Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Audi R8 review – performance and 0-60 time

The R8 doesn't feel as ballistic as it once did against modern turbocharged rivals, but its V10 engine is a masterpiece

Evo rating
Price
from £128,200
  • Drivetrain, performance, dynamics
  • Not as pretty as the original

With sophisticated launch control and rapid-shifting gearboxes, all R8s can record rapid 0-62mph times – 3.7sec for the RWD, 3.4sec for the RWD GT and 3.1sec for the Quattro.

Audi also quotes a top speed of 201mph for the RWD with the Quattro topping out at 205mph; the RWD GT falls just shy of 200mph due to its draggier high downforce aero setup. The Spyder versions of the RWD and Quattro reach 62mph just 0.1sec slower than their coupe counterparts, with 1mph slower top speeds. Although the Quattro offers higher performance than the rear-drive model on paper with a significant increase in power, the result isn’t that noticeable on the road. You’re never left wanting for more speed or quicker acceleration in the RWD, but if you do want the extra power of the Quattro, you can opt for one of the 15 RWD GTs coming to the UK fitted with the uprated 611bhp V10.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The scintillating engine creates such a vibrant environment in the cabin that ultimate performance is forgotten about. It sounds spectacular even with the standard exhaust, although there is an optional sports exhaust.

Being normally aspirated rather than turbocharged the R8’s V10 engine does need to be worked hard to deliver its best, but that isn’t a criticism by any means. In fact, hearing the exhaust note build to a crescendo as the rev needle swings past 8500rpm just once is enough to make you regret the industry’s shift towards turbocharging. The R8 might lack the thumping torque output of turbocharged rivals, such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S and Ferrari 296 GTB, but with so much power on tap it never feels anything less than frantically quick in a straight line. The Performance and RWD GT models in particular are still very capable of terrifying driver and passenger alike with their sheer speed.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

UK speeding fines 2024 – what are the latest penalties for drivers?
Speeding fines header
Advice

UK speeding fines 2024 – what are the latest penalties for drivers?

Here's everything you need to know about speeding fines in the UK and other possible motoring-related offences
18 Apr 2024
Mini Countryman JCW 2024 review – the most expensive Countryman is our least favourite
Mini Countryman JCW – front
Reviews

Mini Countryman JCW 2024 review – the most expensive Countryman is our least favourite

Mini has tried to make the 1.7-ton Countryman JCW drive like a hot hatch – the result is a compromised, frustrating driving experience
26 Apr 2024
The TWR Supercat is a 600bhp, widebody Jaguar XJS that costs £225,000
TWR Supercat – front
News

The TWR Supercat is a 600bhp, widebody Jaguar XJS that costs £225,000

Tom Walkinshaw Racing has built the ultimate Jaguar XJS, limited to just 88 units and costing £225,000 apiece
30 Apr 2024