Audi R8 Gen 2 Discussion

Audi Models
1

I’ve been looking to pick up a sports car that I can essentially keep ‘forever’ (not literally forever, but with the intent that I will not be selling it). I’m considering the Porsche GT4 (new/close to new, less than 20,000 miles) and the best Gen 2 R8 I can get within a similar price range. I understand the differences between the cars, but I honestly like both for different reasons. I would like to know your thoughts on this.

A couple of questions:

  1. I know Porsche likes to support their cars forever; can I expect the same for the R8? If I’m keeping it for a long time, will I still have OEM/aftermarket support?

  2. How will the reliability hold up over time? I considered the C8, but the transmission issues concern me, especially knowing I might need to pay $20k for a full replacement. Is there a similar concern for the R8?

  3. What about the running costs? I won’t say it won’t be a daily driver, but I work from home, and I don’t get snow here. I understand the R8 is the cheapest supercar to maintain, but how does it compare to the GT4?

This could realistically be my last gas sports car, depending on the direction of electric vehicles. The GT4 and the R8, while on different sides of the spectrum, are two good options. I’d love to hear some logistics and outside opinions.

2

Save yourself the money and the headache.

3

I would go with the GT4. Porsches are extremely reliable and, as you mentioned, have long-term support. The R8 is no longer being produced. The C8 is a fantastic car, but it doesn’t feel as special as the GT4. Any of the three will cost a fortune if you need to replace a trans or motor. I was at my local Audi dealership a couple of months ago, and there was an R8 in the shop for a new engine—$74k! That was an insurance claim due to a metal rod piercing the engine block, but if it were just an engine failure, the cost would be similar. I love Audis and Corvettes, but the GT4 is just a special machine.