Thinking of an everyday usable supercar other than a Porsche 911 will leave you pondering. Something well-built, sensationally fast, with a mid-engine, exotic looks, and affordable? That can only be the Audi R8. A used Audi R8 first generation can be yours for a reasonable price. However, with the planning to end production of the R8 next year, the German supercar will certainly become one of the all-time classics. Therefore, prices are rising, and now is the time to invest in this fabulous machine.

Looking back at this cool Audi reminds us of how good this car was. First shown at the 2006 Paris Motor Show, it debuted for the 2008 model year in the U.S., boasting a 420-hp, 4.2-liter V8 and receiving an excellent reception. What’s more, Audi had launched the fastest and most expensive vehicle in the company’s history, developed to take on the likes of the Nissan GT-R, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, and the mighty Porsche 911. This was Audi's first attempt at a supercar, and they spectacularly pulled it off. The ultra-modern design and raw performance sent shock waves in the sports car world, particularly the 911 fraternity.

Indeed, the automotive press praised its design, quality, and exceptional handling. The mid-engine sports car from Ingolstadt offered pure driving pleasure. The Audi R8 also remained the car of choice for Tony Stark throughout Marvel’s Ironman Trilogy. It's very likely that the car's appearance in the movie massively enhanced its kudos. For 2010, the long-anticipated arrival of the Audi R8 V10, with its engine derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo, allowed the R8 to rub shoulders with more powerful, exotic supercars.

A year later, Audi launched a convertible R8, followed by a GT version with 560 horsepower, of which Audi built only 333 units. Fast-forward to the present, and the first generation R8 still looks rather new. So, if you’re in the market for an everyday supercar, the Audi R8 ticks all the supercar boxes and is certainly worth considering.

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First-Gen Audi R8's Lambo-Shared Powerplant

Audi R8 V10 Engine
Via: Audi

Audi’s R8 is a useable, reliable, and easy-to-drive supercar. Unlike most of its Italian counterparts, the R8 is relatively docile around town yet still blisteringly fast around the track. Of course, you have the Quattro AWD system to get you out of trouble. Moreover, reports have suggested few problems with the first generation R8 with an overall good reliability score. There was always something special about the original R8. Granted, the 2015 updated R8 became faster and acquired modern switchgear, but for some, it had lost some appeal of the earlier car.

The naturally aspirated 4.2 liter V8, from Audi’s RS4 B7, delivered 420 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Moreover, the 0-60 mph sprint took just 4.5 secs and the R8 V8 comfortably topped 187 mph. As aforementioned, the R8 came equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive, with most of its power delivered to the rear wheels. With two transmission options available, the six-speed manual was the preferred choice over the slightly unrewarding, sequential R Tronic automated clutch unit. The impressive magnetic shock absorbers kept the car glued to the road, though they were available only as an expensive option.

The R8 used the same spaceframe structure as the Lamborghini Gallardo. Not only was the R8 a wide beast, but the engine placement also provided an impressive balance, which encouraged the driver to push the car to its limits. However, the R8 lacked the razor-sharp steering feel of the Porsche 911. When Audi united the R8 with the 5.2 V10 from the Lamborghini Gallardo, it boasted a stunning 525 horsepower. As a result, the sprint to 60 mph took only 3.9 secs and the car had a top speed over 190 mph, which was simply sensational.

Perhaps the installation of Lambo’s V10 powerplant was the point at which the R8 became regarded as a true supercar. Although the V8 model had less power than the larger engine R8, the chassis felt more agile and better balanced than the slightly heavier V10. Whichever you choose, the Audi R8 promises to provide one of the most exhilarating supercar experiences.

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Audi R8's Timeless And Unique Design

Audi R8 GT Side view
Via: Audi

The unmistakable shape sets the R8 apart from other supercars. From the intricate headlamp design to the signature side blades. Indeed, handsome design emanates from the R8 silhouette. Make no mistake, Audi tried to distinguish the R8 from the Lamborghini Gallardo.

The first-generation R8 still looks fresh today alongside newer supercars. The interior is well laid out, if somewhat conservative, with excellent ergonomics. Leather and Alcantara dominate. Although the hand-finished interior has good build quality, the dash architecture looks rather dated. However, the dials and switchgear are clear and unfussy, keeping up with Audi’s mantra.

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The Worth Of A First-Gen Audi R8 In 2022

Audi R8 rear third quarter ariel view
Via: Audi

So, the R8 is a very desirable and easy car to live with, but is it an affordable supercar? There’s no denying the costs of running and maintaining an Audi R8 are expensive. Expect to pay supercar prices for brakes, tires, and engine servicing.

Replacing magnetic dampers can be very costly. Notably, damaged aluminum body panels can be painfully expensive to repair. Financially, the Audi R8 V8 is the more sensible choice and is easier to live with than the mighty V10. When new, prices of the Audi R8 V8 would start from around $118,000 for the V8, with the V10 starting at around $150,000.

According to Classic, the average price today of the first-gen R8 is around the $70,000 mark for the V8 and $117,000 for the V10, with the V10 Spyder and GT models commanding a higher premium. Without a doubt, the Audi R8 is one of the most accomplished supercars that’s relatively affordable.

Sources: Audi, Classic.com