The cockpit of the car is obviously well-finished, but it's a little dark and monotonous. The shift gate is exposed, and the clanking noise while you change gears is marvellous as it makes you feel like a race car driver.

The front trunk is oddly shaped, but a carry-on hard suitcase will fit in the R8's snout. At least there's cargo room for weekend getaways.

The R8 is a rolling advertisement.

Competition
The 2008 Audi R8 starts out at $139,000, and a navigation system adds $2,900 to the price. Fully loaded, the car will top $170,000. Here are a few rivals:

BMW M6, 500 hp, $128,300
Cadillac XLR-v, 443 hp, $115,140
Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 505 hp, $96,170
Dodge Viper SRT10, 600 hp, $99,600
Jaguar XKR, 420 hp, $104,000
Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, 518 hp, $151,500
Nissan GT-R, 480 hp, $81,900
Porsche 911 Turbo, 480 hp, $158,300

However, only the Nissan and the Porsche offer all-wheel drive like the R8.

Conclusion
The Audi R8 isn't the quickest car you can buy for the price, or the most prestigious for that matter. It also has its little shortcomings, but right now, you won't see many on the road, and its eye-catching looks will get everyone's attention. If that's what you want, look no further.

It's a bargain if you compare it to a Ferrari or a Lamborghini, but more expensive than some high-powered adversaries that are just as thrilling to drive; the Nissan GT-R comes to mind.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert