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Porsche 997: Should I Buy a 911 or Audi R8?

If you're thinking about a Porsche 997 Carrera S, chances are you may have found yourself considering an Audi R8 V10. The two cars offer brilliant handling, have exceptional curb-appeal, and are at the pinnacle of automotive engineering today. Both brands offer great cache, and can be readily driven on the track. The decision may not be all that difficult, but the two cars offer very different experiences.

By Paul Van Sickle - April 27, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 997/911, and Audi R8 (2005-2012).

Many Porsche 997 owners consider purchasing an Audi R8 V10. Whether its for the Audi's greater tendency towards luxury appointment or the R8's unmistakable design, it's unclear. The differences vary, but deciding which one to buy seems quite clear as they are fundamentally different cars.

  • Figure 1. An Audi R8 V10.
  • Figure 2. A 997 Carrera S.

Component Breakdown

Pricing

Mileage is the biggest factor affecting used Porsches. With the long run of the 997, used models vary widely, starting in the mid $30,000 for early first generation models. Limiting the search to more fairly comparable models like the Carerra S and the GTS, the average price becomes more competitive to the Audi R8 at around $75,000.

Early, low-mileage R8 V10 models can be found starting around $100,000, but the average R8 V10 is going to be closer to $120,000. Coupes average a few thousand dollars cheaper on the used market than convertibles.

Performance

When it comes to performance numbers, there is much less of a gap between the two and it's much in the R8's favor. The Carerra S boasts 400 horsepower and 325 lb-feet of torque, which is no slouch. But the R8's massive 5.2L V10 dominates with 518 horsepower and 391 lb-feet of torque. Sure, the R8 is heavier, but not by much; the R8's base curb weight is listed at 3,461 lbs. The Carrera S, on the other hand, is only a few hundred lbs lighter at 3,142.

This does not stop those who have driven both cars from claiming the R8 “feels” heavier. It's true that the 997 is designed and marketed as a true enthusiast's car. Its suspension feels harder, and the smaller displacement engine has to work harder to make less power. But its handling is razor sharp, and it takes certain finesse to pilot it on the track. This is an aspect Porsche owners truly enjoy.

Daily Use

From its futuristic spaceship appearance to its extraordinary starting price of $153,000, the R8 is marketed and sold as exotic. However, most drivers who have had the opportunity to compare the two say the R8 is much easier to live with day to day. Its got a lighter manual transmission and more comfortable interior, even if it is less hard-edged on the track. Some note the carbon-ceramic brake upgrade package is essentially required, and the increased maintenance costs associated with it. Others say the R8 is extremely civilized in day-to-day driving. The Audi claims a very light flywheel and a lighter touch manual shifter, meaning it's no chore to row your own.

Maintenance

Some have reported leaking shocks on those R8s equipped with Magnetic Ride Control. This is common enough at around 15,000 miles; so if it happens out of warranty, it can be quite expensive to fix.

Porsche owners have few maintenance complaints regarding 997. Second generation models seem to be even more trouble-free than the first.

911 Turbo Versus R8

It is very much worth comparing the Audi R8's other variation, the 4.2 V8 and one of Porsche's other popular 997 trims, the Turbo S. Here the numbers become a nearly fair fight. With used prices of the Turbo S coming in at just over $100,000 and the engine's output rated at 523 horsepower, it starts to look like a real contender to the R8 V10. You may lose out on the Audi's futuristic design and luxury-oriented interior, but you also will have a very powerful track-ready racer that won't stand out at every California stop-light. If the used prices of the R8 V10 are too much but you do want some extra comfort in your daily rat race, consider the V10's little brother the 4.2 V8. Average used prices are at just over $90,000. Power is rated at 428 horsepower and 317 lb-feet of torque. It will still get to 60 in a very respectable 4.8 seconds.

  • Figure 3. A R8 V8 model. Note the lack of V10 badge on the fender.
  • Figure 4. A 997 Turbo S.

Much depends on buyers' desired trim and budget. The popular consensus seems to favor the Porsche for performance and driving feel. However, those who favor the comfort features and curb appeal will appreciate the R8 for both. Those who are looking to do some track time on the weekends seem to prefer the 911's sharp handling, while those looking for a mild exotic that is a livable commuter will no-doubt opt for the R8. Both are excellent driver's cars and are head-turners, but its all about one's priorities.

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