Audi’s first supercar was very much a case of “right first time”, creating shockwaves across the car industry when it was revealed at the 2006 Paris Motor Show.
It went on sale the following year, bearing a strong visual resemblance to the 2003 Audi Le Mans Concept Car, and acquired an instant waiting list.
This example is one of the first sold in the UK, finished in Light Silver Metallic with Anthracite side blades, which was one of the launch colourways. It also has an Audi Exclusive two-tone black and cream interior, along with a comprehensive service history.
It’s a great opportunity to acquire an R8 in its purest form – and if that’s not the very definition of a modern classic or a potential investment opportunity, we don’t know what is…Entity-Studio-63.JPG9 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Original book pack
All Audi manuals
MOT until February 2024
Genuine low mileage of sub-59k backed up by old MOT records and servicing documents
UK V5C
Fully stamped service book, most main agent with a couple of specialist inspections
One of the most appealing things about the R8 is its interior colour scheme, which was an expensive Audi Exclusive option back in 2007. The seats are black with silver inserts, with alloy-effect inserts in the door trims, heater controls and gear lever.
In addition to the Audi Exclusive trim, the R8 also benefits from the extended Leather Pack, covering the dash and door cards, Alcantara headlining and Audi’s RNSE+ sat-nav and infotainment system, all in great working order. Entity-Studio-36.JPG9.66 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Ice Silver Metallic with Anthracite side blades
Newly refurbished 20-inch alloys
Brand new Pirelli P-Zero tyres
Superb bodywork with no notable flaws or damage
The R8 looks incredible in its launch colour scheme of Light Silver Metallic with Anthracite side blades – a look that was extremely futuristic when the model was new and is now one of the all-time classic R8 colourways.
It’s in marvellous order. The vendor believes the paint to be all original and says it is free from blemishes, other than the odd barely noticeable mark or stone chip that you’d expect to find on a 16-year old car.
The 20-inch alloy wheels are freshly refurbished and have just been fitted with a brand-new set of Pirelli P-Zero tyres, adding further to the car’s external appeal. Entity-Studio-70.JPG7.31 MB
THE MECHANICS
4.2-litre FSI V8
Six-speed manual
420bhp
Recent oil and filter service, including gearbox oil
Power comes courtesy of Audi’s punchy 4.2-litre FSI V8, a compact but extremely torquey unit that has been used in many of its S and RS performance models.
The engine has covered less than 59,000 miles and has just had a complete service including all fluids, including the all-important gearbox oil. The vendor reports that it’s in great mechanical order, with blistering performance, sensational handling and a rewarding gearshift.
One of the beauties of the R8 V8 – and it’s a huge plus – is that it doesn’t require a huge amount of specialist attention. Regular servicing is enough to generally keep it in fine fettle and it’s far less temperamental than most supercars.
SUMMARY
This is a lovely example of the ‘baby’ R8 – the V8 model, in full launch specification. A low-mileage car that has been impeccably well looked-after throughout its life, it’s presented in fabulous overall condition and benefits from a comprehensive history.
Already hugely popular as a supercar, the R8 is now more affordable than ever, while the earliest examples (like this one) are sitting on the cusp of being bona-fide classics. As interest in the model increases, the very first examples are inevitably set to become very collectable.
Get in there now with a lovely, original example such as this one and you’re likely to be sitting on a sensible long-term investment as well as a car that’s thoroughly enjoyable, blisteringly fast and surprisingly inexpensive to own and maintain.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
