Audi R8 Private Drive - Dallas
Nov 20, 2011 | 02:40 PM
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From: Dallas
Audi R8 Private Drive - Dallas 
Audi R8 Private Drive
Dallas, Texas
I was lucky enough to receive an invite by Audi for their R8 Private Drive event in Dallas. I'm a long-time Porsche lover (and still am), but any opportunity to take a great car on the road is appreciated. We were given a brief 20 minute prep presentation and then went out for a group drive for two 20-minute sessions around Dallas (highways, city streets).
Since my GTS is a 6spd, I chose a 6-spd manual when I completed my reservation. I expected to be driving V8 coupes, but when we went out to get in our cars, I was thrilled to see the line of V10 Coupes and Convertibles. I did see one V8 Spyder, but that was it. Apparently they knew my favorite color, because we were lucky enough to be assigned the Sepang Blue with Silver Side Blades. What a gorgeous car!!!
Driving Impressions:
* WOW.
* Great Sound...absolutely astonishing. Who needs a stereo in this car? What else would you possibly want to listen to? Other than Traffic Reports...
* Great Interior (it is an Audi)...but much less legroom than the 997. My friend is 6'5" and he struggled to fit in it, which is a shame, because he would (and could) buy one on the spot if only there was another 2-3 inches.
* The drive is so much smoother than a 997. Even with the suspension set to firm, it was better than a 997 is normal mode.
* Triple digits happen very quickly, and without really noticing. I could not own this car as I'd be put behind bars.
* This could easily be a daily driver...it rides that well.
* Smaller Frunk than 997.
* Driving these cars is more of an 'event' than a 997.
* While a 997 TT is probably 'faster' than the R8, the R8 feels much more planted and stable.
After all is said and done, I'd love to have one of these in my garage, but need more income as I wouldn't feel right driving it daily.
But what a car...I'm more impressed than I expected to be. You R8 people should count yourself lucky...because I consider myself lucky for the 20-minute drive I received. Thank You Audi USA. I might just walk into your dealership when the time comes.
