How Does the C8 Corvette Stack Up Against the Audi R8?

Is the C8 Corvette a better bargain sports car/supercar than the mighty Audi R8? We think so.

For years, we’ve harbored a somewhat secret respect for the Audi R8. Like the Corvette, it proved that world-class sports cars don’t have to be expensive or unreliable to be great.

One of the R8’s biggest advantages has been its mid-engine configuration. Zora Arkus-Duntov knew half a century ago that mounting the engine in the middle of the car was the way to go for ultimate performance. We like to think he’s smiling down at the C8 right now.

Now that the C8 Corvette is finally here, we feel like it’s finally usurped the “bargain supercar” throne from the Audi R8. Recently, one of our members with a C8 posted a thread comparing the two.

C8 Gator is lucky enough to own both a 2020 Corvette and a handsome dark grey Audi R8. Recently, he and his kids took both cars out on some twisty backroads. After driving both, he shared his impressions.

He described the steering feel of the R8 as “more direct and confidence inspiring” than the Corvette. He went on to say that the R8 “feels more like a sports car — it’s slower but the overall experience is more ‘raw’ which I enjoy.”

He also said that he thought the R8 sounded better, but that probably has more to do with the R8’s aftermarket exhaust than any real deficiency on the part of the Corvette.

In closing, though, the C8 Gator seems to like the Corvette better. He acknowledges that it’s faster, for one. In his words, “[The] C8 is a great car with great technology that you could drive every day and enjoy. I think it’s the complete package.”

Other Members Weigh In

Of course, a few other members chimed in with their opinions. TARANTULA stated that the “C8 looks better in my opinion.”

KombatKing really likes the looks of the Audi R8, but he acknowledges the Corvette’s superiority. He says, “The C8 is an astonishing value and I feel the widebody C8 (Z06/GS) will take care of the majority of the design concerns.”

The round styling of the R8 — and the C8 Corvette’s more squared-off appearance — were the cause of much controversy. Some prefer the R8, while some prefer the Corvette. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder — same as it ever was.

All in all, though, we naturally prefer the Corvette. However, we wouldn’t turn down some seat time in an R8 if someone tossed us the keys!

Photos: Corvette Forum members

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