Why did you select an Audi R8?

[utah]

I’m waiting for delivery of the R8, it’s my first Audi and I would be interested in other opinions about why you selected the R8.

For me it was a high performance sports car that had the following characteristics.
-Stunning yet refined looks (ladies just won’t go for the Nissan GTR)
-Reliable and easy to maintain (close to Dealer Service Centers)
-Perfect combination of daily driver comfort and on track performance
-Easy, predictable handling - especially on the track *

Judging from the posts it seems the opinions vary a lot by driver type:
1) R8 used exclusively on the road (no track time)
2) R8 as daily driver plus a bit of track time
3) Weekend track warriors (folks who live for their track time )

I am in category 2. I would gladly let the track warriors pass me to keep my health and my car in good condition.

* I was seriously considering a 997TT. When I saw some 997TTs at the track they all appear to tail wag in the esses which is undesirable for me. (And the 911 is a tired design – apologies in advance to the Porsche enthusiasts)

[randombloke]

For me the r8 is a car to drive whenever I don't need to carry masses of luggage and when the weather isn't too bad to really enjoy it on the roads - I have an a4 for that duty.

Big issues for me were the looks, sound, awd, dealer network (ruled out a lambo) and the mix of power/handling (inc the r-tronic). I knew going into it that it wouldn't be as fast as the m6 it was replacing in a straight line which was he m6's trump card but have found the r8's handling and real world twisty road pace to deliver a better overall experience for me.

I too considered the 997tt and was all set bar the test drive, but that car didn't deliver for me outside of balls to the wall driving which came as a bit of a shock as on paper the specs looked great.

[vjma]

It's an Audi. Enough says....

[800]

can i simply say "because my wife approves.". actually it is a good balance between daily drive and exotic.

[SFR8]

For me: exotic look without the exotic price and reliability, reliable, 4-year warranty, daily-drivability, mid-engine configuration, normally aspirated engine.

As an overall package, it is somewhere between a 997TT and F430.

I too also considered a 997TT but was ultimately turned away by its tired design, turbo lag, rear engine layout, and lack of visual excitement/passion.

IMO, the R8 targets the 997TT, M6, and SL AMG buyers and is a great alternative.

[utah]

Seems like a few of have considered 997TT.
Other cars I considered were the classy Aston Martins (DB/Vantage) but their performance and handling are not up to par and I was concerned about reliability.

I looked at the BMW M3 which is a fine car but I did not want a coupe/sedan body style because they tend to body roll a bit more on sharp mountain turns compared to lower center of gravity cars like Porsche or R8.

My wife has the new SL63AMG and it is a huge improvement over past SL's which we have owned. It has a wider stance, more stable, a new Multi Clutch that is incredible. Great looking and handling car but like most Mercedes it is a very heavy car. HOWEVER - the R8 will kick the SL63's behind (I know she's lurking here)

[Inrev]

The looks and the mid-engine along with the interior quality and every day driving qualities made it the best car for me. Considered the 997 2S but too many of those around here.

[SLR8]

My wife has the new SL63AMG and it is a huge improvement over past SL's which we have owned. . . HOWEVER - the R8 will kick the SL63's behind (I know she's lurking here)

My "heavy" SL63 AMG will beat your R8 easily! You just wait and see. My car's race-start function will leave you crying in the dust! I can't wait to take your R8 on! Signed: Your wife

[imclueless]

Girls car....

[Inrev]

My "heavy" SL63 AMG will beat your R8 easily! You just wait and see. My car's race-start function will leave you crying in the dust! I can't wait to take your R8 on! Signed: Your wife

They had one of those at the grand prix this weekend, looks and sounds badass!!!