Hey guys, looking for some help on purchasing a R8 manual only, since the new R8 is only coming with an automatic transmission.

I eventually plan to make it faster (possibly UGR) and I plan to keep this car for a long time. Weekend car

Which year should I look into? Do the early 2010s have issues? What should I look for when buying a used R8?
Should I try to order a new one with manual or did they stop taking orders?

What are the must have options?

Appreciate the feedback! especially from current or previous owners.

 

I have a 2010 V10 6MT. The carbon sigma interior and full leather are really nice options that make the interior feel that much more special. (Alcantera is nice too)
The 2010- early 2012s are easy to flash, 2012-15 are more involved. There are no engine differences year to year. The magnetic shocks are the only issues I've seen that pop up frequently. Make sure to check all four corners for leaks, repairs run ~$2000 per corner.
I personally like the pre facelift rear end better, but the leather interior options on the '14 are nice.

 

I have the 2015 V8 as a daily driver. Works fine and never an issue.

My advice would be to get every option. (oral surgeons make big bucks and deserve the best! ;-)
As for the options....They are very reasonable in price compared to porsche options, for example.

The magnetic shocks do fail. And early. And cost a small fortune. Just replace them with GT shocks from the Audi catalog.

 

Buy a 2011 or 2012 that is still under warranty (starts when the car first sold to the first owner, not the production date like Porsche), add a 4-6 year extended platinum warranty and audicare for 3-4k, and drive it daily without having to worry. They will even cover the shocks in most cases

When I first own the car for 2 weeks, the car developed some weird noises in the AC vents. Turned into a 2 week repair that would cost 11k without warranty. Audi took care of everything including giving me a 2015 A4 to drive around

Audi's great warranty plans, and availability of dealers everywhere is why I went with it over the used gallardo. My wallet isnt fat enough for that kind of risk

 

That would be awesome!! I have a friend that works on them alot in the dealership. If you have any questions I can always refer you to him since he has worked with them and is always with audi techs.

Hope all goes well with your search and it be a pleasure to have our wheels on your car while its in the UGR Process which is going to be awesome!!!