Audi R8 vs Porsche 718
The short answer
Based on available data, the Audi R8 comes out ahead of the Porsche 718 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
R8
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, emotional appeal, and V10 engine character, with the vehicle widely described as a childhood dream car. The R8 is praised for its engaging, analog feel, particularly in earlier generations, and its relatively accessible supercar ownership experience. However, owner discussions reveal significant and recurrent concerns regarding specific reliability issues, most notably with the magnetic ride suspension and the air conditioning compressor.
Best version to buy
For the first generation (2008-2015), a later model year (2014-2015) V10 with a manual transmission is frequently cited as the most desirable and reliable combination. The manual is strongly preferred over the earlier R-tronic and S-tronic automated manuals for longevity and driving engagement.
Known issues
- Magnetic Ride Suspension Failure: Struts and shocks are prone to leaking, leading to complete system failure. Replacement with OEM parts is very costly, leading many owners to plan for aftermarket coilover upgrades.
- Air Conditioning Compressor Failure: Affects both V8 and V10 engines in the first generation. The compressor's location between the engine and firewall makes replacement a major, engine-out service, resulting in extremely high repair costs…
- Automated Manual Transmission Problems (R-tronic/S-tronic): Issues with early automated manuals in the first generation are noted as problematic and expensive to repair. Jerky shifting behavior is also commonly reported.
718
Overall
Sentiment is highly positive regarding the 718's core driving dynamics, with owners consistently praising its exceptional handling, steering precision, and chassis balance. The platform is widely regarded as a pure, mid-engine sports car that offers an engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience on both public roads and track environments. However, a significant and recurrent point of contention centers on engine character, creating a generational divide.
Best version to buy
The 718 GTS 4.0 is frequently cited as the best all-around version for spirited street driving. Owners highlight its potent naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine, which provides a strong mid-range and an engaging character, combined with the refined 718 chassis.
Known issues
- Throttle response lag / turbo lag (turbo 4-cylinder models): Noticeable delay in power delivery, especially at lower RPMs, described as a lack of immediate response. Frequency: recurrent.
- Engine sound / character (turbo 4-cylinder models): Exhaust note considered uninspiring and inferior to the flat-six engine's sound, a major point of criticism. Frequency: very frequent.
- Long gearing (GT4/Spyder models): Gear ratios described as excessively long, making it difficult to rev out the engine fully on public roads. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Audi R8 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Porsche 718, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Porsche 718 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Other comparisons
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi R8 or the Porsche 718?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi R8 and the Porsche 718. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi R8 or the Porsche 718?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi R8 is classed as a Coupe, the Porsche 718 as a Cabriolet, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi R8 or the Porsche 718?
The EPA rates the 2023 Audi R8 at 15–17 mpg combined and the 2025 Porsche 718 at 16–24 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi R8 or the Porsche 718?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi R8 than the Porsche 718. See the known issues comparison above.