Possible R8 buyer with R Tronic question/concern

[wanichols]

I have a CLK 63 (AMG Meredes) and have been considering getting a R8. Test drove 2011 Spyder yesterday. Felt nice but the off the line acceleration had a serious lag and seemed rough. I did not try Sport mode.

It seems slow compared to my AMG. Is that a result of this transmission issue? Would love guidance on this as I loved the car but am concerned about the automatic trans. I use my paddle shifters now but want auto as I live in LA and traffic can suck...

[randombloke]

there can be a slight bogging (esp with all the driver aids engaged) - but I believe that's more to do with it being all-wheel drive.

not sure what you mean about a "transmission issue" - the v10 is a much quicker car than the clk 63 and I'd expect the v8 r8 to have the edge over the clk on a twisty road.

worth having a look at the r8 FAQ for more info and threads about the r-tronic:

FAQ: Audi R8 Introduction and Road Map to R8Talk.com

the key is that it a robotized version of the manual transmission rather than a torque converter auto like you have in the CLK. if buttery smooth shifts at slow speed is your bag then it's probably not the transmission for you - it comes into it's own when the pace builds.

[feudal serf]

Hi Wanichols,

I've been in my 5.2 manual for 2 months. Only now am I feeling the torque band vs RPM's and feeling really comfortable about what she can do. I had a biturbo S4 and the low rpm torque was engrained in my expectations. The 5.2 R8 comes alive above 5000 rpms.

The issue of r-tronic. My neighbor had 2 R8's in his basement. An R tronic 4.2 and manual 5.2. He is a car fanatic having owned ferrari's ect. His advice to me was get the manual because the r-tronic was much less intuitive.

There is much speculation regarding a double clutch version in the pipe.
Check this out:

http://www.gtspirit.com/2011/09/11/m...-2012-audi-r8/

At the risk of offending current r tronic owners, If i were you I'd wait for the updated transmission. Problem is...... waiting really sucks.

Cheers

[SebringSilver]

The R-tronic definitely has a steep learning curve. I had a C63 AMG previously, and you'll miss the "instant on" torque at first. But turn ESP off, and get used to the gearbox and you'll be fine.