Hey roadrunner! Thx for the welcome man
Well, I testdrove the R8V V8 a few months ago (both in manual and R-tronic versions) and wasn't into any of the 2 cars at all. Don't get me wrong I absolutely LOVE the exterior and interior design of the R8, it is one of the hottest cars on the planet. But the power of the V8 simply didn't do it for me. I need to say that I own a Porsche Ruf Rt12 cab with 700HP/900Nm torque so that may have had some impact when it comes to performance figures
The V10 I drove was only available in R-Tronic version and I must say I kinda liked it. It goes through its gears far smoother than my LP640 Roadster but not as fast. I think you can compare the sport mode of the LP560 with the sport mode of the R8 V10 but the Corsa mode of the Lambo is quite a bit faster and much more brutal.
The one thing I have serious issues with is the location of the paddles. I'm really used to the paddles attached to the steering column. On the R8 they are attached to the steering wheel itself and that irritates the shit out of me, especially in short turns. I suppose using the +/- shifter would be the solution for that.
IMHO the V10 is the only engine worthy of this car. I understand the filosophy of the V8 engine (being an entry level GT to attract Merc clients etc) but it's just not powerful enough, especially in lower RPMS.
I also loved the magnetic ride in both normal and sport setting. I remember using the sportmode on my previous 997 turbo, it made the car bounce all over the place
It's a different system of course but just to make clear that in the R8 you can actually use the sport setting.
Sound was ok but it is something that will need "extra care"
Bypass-pipes would do wonders I presume.
All in all a very positive experience and I may be looking into buying one soon.