I need guidance before to purchasing my first R8.

[DronePilot]

I am nearing the purchase of a 2009 first-generation R8 V8 manual, which is wrapped in purple but originally white. I believe I am obtaining a favorable price; however, my primary issue is the mileage—approximately 150,000 km, or nearly 95,000 miles. It is purportedly well-maintained, having just received a new clutch, and has only been driven during the summer months, to my knowledge, with an oil service conducted at the beginning of each season.

I am a complete novice in this domain; what do the professionals advise? Is this a danger or am I secure?

If you were to estimate a reasonable price for a vehicle of this type and mileage, what would that price be? It is located in Europe, so subject to European or German pricing; I am uncertain if prices in the United States and Europe are equivalent.

I want to get a favorable agreement that will either retain its worth or maybe increase. What are your thoughts?

Is there anything more I should know? Do you have any advice for a novice? I am 24 years old and have no prior experience with automobiles of this kind, so any advice or points of caution would be welcomed.

Thank you, everyone! I apologize if some of my inquiries seem trivial; as previously said, I am a novice.

[SustainabilityPro]

I cannot speak on cost; but, a high-mileage R8 may provide difficulties in future resale. Acquiring it as an investment may not be the most prudent decision. If the goal is to get an enjoyable, cost-effective vehicle for weekend use, there is no better option available.

What is the proposed price?

It seems to be lower than the factory height. Does it has lowering springs or coilovers? Glad to assist with the installation of new magnetic ride shocks, should you choose to upgrade your vehicle.

[DronePilot]

The vehicle is "local" and operated by an individual with whom I have several mutual acquaintances, hence I have seen the automobile everyday in the area prior to its wrapping.

The asking price is €47,000, which is rather economical.

The vehicle is equipped with H&R springs but retains its magnetic ride suspension.

What is your opinion on this? I will likely drive 5000-8000 kilometers annually.

[ReefKeeper]

150,000 km is substantial, thus the first inquiry should be on the annual distance you want to cover.
If equipped with magnetic ride shocks, they should be inspected for oil leakage. The AC compressor is a potential vulnerability, thus ensure that the AC is operational. It is my observation that costs in the USA are rather elevated compared to those in Europe. Given the considerable mileage, a value between 60,000 and 70,000 euros is fair.

[DronePilot]

Thank you. He indicates that the magnetic ride and air conditioning are functioning well. I want to drive 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers annually.
I am acquiring the automobile for 47,000 EUR, which I consider a bargain; thus, I may be able to offset a significant portion of the operating expenses if I sell it in the future.
What is your opinion on that price?

[WebWizard]

The pricing seems to be rather favorable, particularly given that it is a manual transmission. Inquire about the timeline for the replacement of the mag rides. Typically, they endure around 60,000 kilometers.
What is the status of concealed defects?
Is there a guarantee provided?

[MartialArtist]

I spent over $70,000 USD in repair expenses for my 2014 V8 over the course of 100,000 kilometers driven.

Are you financially capable of managing many unforeseen repairs costing $2,000 each in the coming years?

What is the cost for a $10,000 engine-out compressor replacement?

The cost of a replacement tail light is $2,200.

An O2 sensor costs around $2,500.

The malfunctioning heating sensor cost nearly $2,000.

At 24 years of age, I could afford the acquisition cost but not the repairs and upkeep expenses.

The acquisition cost is not the critical aspect of purchasing these vehicles. It pertains to the ownership expenses associated with them.

In my view, 100,000 miles is not too high; but, if you are financially strained to purchase the vehicle, it may not be the wisest decision.

Best of luck anyway.

[DronePilot]

It seems costly; nevertheless, I can manage a $2,000 repair sometimes, though I likely will not like the expense.😆

[SurfingPro]

A high-mileage and extensively customized R8 is perhaps not the most advisable starting point, to be honest. As previously said, wraps can conceal problems, and in the case of BC coilovers, I can assure you that the spring rates are incorrect. If it has been well maintained and is reasonably priced, it may be satisfactory; nonetheless, you should allocate funds for potential issues (oil pump drive seals, rear arms, air conditioning, walnut blasting, etc.). Ricky's buyer's guide serves as an excellent starting point, and it is essential to thoroughly examine the service records to ascertain the maintenance performed.

[SurfingPro]

 

[DronePilot]

The wrap is OK; I am familiar with the individual and have seen the vehicle without it several times. It is equipped with Mag Ride suspension, not BC coilovers, and has been lowered using H&R springs. What is your opinion on this?

[SurfingPro]

When were those magazines last updated or refurbished? Based on my observations, the installation of lowering springs did not enhance their longevity, suggesting that they may be nearing the end of their functional life, which is a consideration to ponder.

EZ raises a valid concern on the tendency of individuals to neglect both preventive and essential maintenance as these vehicles age and become more affordable; thus, it is imperative to examine the maintenance records thoroughly.

I am unaware of the pricing in your area; but, in the UK, one can get a gated V8 with 60,000 miles with wingback seats (although with a repaired cat) for £28,000, making other locations seem less favorable from a UK standpoint.

[AutoFanatic]

For any high-mileage vehicle, anticipate a greater frequency of unforeseen repairs.

While it may seem superficial, I am unequivocally deterred by the packaging. I categorize this under what I refer to as "the Subaru rule," which often presumes that acquiring a Subaru is not an isolated imprudent choice. I avoid proximity to Subaru drivers, since they often exhibit similarly bad decision-making. The wrap conveys a message of dubious judgment to me. I may be incorrect or correct; nonetheless, when superior alternatives are available, why seek clarification?

High mileage R8s are now experiencing a phase of deterioration within the exotic lifetime. This period marks the transition of exotics to "old sports car" status, experiencing significant depreciation and appealing to purchasers who extend their budgets but often lack the means for adequate maintenance. Ultimately, few individuals are inclined to invest tens of thousands in upkeep on a 100,000-mile vehicle that originally cost them $50,000. Typically, it is only after these vehicles rise in value (if such an event occurs) that they are once again cherished, restored to their original condition, and meticulously maintained. The 355 exemplified this phenomenon, particularly with several modified instances when prices fell to the $50,000 and $60,000 range. Few individuals were both interested and capable of doing repairs costing $10,000 and $20,000. Currently, several individuals are once again earning well into six figures, and they are being adequately maintained.

Purchase a quality specimen; high-mileage V8s are quite acceptable (and deserving of appreciation), but the optimal owner is either a dedicated DIY enthusiast or is indifferent to repair expenses.

[DronePilot]

It is worth considering that the individual from whom I am purchasing the vehicle has owned three R8s and is quite reputable within the local automotive community, with several mutual acquaintances. I am reasonably confident that he has maintained the car well; however, I lack information regarding the previous owner. This individual utilized the car as a daily driver, and I have observed him operating it around town regularly. He appears to handle the vehicle with care and respect, based on my observations.
I am purchasing this automobile for far less than the market average (47,000 EUR), whereas most comparable vehicles range from 55,000 to 70,000 EUR, although with somewhat lower mileage. Do you believe I am risking a costly lesson with this particular vehicle? Should I place my faith in the individual and proceed?