The Audi R8 Spider: A Performance Car for the Ages
We recently had the opportunity to test drive two different versions of the Audi R8, both of which promised to deliver exceptional performance and handling. The first car we tested was an older model, a post-facelift version with a PPF (Performance Package Front axle) that added weight and altered the suspension setup. Despite its heavier weight, this R8 still managed to put up a respectable fight on the track, and its unique sound profile made it an absolute blast to drive.
The second car we tested was even more impressive, a high-performance variant known as the GT Mark 1. With its naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 620 horsepower, this R8 is truly a beast of a machine. The car's all-wheel-drive system and 7-speed automatic gearbox made it a formidable opponent on the track, and its incredible acceleration made it feel like it could go from 0-60mph in no time.
But how did these two cars compare to each other? In one test, we found that the GT Mark 1 was slightly quicker than the older model R8 Spider. Despite its rear-wheel drive layout, the GT Mark 1 managed to pull ahead of the Spider on several occasions, taking advantage of its extra power and sport-tuned suspension. On the other hand, in a second test, we found that the Spider's Quattro all-wheel-drive system gave it an edge over the GT Mark 1, allowing it to complete the standing quarter mile in just under 11 seconds.
One thing that became clear during our testing was how much of a difference weight can make on a car. The R8 Spider is significantly heavier than the GT Mark 1, and this weight difference can be felt on the track. In one test, we found that the GT Mark 1 completed the standing quarter mile in just under 11 seconds, while the Spider took around 12 seconds to complete the same distance.
Despite its heavier weight, however, the R8 Spider still managed to put up a respectable fight on the track. Its unique sound profile and comfortable ride made it an absolute blast to drive, and its Quattro all-wheel-drive system gave it an edge over the GT Mark 1 in certain situations. However, when it came down to raw power and acceleration, the GT Mark 1 was clearly the better car.
Speaking of acceleration, we decided to test the R8 Spider's manual mode capabilities on a rolling track day. With its sport-tuned suspension and powerful V10 engine, this R8 is capable of launching from 0-60mph in just under 3 seconds. However, when it came time to shift gears, we found that the car could be a bit finicky at times.
In one test, we found that the car would bog down on launch, struggling to get traction with its rear wheels. This was particularly true when trying to launch from a standing start, as the car seemed to struggle to find the right balance of power and traction. However, once it got going, the R8 Spider proved to be a joy to drive, its powerful engine and responsive handling making it a blast to push around the track.
The Audi R8 GT Mark 1 is undoubtedly one of the most impressive cars we've ever had the pleasure of testing. With its naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 620 horsepower, this car is truly a beast of a machine. Its all-wheel-drive system and sport-tuned suspension make it a formidable opponent on the track, and its incredible acceleration makes it feel like it could go from 0-60mph in no time.
But how does this car compare to its rear-wheel drive counterpart? In one test, we found that the GT Mark 1 was slightly quicker than the R8 Spider. Despite its heavier weight, the GT Mark 1 managed to pull ahead of the Spider on several occasions, taking advantage of its extra power and sport-tuned suspension. On the other hand, in a second test, we found that the Spider's Quattro all-wheel-drive system gave it an edge over the GT Mark 1, allowing it to complete the standing quarter mile in just under 11 seconds.
The Audi R8 Spider is a unique car that offers both the best of both worlds. With its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and powerful V10 engine, this car is capable of delivering exceptional performance and handling. However, when it comes down to raw power and acceleration, the GT Mark 1 is clearly the better car.
Breake testing, also known as stoplight drag racing, is a fun and exciting way to compare the performance of two cars side by side. In our test, we found that the R8 Spider's Quattro all-wheel-drive system gave it an edge over the GT Mark 1, allowing it to complete the standing quarter mile in just under 11 seconds. However, when we repeated the test with a manual transmission, the GT Mark 1 proved to be a strong contender.
Using both feet while pressing the pedal down is a tricky maneuver that requires great skill and timing. In our test, we found that the GT Mark 1's manual transmission made it a formidable opponent in the breake testing arena, allowing it to complete the standing quarter mile in just under 11 seconds. On the other hand, the R8 Spider's Quattro all-wheel-drive system gave it an edge over the GT Mark 1, but only by a fraction of a second.
Overall, our test drive experience with the Audi R8 Spider was an absolute blast. This car offers both exceptional performance and handling, making it a joy to drive on the track or the road. However, when it comes down to raw power and acceleration, the GT Mark 1 is clearly the better car.