Chris Jacobs Garage

I’ve seen the R8 on the street about four times now, and I always chase it down so I can stare at it. Its one of the best looking cars I’ve ever seen. From every angle its beautiful, subtle and menacing. Its the automotive embodiment of “walk softly and carry a big stick”.

The first time I saw it was on the 101 north of the 405 about 6 months ago. It was a black one with dealer plates cruising in the right lane. I crept up on it and gave the driver a wild thumbs up and tried not to drool on my window. He gave me a cool glance, and because it was sunday morning, decided to give me a taste of the cars power. He downshifted, and in less than three seconds he had left me in the distant dust. I was doing about 75 mph and felt that my Magnum had suddenly turned into the family truckster.

The second time I saw the R8 in person it was parked, so I had a chance to drool on the actual car instead of myself. I walked around it three times trying to find something I didn’t like. Nothing. The entire car is perfect. Its like seeing a beautiful woman that you know is way out of your league. She’s right there in front of you, but you will never have her. Even if you got the chance you probably couldn’t handle it. It takes a certain level of game to harness such a powerful beauty. Game that few of us has. Allow me to explain.

The MSRP is $109,000. For a supercar, which the R8 definitely is, that’s a ridiculous bargain. Only the Ford GT comes close in the dollar value category. But, must of us gearheads can’t really afford that. Let alone the down payment or insurance.

Why would someone fork that kind of dough over? Especially in this economy? because as Ferris says “if you have the means, I highly suggest picking one up.”

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty:

Audi takes complete advantage of its full subsidiary ownership of Lamborghini S.P.A. by building the R8 with the same chassis and transmission as the Gallardo. Its powered by a 4.2 L V8 which makes 414 hp. With a curb weight of only 3439 lb., you can understand the insane acceleration.

The best, however, is yet to come. In 2009 Audi plans to make a roadster edition of the 2-seat coupe, a la the Carrera GT.

And for those of you who just can’t get enough horsepower and low fuel economy, A V10 version is also planned for 2008. The 5.2 L twin turbo makes 580 Hp and will turn your baldspot white.

So call your banker and get some depends. The Audi R8 is bang for buck one of the best supercars available.

-CJ