CAR WARS! The Age-old Debate — Emotion Vs. Speed? The Audi R8 Spyder Vs. The Porsche 911 Turbo

In the world of supercars, it's tough to argue against the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo and the Audi R8.

While the Porsche can be considered a bit conservative due to its carried-over design and immense amount of traction, the R8 is a bit more of an exotic due to its wedge-shaped design and V10 that's loosely shared with the Lamborghini Huracan. But, which one wins in a back-to-back duel?

I think it really comes down to two things:

1) If you're seeking pure, unadultered speed then the choice is obvious — you have to have the Porsche 911 Turbo. It's an utter, utter monster that will leave you speechless. There's just one catch. It's not the most exciting car in the world to drive as the turbos really muffle the sound and it has SO much traction that drama is pretty limited.

2) If you're OK with being a few tenths of a second slower but are seeking a more visceral experience, you have to go with the R8. While its V10 doesn't produce the most amazing soundtrack, it is still quite good. Frankly, this vehicle when driven hard will keep you guessing and on your toes. I like that. And while the second-gen car doesn't look as cool as the first-gen R8, it still is quite edgy especially when compared the 911.

That said, what say YOU, Spies? I know we have a couple users who have owned both, would be a treat to hear their thoughts...

On this episode of Head 2 Head presented by Tire Rack (http://www.tirerack.com), hosts Jonny Lieberman and Randy Pobst take a look at two entry-level convertible supercars, the Audi R8 V10 Spyder and the Porsche Turbo Cabriolet. These are the base versions. The brakes are steel, the engines are in a relatively relaxed state of tune, and the suspensions have been dialed down a notch or two. Still, with each convertible pumping out 540 hp and sporting seven-speed, dual-clutch transmissions that send power to all four wheels, these two aren’t exactly no frills. Pobst and Lieberman put the two through their paces, on a winding open road and a racetrack. Which superconvertible is best? Watch and find out!

MDarringer - 9/23/2017 9:38:02 AM

+4 Boost

This is an easy comparison. The 911 is simply better.

TomM - 9/24/2017 6:37:11 AM

+2 Boost

This is simply a question of whether you want a Johnny-come-lately - or if you want the real thing.

I agree with Matt - the Porsche is the clear choice.

knowitall1985 - 9/23/2017 10:43:48 AM

+1 Boost

Im am tired of looking at the 911 body. I was selling them in 1985, I'll take the Audi....

TheSteve - 9/23/2017 11:08:30 AM

+5 Boost

*I* very much prefer the 911 Turbo, in part because it's an understated supercar, with classic, timeless lines. I also value how extraordinarily well-behaved it is, and the fact that you can comfortably use it as a daily driver. Those are my 100% subjective preferences.

As for the R8, I used to ache for one for years. It was my aspirational car... and then Audi's new styling language kicked in. Although it's not ugly to my eyes, *I* just don't care for that look. Handling and performance wise, it's no slouch, and it's a very capable car.

MDarringer - 9/24/2017 7:46:03 AM

0 Boost

I noticed you didn't do a footnote that time. Is "*I*" your new affectation?

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 9/23/2017 12:11:01 PM

+4 Boost

You are either an R8 guy or not. It has never been a pretty car. Best look is from the front or rear. Total loss from the side. Not sure why they bothered with this car as sister brands have high performance sports cars to cover the segment.

MDarringer - 9/23/2017 12:45:51 PM

-5 Boost

For me, the worst look is from the rear where it looks fat assed and import-tuner-boy low class. I'd rather have a Z06 than either.

TauronB2G - 9/24/2017 12:36:51 PM

+4 Boost

This gen R8 doesn’t do it for me at all.
I’m Porsche all the way.

skytop - 9/24/2017 6:35:25 PM

0 Boost

The two guys in the video are so hard core that dedicated race cars satisfy them. They are two spoiled lovable brats.

Randy is a top notch track driver.

hangtime010 - 9/25/2017 2:37:18 PM

+2 Boost

If I could afford cars in that price range and only had these 2 to choose from...I would go for the Audi.
Way too many 911's around and way too many configurations (eg. Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4S, etc.). Both are more than capable (in the right hands) for any sort of driving you want (on the road or the track). But with the R8 you'll at least turn some heads and isn't that part of why there are cars like these?