Forget The 911 Turbo - Here's Why An Audi R8 Is Just Better

[@nagylevi3827]

This is why I like JayEmm. When these cars were new, every reviewer took them to a track and judged them based on how they performed there. Utterly irrelevant! This is where the R8 belongs, this is where it shines and this is why you are right and all the naysayers were wrong.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

The really early R8s are still a bit disappointing, but they improved dramatically and the V10 is a masterpiece

[@Gorbyrev]

I drove a 997.1 GT3 and a V8 R8 back to back. I would take the Audi every time. The confidence of the rear biased 4wd, the sense that all four corners were properly planted and the accuracy of placement were all factors. To me the 911 always feels like you are rotating around the rear axle. I know some people love that but the R8 was the one that blew me away.

[@stephanosuk78]

Did a track day in V10 couldn't believe the performance.

[@davekennedy6315]

@@Gorbyrev and the R8 is far, far more usable in the UK on our poorly maintained and usually wet/damp roads. Also a 911 is a cool car but the R8 is the true supercar with its mid-engined layout, large capacity NA V8/10, incredible engine and exhaust soundtrack and of course those stunning supercar looks. They might have similar levels of performance but the R8 is the real deal.

[@keithjackson4985]

I like your comment, and I agree with you.

[@ederss7]

V10 + manual + open top = heaven

[@waynesimpson2074]

57 seconds of 'Mise En Scene' as the film directors call it. Truly brilliant, setting/enhancing the scene before any dialogue has commenced. JayEmm has come a long way in a short period of time. Thanks for the upload.

[@3ducs]

The first 20 minutes or so of Steve McQueen's Le Mans has no dialogue. IMHO it is the best racing movie I've seen.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Le Mans is an art film with cars

[@JohnFromAccounting]

People today lament that they missed the boat on the Honda NSX, on the Porsche 964, or even the A80 Supra. But we have affordable Audi R8s on the market. This is your chance to get a car that will be VERY desirable in the next 15-20 years. Unlike the legendary cars of the fast, the Audi R8 is a modern car. Cars haven't changed very much since it came out. They're very safe. They're very fast. They're very reliable. The first generation has aged incredibly well, and if you buy a manual, that could be worth 20% more once these cars become sought after collectors items.

[@MrBurgaBoii]

The R8 is one of the few cars that will stand it’s age I mean just look at it…it’s absolutely stunning even 10/12 years on

[@rahulmandala4930]

Seriously a 4.2 V8 with a gated manual shifter is just a simple, but tasty combo that just becomes more and more desirable. But the V10 is also rad! Can’t go wrong with either

[@Sebb747]

Also, the interior held up really well. Most cars from that era look atrocious with their early attempts at infotainment; this interior looks really good, still.

[@johntearle]

I agree. I think they nailed it with the design.

[@KN-jw7ts]

Do u think a v8 manual will be a collectible someday?

[@chartreux1532]

I own a Audi R8 V8 with Manual since 2012 (2010 Model with 17000km when i bought it) and it has now 153000km on the clock (which is like 95000 miles). I drove it almost daily, i drove it every 2 weeks to France from here in Germany and besides Regular Maintenance at Audi i had never any Issues, nothing broke down, the only "issue" i had once was a Warning Light popping up randomly, but that was just an Electronic Issue, it basically went on without any Reason whatsoever. So these are indeed worth the Money and insanely reliable.

[@strongerandwiser2023]

The 911's hold their value really well too. Thats one thing people forgot about. The old 911 turbo's have hardly lost any money when compared with r8's etc. Deffo a big factor when buying a car is how much will it be worth in 5 years time. 911 probably similar to what you paid for it in the first place if your buying pre owned. If anything they seem to still be going up. The fuel economy on the porsches is surprisingly good too when compared to supercars like the r8's v10/v8's and ferrari v12's etc. You just get alot more for your money with a 911 and I think thats why people do it. The dealer experience at porsche is second to none too. Ive had 3 of them and loved going there. Audi however is the total opposite. I went it to look at an rs3 ended up walking out because of how little the staff there cared and how rude they where. From what I can see, its very common at Audi dealerships. They sell so many cars they couldnt care less who walks through the door and what they are interested in.

[@Malar1898]

You can't compare a RS3 (which you find everywhere since moms use it as grocery getters) to the R8. Atleast thats what i had fun about with my Gen1 V10+, bought it, drove it 10k kilometers and sold it for 5k more.

[@saxon-mt5by]

So that's good news for anyone buying second-hand! Why pay Porsche's over-inflated prices when you can get a bargain-priced R8?

[@strongerandwiser2023]

@@Malar1898 When was I comparing an rs3 to an r8 ? I was talking about my experience going into an audi dealer. Which was shocking.

[@chartreux1532]

+Delta BoXeR Depends on where you live. In Germany both the R8 and 911s are as common as Beers in Supermarkets. Which on the other Hand is not a bad thing because they're worth the Money. I own a 2010 Audi R8 V8 with Manual and have over 150000km on it (bought at 17000km) and besides regular Maintenance, no issues whatsoever and if i'd want to sell it now, i'd still get around 40-45k Euros. But then, i'm in Germany, obviously the R8s and 911s of any Type are far more common here than in other Countries

[@JohnFromAccounting]

Cars become classics after 15-20 years and then become very sought after and desirable. There's still time left to get the first generation R8 for cheap while the second generation is winding down. In a few years time you'll be wondering why you didn't pounce sooner.

[@markalden]

I’ve had mine for 7months.. Not quite the V10 but god I love my R8. Always been my dream

[@lrs3]

I love the styling of the old 2007 R8. So cool. The fact that these came in a manual always shocks me for some reason.

[@darchandarchan7036]

with that carbon blade on each side ♥️

[@Iceeeen]

They are one of they most horrible looking "super car" on the road. Silver plate on the side on coupe makes you want to barf .

[@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju]

@@DaleSteel horrible take

[@cj09beira]

imo these first R8s are much much better looking than the newer ones, specially the face-lifted ones, with honorable mention to the v12 tdi concept for that more aggressive look. the moment they removed the dide blade from the car and moved to the same hard corners design of the lambos it lost all sharm.

[@matrinezkevin11492]

@@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju literally such a bad take he has to like his own comment. Older R8 looks better than all of these new supercars that look like an automotive designer had sex with a geometric avante garde painting.

[@eddiericks6554]

The v10 is my next step b4 they go up in price the r8 is one of the best looking car in automotive history 😊

[@clu4u]

It’s too heavy, 1700 kilos is about 3750 lbs. My 981 Spyder is listed as 2899 lbs. Light is right.

[@mrsmooth224]

I pick my 2010 spyder up this week, cant wait! White, red leather, black wheels and carbon pack.

[@aj_mcnamara]

Don't tell people about these cars, I've been saving up for one and don't want the value to go up. Haha, very good video and breakdown to its competitors.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

Fr haha

[@marvin4827]

I've always car reviewers like Jay over Schmee & the like, simply because they drive cars on review in a real everyday setting. The common folks can relate to the info presented. No snobbery here, just pure fun & excitement for the true car enthusiast. Keep it coming.

[@howarddavies136]

Spot on! Schmee hypes the shit out of everything and it never feels genuine. James feels a lot more balanced and honest. And he covers joyous little shitboxes from time to time. That's what cars are about, its character and sensation, not the latest and greatest. Harry has a similar vibe.

[@marvin4827]

@@howarddavies136 You couldn't have said it better. Some automotive journalists never ever review the average every day car. They only focus on the latest 'toys' for the boys with billions to toss around...

[@christinecrockford1654]

I've a 2011 white Audi v10 r8 spyder too and I love it and way fast scares me silly and not once been able to put my foot to the floor in any gear. You get lots off looks and nice comments. I love to share. My car was once owned by Gairth Bale too.

[@trevorleggo1777]

Another wonderful review of what is probably the only car I would consider over the 911, your frank and unbiased opinions are always refreshing, more please.

[@mrkmcknz]

The best thing about the R8 is you can walk into the dealer and buy a new one at the list price. I love Porsche but the stupid games you need to play for a GT product is getting old.

[@davethornton1822]

Hi James - nice to meet you at Goodwood, when you mentioned this forthcoming video. I think you’ve convinced me that a 997 turbo isn’t the next car for me after my R8 V8 - it’s a V10 like this! To the other viewers - a 911 is undoubtedly a great car but for every R8 on the road there are 10 911s! And as for whether it is a supercar or not, the R8 doesn’t need to answer that question.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yep, from a 911 it has to be either this or an Aston

[@bb57365]

I have a v10 6 speed Spyder. You did it justice.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I'm glad! Thanks for watching

[@englishjames007]

The videos are really polished nowadays, they used to be good, but you've stepped up a level. Keep'em coming, mate 👍

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That's the plan!

[@malcolmhardwick4258]

Jay knows what he's doing !

[@bryanlatimer7653]

this is my number one choice for any foreign sports car. IT WOULD BE THIS ONE IN EXACTLY THIS DELIVERY! the color, engine, convertible, manual are all SPOT ON PERFECTION!!!

[@williamfence566]

First saw one on the road around 2008 and thought that looks ok then he started it up. That was a double take moment . Great review

[@NAmania]

Call me biased but if I had that kind of money to spend on buying a car in these price segments, it would HAVE to be naturally aspirated. The sound and feel they give you must be unreal (even my K20 makes me feel like Im driving something much more special and exotic than the price of my car would suggest).

[@johntearle]

I feel the same way! The sound is a critical part of the equation for me, it is probably the main emotional factor and I think the V10 sounds incredible.

[@meekrab9027]

Completely agree, you can't use 80% of the performance of cars at this level on a trip to the shops, but you do get a chance to hear the engine every stoplight.

[@BigUriel]

You can also get this supercharged for around 750hp, and still NA-like sound and throttle response. That must really be something else to drive.

[@gedb6099]

@@BigUriel and you’ll be putting a new gear box in it in no time… weak point on these especially the s tronic

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

You have a point. WHAT THE HELL IS a K20, however?

[@jongib6096]

Great review. agree 100%, The R8, v10 is a far more exotic place to be than a 911 👌🏼

[@Finkjam]

I love the intro to these, nothing flashy just simply let the car and noise do the talking. The R8 is definitely a supercar in my eyes, it’s just stunning but more so the earlier cars. Nice to see another film in Scotland too! There’s some epic locations further north that would make quite a backdrop if you ever fancy 👍🏻

[@JayEmmOnCars]

My recent 360 video was filmed a little further north

[@163mph]

Don’t agree, I’ve lived & daily driven both & the R8 was a face lift 2018 v10+ spyder. The 997.2 had more space & in real world driving was just more practical to daily drive, after the first couple of weeks the v10 novelty wore off as a daily, it was too loud @ 06:30 when I left for work & didn’t have a big enough fuel tank meaning fuel stops over couple of days, if your look for weekend, Sunday morning fun machine, the Audi wins, but for a daily driver the 911 is more of everything…. I’m now daily driving an SL63, with a light tune.. by far the best daily I’ve ever had - keep up with the great content, loving the channel 👊

[@beakersgarage383]

As you're a former owner I'd love to get your opinion. I daily drive a 981 Cayman with the PDK transmission. Is a manual R8 worth getting as a weekend car or am I better off saving money and getting a Miata? I've been back and forth with several model options and I don't quite know what direction I should go. The cars I've thought of so far...R32 GT-R, Miata, R8, 360 (before the price jumped), 456M, V8 Vantage, S2000, Elise, 1Gen Evora.

[@163mph]

@@beakersgarage383 that’s a broad choice, the R8 is a great car, I ’d drive them all & make the call, maybe add a something spicy (Viper ACR)

[@markhalton2584]

Hmmm, whilst I don’t disagree the 911 is more practical as a daily, (that’s why I’ve owned every 911 model since the 996), I’m now an R8 convert. Yer the 911 is more practical, but the R8 is more special in so many ways. Faster, better handling for us mere mortals thanks to its 4wd, an incredible noise, and if you like attention it always pulls a crowd.

[@timmietz]

I own a 2014 face-lifted R8 V10 Spyder 6MT. It was the first supercar that I had ever purchased in 2016. It is magnificent. I have since bought several other supercars (including another audi V10 car - the STO) but I am hoping to never sell my R8. It is truly special.

[@paulholmes8398]

The R8 has always been far more desirable to me than a 911 (maybe on par with a 997.2 turbo or GT3). Especially the early manual v10s understated supercar.

[@tomhegedosh5487]

They’re $200k today. Not underrated

[@JBsC6]

The early r8 s are beautiful. A little pricey and a concern of cracking chassis on the early example... the second generation r8 probably is a smarter purchase? For the money here in the states a corvette c8 is the winner (starts at 65k here)

[@reissfullspeedahead]

Picked mine up back in May. Flew one way, then drove it 1300 miles home. Drive of a lifetime.

[@esthetics4512]

Enjoy that thing sir

[@10000vmesac]

Great choice) What spec did you buy? V10 manual or V8? What can you say after 2 years of ownership?

[@reissfullspeedahead]

@@10000vmesac 2012 V10 R-tronic (auto). I absolutely love it. The same reason people hate on the R-tronic, I love it. It's clunky and you feel the shifts. DIY maintenance is cheap and easy to do.

[@10000vmesac]

@@reissfullspeedahead So you recomend even R tronic over manual?

[@reissfullspeedahead]

@@10000vmesac No, BUT you can convert R-tronic trans to Manual pretty easily.

[@coastalrider1155]

Remember when the r8 v10 was launched and the advert was the engine going through the gears best car advert ever

[@aljack1979]

I agree, you can get an early california for £60k now, cheaper that a early F430 which prices are on the rise. Madness.

[@Djwatzy]

The dedication to short sleeve shirts and head mounted sunglasses is nothing short of spectacular. My only gripe would be that the shirts have become tame in comparison to previous years 😁👍

[@francescoparillo8664]

I absolutely love the R8. Thanks for the video; you are the hardest working car guy on KZbin!

[@andystreet4022]

I've just toured West Wales in an Audi Mk3 TTS on some of the best roads in the British Isles. Yes it was an automatic but the sun shone for 5 days, it's the Quattro model and the sound of the quad exhaust system echoing all around with the roof down, was a joy. Not a supercar but it is a super car and the smiles per miles will stay long in the memory.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Awesome car. Love that blue colour. Nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@nicholasevennett8231]

I've gone from Gen I R8 (V8), to Gen II R8 V10+, to 991.2 GTS. My son travels often with me in the rear seat, so I "need" the rear seats. But I still went and looked at the classifieds after this. Oh how I miss that V10, and yes I would go fill fat stupid and get the convertible if I went there again

[@johntheaccountant5594]

Put the son in for adoption.....................LOL

[@cj09beira]

@@johntheaccountant5594 or who ever is riding shotgun.

[@TheBenchPressMan]

just buy an r8 and a shit box, no idea why anyone NEEDS to drive their expensive car as a daily. I don’t mind diving around in a ford focus form 2005, because i’ve got a G wagon at home which i don’t put the miles on. When i want to do something nice, i bring the G out.

[@jerrydawg4434]

Interesting video title, last winter I brought my 911 in for its annual service in front of me was a stunning R8. I was talking to the service tech who I know very well and commented about what an amazing car the R8 is and his comment to me was it is an amazing car unless you like driving it because it's here five times a year for service and failures. The most recent issue was a $9,000 coolant repair. My response was they can't all be like that and he looked at me with raised eyebrows, you'd be surprised.

[@covvy]

You took an Porsche to an Audi service agent?

[@jerrydawg4434]

@@covvy lmfao. The local porsche dealer of 40 years is also the audi vw Maserati dealer.... same service intake.... but I'm glad that is what you got from my comment.

[@jerrydawg4434]

@@ezmaass not according to my dealer.... just what the tech told me.....

[@BigUriel]

@@jerrydawg4434 They only see the ones that break, not the ones that don't. Take it with a grain of salt. I've heard a few horror stories with Porsches too. And having done a few basic repairs on a couple I can tell you that at least with the Cayman/Boxster the amount of work to get anything done in the engine bay is ridiculous, it might be better with the 911 because of the engine in the back but any mid engine car will be a nightmare to work on which translates into lots of labour costs whenver anything breaks. I'd say anyone looking for a sports car that will have reasonable(ish) maintenance costs (including as much DIY as possible) buy something with the engine in front, it does make a difference.

[@jerrydawg4434]

@@BigUriel so the dealer does service on these cars not just repair...they see every car in the area once a year regardless. the 911 is strangley reliable.... I've had 4 over 17 years, they never break down. To get to my GTS engine for service the rear bumper comes off in 10 minutes..... better access than a chevy silverado....

[@Nick-vp7lp]

Omg the sound track is insane 😍 Gated manual, V10 behind you, it doesn't get much better than that!

[@amanite5845]

It does in a Gt3 at 9000 RPM 😏

[@dariag505]

has both - a 991 tt and 2012 r8 manual. selling the r8 is my biggest regret. had x pipe exhaust - rained thunder. and manual. what a mistake letting that go

[@alastairblair]

Thanks!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That's extremely kind, thankyou!

[@9and3]

Hey James, awesome review and I'd agree 100%. I've just finished driving a 2010 V10 Manual Spyder around France with my wife, we did 6,000km over 5 weeks in it and I loved every minute. We proved you can do a trip like this in a car like this with just 2 carry on bags :) Ricky at RE Performance put a new clutch in for and serviced it before my trip - he's a R8 legend. I KZbind our trip on our channel because this has been a bucket list thing to do ever since I laid eyes on the R8 in 2008 when I saw one in a New Zealand (where I live) showroom. Fun fact, I also own a 1974 Audi Coupe S which I know you've also reviewed. Anyway. love love love your work, keep it up.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

The S Coupe is beautiful! Such a nice car. Glad your road trip went well and yes, Ricky is a legend

[@JAYPCARS]

It has to be the perfect way into “supercar” ownership, if we can call it a supercar? In my opinion, yes it is.

[@BenB91]

The biggest problem with the R8 is the bland interior and standard seats.

[@Tiax776]

See, when a car is set up properly, there are no stupid crackles or pops or bangs (which are just noises for idiots) and the car sounds wonderful.

[@OEMplusRESTO]

Pops and bangs are used by manufacturers to compensate for a dull sounding exhaust.. emmissions regulations and turbos are major players here

[@esthetics4512]

Absolutely agree💯💯

[@chrisogrady28]

R8 V10 manual Spyder is one of my top picks for a future classic

[@coltuppal]

The 911 turbo is better in every way except maybe the noise. You can use it every day has more room is faster handles better etc.......

[@fintan.]

by far your best video here mate i really appreciate your comparisons to direct competition and the history behind it all, brilliant stuff

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks!

[@edwartvonfectonia4362]

First gen Audi R8 V10 two tone paint (dark grey main and silver sides) is one of my dream cars. Truly amazing and much better looking than the new ones personally.

[@crossphaded]

Gen 1 R8 ☑️ V10 ☑️ Gated manual ☑️ Sepang Blue ☑️ You are spot on, Jay! (I'm biased. I own one, only a coupe in the same spec with Tuscan brown seats) Long live the R8! 🤟🏾Gated V10's in the US don't go for less than $125k at the moment. Car enthusiasts know it's a future classic.

[@viniciusmagnoni6492]

Lucky Basterd...👏🏻

[@vincentschneuwly9783]

I looking to buy a 911 cause I need the back seats for my 2 years old princess, otherwise I won't have much opportunities to enjoy the car. But I couldn't agree more: a V10 R8 is a hell of value, sure the 911 Turbo S was quicker and more practical or the GT3 was way sharper and faster on track but when it comes to that "supercar vibe" and enjoying it on a real road the R8 shines, and when you start to think about nowadays prices...

[@aljack1979]

Princesses deserve to sit up front.. Get the r8😂

[@vincentschneuwly9783]

@@aljack1979 well time has past and I am actually the happy owner of a 911 Turbo Cabriolet with my almost 3 three years old now enjoying the back seats even with the top down, I don't think her mother would allow me to have her on the front seats and would be also illegal here

[@jonathanhiener2463]

Sadly this car will never be anything but an aspirational dream for me, but I think the R8 was the last supercar to garner my attention. Maybe it was the fact that it was one of the final manual supercars, potentially it was the futuristic styling with LED DRLs and carbon intake panels - in reality it was probably watching VW pull up on the world stage and deliver what would become an unforgettable icon that had my attention from day one. Thanks for covering this one James, keep up the great work.

[@montgd]

I have a V10 manual 'vert with an exhaust and revised suspension. It's an amazing machine, easy to own and joyous to drive. Much more pricy here in USA tho, you guys in UK should be snapping them up while you can.

[@shaking6360]

How much does maintenance costs, yearly?

[@montgd]

@@shaking6360 So far very little. I've had it about a year, just about to book first service. Will be a basic oil change and component check at an independent dealer, just a few hundred $.

[@robsmith1a]

I've never liked the styling of the R8 or 911. The main issue with the Audi is how wide it is. Nice honest appraisal as always - thank you.

[@KN-jw7ts]

Right? Why it looks so cool on the road!

[@robsmith1a]

@@ezmaass Driving a wide car briskly down a British B road is quite difficult, you have to keep slowing down for oncoming traffic. I'm sure it helps grip and handling but something the width of an MX-5 much more fun in most road conditions in my opinion. Each to their own though.

[@robsmith1a]

@@KN-jw7ts Only my opinion. I find something jarring about the looks of both of them. I am in the minority though, most friends think they look great.

[@primitiv114]

What?

[@MrRoyck10]

I have the to say as a Porsche-file that the R8 looks and sounds more special than the 911 Turbo albeit with an interior that reminds me of my Audi TT, it would have been very special if not for the interior used across pretty almost every Audi. This review is simple excellent!

[@RedLP5000S]

*Porschephile

[@dirtygrill]

All they needed to do was make the optional buckets standard. But Audi does love an options list. Shame.

[@detonator2112]

If Porsche is the Rolex, Audi is like Omega. Even if they build better car it will never have the same brand prestige.

[@sultanoftippoo3857]

Spot on analogy, the people I know who drive Porsches all wear Rolex’s.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

Who cares. I’d still take a NA V10 Gated Manual than a TT V6 Porsches

[@R-Tap]

The sound is worth the entry fee. Manual, V10, convertible in THAT blue. Class.

[@oliverkromann1902]

i had no idea the R8 was a Gallardo in disguise, and a better looking car at that

[@sedrabilal6663]

Anybody can be controversial and be uninteresting, but jayemm is controversial and yet the most interesting. We all need abit jayemm in us. Be different yet astonishingly interesting.

[@hazish]

That over the shoulder shot through the twistys was awesome! More of that!

[@tonyj99999]

As I'm laid up with another dose of COVID (crap one this time.. ,😢) this is the perfect antidote. James, you never fail to impress and entertain. I just wish I could afford one of those!!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Tony! Hope you get better soon

[@Rich.Aardvark]

I drove one on an experience day. At first I was gutted because it wasn't my first choice and I worked for Audi. But It was one of my best drives ever!

[@TheBeast-ub9jo]

I do like the 5.2l version of the R8. But I would still have a Porsche just for overall practicality (boot space, fuel consumption, back seat to throw things/extra luggage space, reliability and it’s a PORSCHE-not an Audi

[@chubbsmasterson]

That opening there showcasing the R8 was stunning

[@modmod392]

Love the manual box on these.

[@_BitJager_]

30s in. Need new pants. Glorious engine!!!

[@johnslater2488]

All good and valid points JayEmm, major problem though is that the R8 is shortly to be discontinued, after just two iterations. The 911 story was built over the past 58 years not just the past 16, with no real philosophical commitment from the VW group. The Golf Gti has vastly more heritage than the R8. Hence the issue with resale.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

However once the car is canned, good chances values may rise further as people begin to appreciate how unexpected it was

[@Mac_F87]

The VAG V10 is one of the best sounding engines for sure. Exactly what I loved about the two RS3's I have owned as well. Very similar sound, stands to reason since the V10 is essentially two 07K's cast together.

[@bazmina]

I drove the current era v10+ and disapointing. It was germanic perfect, but missed the character of other supercars. But im told the 1st gen is much much better. Plus it looks much better too

[@johntearle]

I think the manual makes a big difference!

[@primitiv114]

I got mine three weeks ago and I cannot but agree on these words! Peter

[@mugenmark]

Drove a 911 GT3 and a V10 R8 at Brands Hatch once. Would have an R8 in a heartbeat if I was in the market. As easy to drive as an Audi but clocked just over 130mph on the short start / finish straight with an ex BTCC driver beside me saying “not bad that”, with that glorious engine wailing away.

[@dirtygrill]

Great review! I have this same car in red. I wasn't a convertible guy before but now I couldn't imagine having anything else. Love this car.

[@howarddavies136]

Is it an 8? Is it a 10? 🚙🎶 definitely a 10 👌

[@robbiewilson2217]

Just bought one based on your review and i love it! Thank you 🙌

[@Lukec4ge]

Another great vid, and a worthy argument

[@wads80z]

All jayemm says is true, but as a friend who was shopping for a 911 turbo or Aston said when i suggested an R8 - “what, did i make estate agent of the month?”. Sadly at 140k badge matters :/

[@timmietz]

Fun fact: this Graciano manual box was use the the R8s, Gallardos, Aston DBS and F430 6MT. I own 3 out of the 4 of these. The DBS application is the best IMHO.

[@jammyjim69]

Sounds awesome. Lovely car. Would rather have that than a 911

[@imxenoify]

The intro song makes me dance more than I'd like to admit😂 makes me feel like I'm tuning into my favorite TV show everytime

[@JohnDoe-re1ll]

"in the end you'll be totally miserable..." Owning a Ferrari sounds a lot like being married.

[@GlennsCarCollection]

Great video. I own both. My R8 is a V10 manual. I had a 993 Turbo and currently a 2017 911 with turbos. If the R8 was a V10 manual. I prefer the R8. If a V8 R8, I probably prefer my 911’s. Keep up the good work.

[@HumbleHonkingEnthusiast]

Excellent video. I think the r8 is timeless and one of the best super are ever made

[@AgSmithsilversmith]

There is no other KZbinr who's videos I would watch when they don't even start talking about the car they are reviewing until five and a half minutes into the video!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou for your patience!

[@johntearle]

Thanks for a great day James. It's a great video and I am glad you enjoyed the car.

[@p.h.234]

The sound of the car during the intro could've been justification enough for why.

[@SonicMrSumo]

Ironman's assistant (Pepper) also had a V8 S5...what a car! Please take out one of them soon(ish)? Great vid!

[@cliffrusselliv7642]

Great video! I think this is the first time I’ve seen old footage used in a current film. I have a 2015 V8 and paid $87,500. It’s was the least expensive of that year or newer at the time. I just don’t understand the difference in price if bought in Great Britain. I can’t imagine a convertible V10 manual here in the states for $60,000!

[@IverKnackerov]

Try $10 per gallon (and that’s US gallons, not UK) to fuel it. That’s why !

[@surrealtom]

@@IverKnackerov also tax and insurance

[@ErikWP]

The R8 was never designed as a convertible. When management decided to make a convertible they had to do a lot of redesign which came with short cuts.

[@johntheaccountant5594]

I do prefer the manual coupe Audi R8 over the convertible.

[@Alejandro_BoniIIa]

As a mechanical engineering student, the R8 and the vantage of that era seem like the perfect first sports car for after I graduate. That is, in a few years when I get a real engineering job and salary. I’m keeping my eyes on the prices

[@johnshaw359]

Seems like a very good compromise car and somewhat sensible. Always found this car a bit difficult to mentally categorize.

[@johntearle]

Some people see it as a souped up Audi that is not as special as everyone thinks it is. Some see it as a Lamborghini that competes with Ferraris on the road, and a lower price. Personally, I agree with what I think James is saying in this video. It offers the supercar looks, sounds and performance of the Ferrari, with most of the benefits of the Porsche. A baby supercar that is a great first step into proper supercar ownership. I love it!

[@jjefferyworboys8138]

Even at the age of 67, I don't do sensible. Buy what makes you feel good !

[@johnshaw359]

@@jjefferyworboys8138 Yep, I think the sensible bit is what "holds it back" in this outré class of car.

[@johntearle]

Possibly so and certainly for some. But at it's price, there is little that can compete. £60K for a manual V10!

[@RumblestripDotNet]

In America, if you want a manual V10 R8, you are going to be spending between $120,000 and $180,000 for one.

[@rjhandley556]

Hey JayEmm a while ago I commented on your f12 and commented it was and still is your best video. This one comes in at number 2 for me. Great video thank you

[@johnpelzmann5885]

Great realistic review, you are the man Jay!

[@00international]

Would you rather this or a F430 spider manual?

[@johntearle]

My POV, as the owner of the R8 in this video: I would love the F430 Spider Manual and if they were the same price to buy and run as the R8, I would probably swap. Primarily for emotional reasons of always wanting a Ferrari. However, the F430 was simply not affordable for me and even if I had a bigger budget, something like double the cost is a massive difference. It would be interesting to drive them back to back and see how different they are. My hypothesis is there would be differences in the driving experience that people would care about, but for most novice but enthusiastic drivers (like me), the differences would not be huge.

[@00international]

@@johntearle thanks for your Comment John. I have been so close to getting a F430. But the R8 price point does make so much more sense.

[@cervelo9465]

The only think lacking is that the Audi badge is rather common. I found car on autotrader being sold by farlan automotive, V10 model, 62 reg, price £51,950. Sinclair is selling an almost brand new for £156,000. Based on these market prices, the 10 year old car is available for about 34% of the as-new price. £50k for a car which would cost you about £160k to buy new. It cannot be bad. The badge and the interior do not give me the fizz. it is essentially basically a Lambo Gallardo, but for a lot less money.

[@SharpblueCreative]

My favourite iteration of the R8 - prefer the look of the coupe V10 version pre facelift. I’d love to see one of these with the new front end from the V10+ but keep the rear and side blades of the earlier version. My boss has the latest iteration of the V10+ which I lovely

[@anthonyprice3353]

Jay. As an owner of a 991.2 turbo may I educate you. 10.7 second quarter mile 0-62 in 2.8 seconds It will out handle almost anything Make no mistake sir, this is a balls out supercar & this is BEFORE we get to the turbo S. I emplore you to drive/review a 991.2 turbo or turbo S I see many 997's on your channel, an absolute beast to be sure. The 991 is a whole other animal.

[@floridabill5494]

It’s not about the speed all of the time. The R8 gives goosebumps every time those revs reach 8700 rpm

[@anthonyprice3353]

@floridabill5494 absolutely agree with you on that. I'm probably gonna get one!

[@whalecove1283]

The V8 hardtop is the one for me. Never cared for the supercar argument, a great many of those are crap to own or drive. Good going, Jay.

[@BenzinioB]

I find the spider prettier then the coupe, and actually earlier today I was arguing about 911 - while people say it is good all rounder as it offer comfort and usability while remain sporty - we can also say that it hesitant what it is - neither very good in comfort like real GT neither (apart of GT3 range) poise, precise and trilling like the dedicated sport cars. I was huge 911 fan, but now I'm changing my mind you cant really sit on two chairs comfortably.

[@richardstoddard6647]

Best description yet. “Theatre at 20 miles an hour” 👏👏

[@seinsmeld13]

Great review Jay. My 2020 718 Spyder is great, however, it doesn't carry my golf clubs so I need a second car. When it comes time to get rid of my Porsche I'll take a look at one of these gems.