Pale Rider

Hi All:

Looking for some advice/input on a possible R8 purchase. I know about the projected next-gen R8, and have seen all the renderings, and read the rumors, and while 2015 is not that far away, on my personal timeline, it is farther away than I would like. So I am prepared to acquire/lease now, even if within 18 months, I start to experience new model envy. I am interested only in a Spyder, either V8 or V10, and would appreciate guidance/insight on these issues:

1. Any owners of the 2013 or 2014 who genuinely feel emasculated and reduced to infancy by the outdated instruments & electronics? The press has made much of the outdated electronics, though compared to my former A6 and A4 Cab, they seem fine. I will add an iPod interface, and will want to use my phone in the cockpit, but these items seem perfectly functional. I have read much criticism of the “Jetta-like” panel between the instrument pods, but I never complained about what I think is the similar panel in my A6.

2. Any long-legged drivers feel cramped in the driver’s seat? I am trying to arrange a drive in a current model, though right now, running into some logistics, scheduling and access issues. I have heard references to "wide, but short” when referring to the driver’s space. I am 6’2”, and most of my height is in my legs [35/36 inseam].

3. Any insight on the various interior packages? Is there some marked difference in comfort or driveability with these packages?

4. Lastly, any other adds to the V8 or V10 that truly made a difference in your enjoyment of the car? Fastening floor mats? ;-) Just kidding; I know those are included with the V10, which makes them the most expensive floor mats in history, I think.

Cheers!

Pale Rider

Questions and anxiety resolved. Although I looked at ordering a custom color, the wait time was daunting. Located a Daytona Gray V10 with almost all the options I wanted,and she will be en route here next week.