times, however rubbish they might be. Hope you're getting through this well, James! I have a similar story with the R8 to yours, but with the mk2 R8 specifically. I used to hate it for its design when it was new, but it slowly grew on me and a couple of instances (and years) later, I ended up getting a ride in a V10 Plus, and that just so happened to be my very first supercar experience, and I enjoyed it a lot! That made me really like the mk2 R8 and I honestly believe that it was, and still is, a better car than the Huracán, if you can live with the looks. On that note, I would like to know what you think of the styling of the R8, particularly the mk2 (as compared to the mk1). I personally think with the facelifts, it kept getting worse, although I will say the early 2016/17 cars have aged better. I'd even say if the front end looked better and more traditional, the mk2 R8 would've been infinitely better looking than the Huracán.

[@bulldogsnbunniesUK]

Great video, James. Much appreciated. I love R8s.💛 Sending you love and best wishes.❤️

[@alexjaybrady]

Sorry to hear youve had a rough week mate. Im at week 7 of new baby, people say you dont get much sleep but ive had a good 8 hours a month dunno what theyre talking about. can confirm the Lexus Sportcross makes quite a decent camper when the other half needs a time out from my incessant crying and the hotels are booked up! Love that silver touring car, i had a poster of that next to the one of the lammers/rydell volvo 850.

[@alasdairlowe5359]

Sound wasexquisite & your chaff well done, natural & informative . You are getting more professional ( very pro)

[@HydrophobicWater.]

I think this comment section is extremely happy to even just be a viewer- but i think ill just mine short and sweet and just say: whatever happens must not limit you at all, and there is always the opportunity waiting to pursue greater things.

[@MandeepSingh-hu5wy]

Hi James, great overview of the R8, really enjoyed it! Hope your ok and whatever you are going through I wish you all the best. I've watched your reviews since the early days of your channel and have always loved the honesty!

[@8359s]

I watch your videos since pre Evora era, when you reviewed I think it was your fathers A45 or CLA45. I hope you are well enough. You are actually the only car KZbinr I would show up for at a car meet(living in Poland, not gonna happen probably). Good luck!

[@dwn2634]

Sounds as though the Vegas yellow R8 came along at the very right time for you, James. Keep the faith.

[@anthonyhowells4560]

When i was young the cars were the Ferrari Testarossa, Porsche 911 turbo, Merc SEC, BMW 6 series seemed such along away when i was young.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Ahh, I remember the Covid lockdowns... I live right on the edge of a small city - practically Rural... I used to sneak out a once a week or so at the crack of dawn and enjoy the empty country roads, with only the occasional farmer to be aware of - no pesky Fiestas driving 20 under the limit to worry about. If I'd been pulled over by the cops I would have been in trouble for breaking curfew, though I had my defense of being on a mission to the supermarket (via the really, really long route) - but my radar detector never went off even once. Definitely done the "My life sucks! Road trip time!' therapy before - always helps. Hang in there!

[@steverathbone1954]

Footballs had these Audi R8 , but started to have leg problems, Don't no if it was the leg or pedal positions. but where warned by clubs and other players not to drive them, Also they have no NCAP rating and where bad in accidents just google it, as engine and body separated during a serious accident the later versions fit a carbon fibre panel between the engine area and rear of the seats.

[@EddieRicks-i8v]

I haven’t driven a mk2 but may rent one ☝️ for the weekend. So nice looking and it’s sad that it is no longer in production 😢

[@Frank-1978]

More power to you James. 👏👍✌️💪

[@iManual6peed]

Good speed brotha!!! Hope all will get better.

[@GazMoby]

Very enjoyable as always 👍

[@chrisfalcke6201]

Cracking content as always and I love your "stories". Keep it up please 😊

[@benvan-ness1030]

I love the Audi that you're driving the man it's kind of quiet it doesn't have much of an exhaust I know in the UK there's so many noise restrictions that might be the reason for such a quiet exhaust but a car like that a really needed to me sounded a little louder

[@murrieteacher]

What a trip down memory lane. A very underrated car. But must be the spyder.

[@leongiles3496]

Thank you again James... hope you are feeling better... get in touch if you need a Scandinvavian bolt hole...

[@sidrens1047]

One of the most genius designs from a car company ever… the ultimate vampire car… doesn’t age!!!

[@melvinburwell8202]

My favorite car period. Loved the original body style. I guess that's just me. Now she's gone.😪😭😭😥😢💔😿❣️😓❤

[@tjpj1919]

You could release the audio of these videos as a podcast, love your work.

[@Track_Star]

You should do a video about your family vis a vis cars. Because many of your videos mention your family's passion for various sporty vehicles (seems like mostly Porsches). But that can be super fun.

[@milesmitchell1816]

Keep your head up king!

[@degensanonymous]

Great video. Interesting to hear a bit about your YT background and also how it works with press cars etc. appreciate you 😊

[@mikelodge1957]

Excellent video very intuitive, sorry to hear you've had a rough time, hope things improve soon👍

[@Baron-Ortega]

Hey James what i think happened to you happened to me last weekend. Came right out of the blue and was a kick in the teeth. Feel your pain. But want to say thanks for all the great videos and keep it up. It gets easier.

[@JoJoJoker]

The facelift Mk1 R8 is the real sweet spot for a “beater” super car.

[@terryosborn]

Take good care of you, life can be a b***h sometimes but you will get through. Love your videos and looking forward to many more. Best wishes. Terry

[@stuartalexanderbass]

Hi James, it’s always darkest before the dawn. I hope you’re ok. You have many friends. Stuart

[@MrAjjm65]

Beautiful when it launched in 2006. Beautiful when it has now retired in 2023. Jeez, we are going to miss these objects of automotive desire. It appeals to all the petrolhead’s senses, most importantly sound - something that will never be replicated with EVs.

[@kaileysweeney4240]

A manual R8 convertible is one of my hero cars.

[@marcdelaunay1]

Hey Jay….always good to view and listen…I am sure you’ll have friends and loved ones mate to help you through the sh1te that life can sometimes bring…this too shall pass, take care. Go for a drive when you can. ✌️🙏👍

[@saico.r8]

Its a shame that you´ve never drivin the prefacelift MK2 R8 (My car). I drove every MK2 R8´s (with and without OPF) and Iam really really happy with my decision to keep the prefaclift and just put the new bumper on it. This car sounds unbelivable without the OPF and is acually faster then the "620 hp" Facelift. So I beg you to get your hands on a prefacelift MK2 and do a review on this car. :)

[@maxmgquba8494]

Faster can’t be the gearing is the exact same as the pre facelift gen2 r8 V10 plus

[@maxmgquba8494]

How much was the number conversion?

[@saico.r8]

@@maxmgquba8494 nope the gearing ins´t the same at all

[@maxmgquba8494]

@@saico.r8 unless your r8 has been reworked they are the exact same gearing ratios only the v10 non plus has different (longer gearing ratios I can list the ratios if you like

[@camrunner6633]

1st gen is by far the best looking Always channel the pain and stress in the determination

[@Xolition]

Audi loves you. We love you.

[@klasseact6663]

Impermanence is a part of life James, I learned about when I was going through a tough stretch in my life almost 4 years ago. The car comminity is and will always be here for you, this I know🙏

[@Azzaro-g6t]

The V10 is the best sounding engine ever.

[@joelhansen7373]

I despise the people who think if the car could be driven as a daily then it can't be a "real" super car. In their worldview a super car must make you suffer. The two biggest victims of this attitude have been the first NSX & later, the R8. Both were capable dailies & yet were completely competitive on the track.

[@maxmgquba8494]

Feel the exact same way

[@snagglebingle6969]

Well Jay , I gotta say at least that this car is very beautiful

[@GShockWatchFan.]

Gated shifter, nice.

[@anthhodgson7680]

I have a TTS but would love a R8.. especially after watching this..

[@majnuntech]

Can you also do a review of TT Mk3 ?

[@AlexanderPessuto]

Been thinking about all the cars we are losing lately to the modern world. This video is definitely going to sadden me :(

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

Wish they had fitted it with that delicious manual for one last edition of the R8

[@GT380man]

I glanced up a few times and it took me a few squints to realise you’re driving a range of R8s! What a shame that they’re killing off an iconic car, an entry-level Supercar.

[@peterfritzphoto]

You’re a properly decent bloke, James. I’ve been through the meat grinder myself, and I can assure you that brighter, lighter days lay ahead. Take care of yourself, mate. I appreciate and value the work you do. 👍🦘

[@adamhazell4474]

Good video mate!… I’m straight on the classifieds for another r8 😂

[@Xcfhkrs]

Keep up the excellent content James - if ever you’re in Cheshire and want to do any content on a 2019 W12 Bentley GTC or Audi R8 2015 4.2 / Audi RS5 2021 get in touch 👍🏻

[@lovielovegrove3403]

I used to drive my mums Datsun 120Y (Automatic)....brutal!!

[@daviddellit8344]

Thank you. Good one.

[@costafilh0]

Everyone: R8 is just a cheap Huracan! Audi: We will not make the R8 anymore, this is the last one Everyone: R8 is the best supercar bang for the buck and I want one, why are they stopping production?

[@pn_cy]

Thanks for another great review 👍😊