Which is faster in a straight line: BMW i8 or Audi R8?

The Audi R8 is significantly faster, featuring a 5.2-litre V10 engine that produces up to 612 bhp. This allows for a 0-60 mph sprint in roughly 3.1 seconds. In comparison, the BMW i8 uses a hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 374 bhp, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

BMW i8 vs Audi R8: which is more expensive to buy?

The Audi R8 commands a higher entry price, starting at approximately £142,725. The BMW i8 is positioned as the more accessible option of the two, with a starting price of roughly £115,050. This price gap reflects the R8’s focus on high-displacement V10 performance versus the i8's specialised hybrid engineering.

Is the BMW i8 more practical than the Audi R8 for daily use?

The Audi R8 is generally considered more comfortable for daily use, offering a more spacious cabin and superior ergonomics compared to the snug i8. While the BMW i8 provides surprisingly decent cargo capacity for its class, the R8 offers more breathing room and refined long-haul comfort for driver and passenger alike.

Does the BMW i8 have better interior technology than the Audi R8?

The BMW i8 features a more advanced, futuristic infotainment interface designed to monitor hybrid efficiency and eco-savings, which feels more modern than the R8’s setup. While the Audi R8 provides essential driver aids and high-performance settings, its cabin tech is more focused on simplicity and is often described as feeling dated.

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BMW I8Exterior

Audi R8Exterior

VS

SHOWDOWN

BMW I8 vs Audi R8

Futuristic Hybrids vs. V10 Legends: The Ultimate Supercar Showdown!

The BMW i8 takes the crown in the face-off between futuristic hybrids and V10 legends, showcasing its innovative design and eco-friendliness while still delivering exhilarating performance. We tested the BMW i8 and Audi R8, evaluating their aesthetics, comfort, power, and technology. The i8 shines with its sleek, modern appeal and impressive tech, but the R8 captivates with its raw power and luxurious interior. Ultimately, the i8 edges ahead, proving that sustainability can indeed be stylish and thrilling!

BMW I8

From £29,999

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Audi R8

From £37,925

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Scores at a glance

	Styling	Comfort & Space	Performance	Tech & Infotainment	Overall

BMW I8	9	7	8	8	32
Audi R8	8	8	9	7	32

Is it right for you?

The winner on paper might not be the winner for your life.

See my personalised picks

Welcome, fellow auto aficionados! Today, we're diving deep into a showdown of physics-defying hybrids and growling V10 beasts, where the BMW i8 meets the iconic Audi R8. In the left corner, we have the space-age styling and efficiency of the i8, and in the right, the roaring heritage and power of the R8. Buckle up, because this is going to be one electrifying ride!

1

Styling

BMW I8 wins

BMW I8Exterior

Audi R8Exterior

BMW I8

9

Audi R8

8

The BMW i8 is a vision from the future, sleek and aerodynamic, turning heads faster than a kid on a sugar rush. Meanwhile, the Audi R8 showcases classic supercar curves that scream "I mean business!" Both are beauts, but the i8 gets the nod for being downright extraterrestrial.

In the style stakes, the i8 stands out like a UFO at a car meet while the R8 is the suave but slightly old-school gentleman.

2

Comfort & space

Audi R8 wins

BMW I8Interior

Audi R8Interior

BMW I8

7

Audi R8

8

The i8's interior screams modernity, wrapped in sustainable materials that look as good as they feel. However, it’s more focused on flair than practicality. The , being an Audi, offers that plush, roomy feel with ergonomic touches that make you feel at home even at 150 mph.

3

Performance

Audi R8 wins

BMW I8Action

Audi R8Action

BMW I8

8

Audi R8

9

The BMW i8 features a clever combo of a 231bhp petrol engine mated to a 143bhp electric motor, allowing for thrilling 0-60 runs while maintaining eco-cred. On the other hand, the delivers a ferocious V10 engine that produces 612 bhp—now that’s what I call a growl!

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4

Tech & infotainment

BMW I8 wins

BMW I8Infotainment

Audi R8Infotainment

BMW I8

8

Audi R8

7

The i8 is packed with tech that feels straight out of sci-fi, including a user-friendly interface that puts all the important info at your fingertips—perfect for tracking your eco-savings as you glide silently down the street. The R8's setup, while solid, feels a tad more dated, as if it’s saying, 'I prefer to keep it simple, my friend!'

BMW I8

Overall

32

Audi R8

Overall

32

BOBI'S VERDICT

The BMW i8 sits at a starting price of about £115,050, while the Audi R8 commands a princely sum starting at £142,725. Is it worth the extra moolah? That depends if you value more horsepower and that delicious V10 growl over hybrid efficiency. But hey, both are some serious eye candy!

So, who takes the crown? Well, if you're after futuristic innovations and hybrid pizzazz, the BMW i8 is your ride to the future. However, if raw power and driving pleasure are what tickle your engines, the Audi R8 is your best mate. In the end, it’s all about what makes your heart race—either way, you’re winning!

BMW I8

Overall

32

Audi R8

Overall

32

BI

See BMW I8 listings

From £29,999

AR

See Audi R8 listings

From £37,925

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Frequently Asked Questions

Audi R8

The i8 is a snug but posh spaceship for two—perfect for date night or a solo jaunt. The R8, however, provides a bit more breathing room and decent cargo space, so you can stash those grocery bags from your fancy organic market.

If you're looking at comfort levels, the R8 takes the cake, while the i8 is more about making a statement than providing long-haul comfort.

Audi R8

The i8 is agile and quick off the line, but the R8 boasts an unrivaled connection to the road with its symphonic engine notes and refined handling. The Audi feels like a well-tailored suit, perfectly skimming curves and obeying your every whim.

Both cars are equipped with ample driving modes—BMW's hybrid system balances between power and efficiency, while the R8 delights the senses with raw speed and precision at your fingertips.

In the performance department, the R8 edges out the i8 with sheer driving pleasure and that ear-pounding soundtrack—talk about automotive ecstasy!

The BMW sports neat features like adaptive sports driving modes and seamless connectivity, ensuring you don't miss a tweet on your eco-expedition. The R8 emphasizes performance but also offers driver aids—just don't expect to cuddle with Google Maps in this one!

Boot space? The i8 is surprisingly decent, but let’s be honest—neither car is exactly built for lugging around a week’s worth of groceries. The R8, though, offers just a little more room for your weekend bags of shenanigans!

The i8’s tech-forward approach wins it the scorecard here, showing the world how fun and forward-thinking can definitely coexist.