2023 R8 GT that is limited to just 333 examples worldwide and costs a little more than $250K. It has a V10 that fires 602 horsepower to the rear wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It is a desirable model that collectors will seek out for years to come. But collectability aside, is it a better sports car than say a 2009 V8 R8 with a manual transmission? What if you consider that the older R8 can be had for roughly a quarter of the price of the new R8 GT? Does the R8 GT justify its high price compared to even a brand new R8 V10 Performance RWD that is about 100 grand cheaper?
That is what the folks at Throttle House are attempting to determine in their latest video. In one corner they have a 2009 R8 V8 that can be had for $63,995. In the other corner is the 2023 R8 GT wearing a $253,290 MSRP. Neither car is what you would call cheap. But for the price of the R8 GT you could buy the older R8 plus a new S8 performance sedan, AND a new SQ5 for running to the shops. The R8 GT would have to be pretty darn special to justify the price. Well, it is special, but is it special enough?
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Both the A5 and the A7 are stunning examples of the hatchback platform. But is one inherently better?
As generations of commuters, college students, and enthusiasts know, the hatchback is one of the most versatile vehicle configurations available. But while it might have its roots in practicality and cargo space optimization, for many of us, it’s also inherently pretty platform. That said, it’s hard to imagine executions of the concept which aim higher—and deliver more aesthetically—than Audi’s A5 and the A7. Both are design masterpieces, and in this new video, Thomas Majchrzak from Autogefühl provides a comprehensive comparison of the models.
And when I say comprehensive? I’m not kidding. At nearly 40 minutes long, there’s basically nothing Majchrzak doesn’t go over with a fine-tooth comb here. So If you’re considering either one of these vehicles, I’d say this breakdown of character traits and features is a fantastic place to start. It also led to some eye-opening realizations for me, not the least of which is the fact that in its native Germany, the A7 — which starts at a whopping $70K on this side of the Pond—doesn’t even come with a standard backup camera. Seriously Audi? How does that happen?
Now obviously, there’s a big price difference between these two machines. As Majchrzak explains toward the end of the comparison the difference is about $25k — which is not an insignificant amount of coin. Personally though, I appreciate that while there might be a wide delta between the MSRP for these vehicles, from a looks perspective, these cars are close enough to be negligible. Both are stunning examples of a modern sedan, and both make me wish we saw more traditional cars, and less SUVs and crossovers on the road. Because as I always like to say? If you want car-like handling, it really helps to start with a car.
If I were given the choice, and cost wasn’t a factor, I’d likely go with the A5, mostly because I like the proportions a hair better, and since I live in a dense urban environment, I’d appreciate the smaller footprint too. But what do you think? Watch the whole video below, or just use the handy chapter reference in the comments to skip around to the parts you’re particularly interested in. Regardless of which Audi is tops in your book, give me a shout and let me know what you think!
