Is the Audi R8 a good investment?

The thesis

The first-generation R8 with the 4.2L V8 and gated six-speed manual is the overlooked entry into supercar ownership with analog appeal. The V10 stole the limelight, leaving the V8 manual deeply undervalued: UK examples start at £30k, with solid cars at £40–50k. The gated shifter—a Ferrari-esque touch—adds theater and tactility. Only 1% of buyers chose the manual in the final three years of production, making it genuinely rare. The high-revving V8, mid-engine balance, and Quattro stability deliver a more engaging experience than modern turbocharged alternatives. As collector focus shifts to last-generation naturally aspirated manuals, the V8 R8 is the sleeper: it hasn't run, and at half the budget of alternatives it's exceptional value.