Audi discontinued the Audi R8 in 2023, while Nissan also bid farewell to the GT-R in 2025. Although both cars have been discontinued, they hold a special place in our hearts. Let the Nissan GT-R vs Audi R8 battle commence so that we can find out which affordable sportscar is the best.
Before we dive into the comparison, let’s learn a thing or two about Nissan and Audi.
Nissan
Nissan has long been celebrated for its innovative approach to performance vehicles. The brand’s lineage of iconic sports cars started with the Datsun 240Z, a pioneering model that redefined affordable performance.
Over time, Nissan evolved its sports car portfolio, unveiling models like the Skyline GT-R, dubbed “Godzilla” for its track-dominating power. With the modern GT-R’s cutting-edge engineering, Nissan continues to push the limits of speed, handling, and design.
Balancing performance with everyday usability, these cars embody technological advancements and a passionate driving experience. Nissan’s commitment to racing heritage ensures that its sports cars remain beloved among enthusiasts worldwide.
Audi
Audi, a German automotive giant, has built a reputation for making sportscars that merge technology with performance. The brand’s motorsport pedigree, including multiple victories in endurance racing, underscores its engineering prowess.
The iconic R8 supercar, featuring Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel drive, delivers heart-pounding acceleration and track-ready handling. Meanwhile, models like the TT RS bring that performance DNA to a broader audience.
With a blend of sleek styling, refined luxury, and advanced safety features, Audi ensures that driving enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling experiences without compromising everyday usability. It’s a lineage defined by innovation and driving passion.
Nissan GT-R vs. Audi R8: Editor’s POV
If we are talking about performance, the Nissan GT-R is faster but the Audi R8 is more practical. It’s called the poor man’s supercar for good reason. The GT-R may not be as comfortable and lacks flashy tech, but it’s also quite a fast car.
With similar performance figures, it is difficult to say which will win a drag race. The R8’s V10 is pure symphony, while the GT-R’s twin-turbo V6 is also music to our ears. Which one of these is the best? Read this Nissan GT-R vs. Audi R8 till the end to find out as we compare the performance, interior, safety, and driver assistance features of both these cars.
Performance
Let’s compare the GT-R and the R8 in terms of performance:
| Specs | Nissan GT-R | Audi R8 |
| Engine | V6 | V10 |
| Forced Induction | Twin-turbo | NA |
| Displacement | 3800cc | 5200cc |
| Transmission | 6-speed DCT | 7-speed DCT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| Power | 565 hp | 562 hp |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 550 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 3.0 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | 9.3 km/l | 9.7 km/l |
| Weight | 1746 kg | 1632 kg |
As we can see, despite having a smaller engine and more weight, the Nissan GT-R is faster than the Audi R8. The Audi manages a slightly better fuel economy than the GT-R.
Interior
Here, we will compare the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R from the inside:
| Specs | Nissan GT-R | Audi R8 |
| No. of seats | 4 | 4 |
| Seat Material | Leather and Alcantara | Fine Nappa leather |
| Paddle Shifters | Yes | Yes |
| Multimedia | 7-inch touchscreen | 8.3” + 8.6” touch screens |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Apple CarPlay | Yes |
| Wireless charging | Unavailable | Available |
| Ambient Lighting | Available | Available |
| Sunroof | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Sound System | Bose premium sound system | Bang & Olufsen sound system |
| Seat Functions | Manually adjustable seats | Fully electric memory seats |
| Boot Capacity | 250 liters | 100 liters |
As we can see, the Audi R8 feels more premium inside, with more options than the GT-R. On the other hand, the GT-R has only the necessary features required by a track monster. Despite being less practical, the Nissan GT-R has a bigger boot than the Audi R8.
Our Nissan GT-R vs. Audi R8 battle just got interesting!
Safety and Driver Assistance
Let’s have a look at the safety and driver assistance features of the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R:
| Specs | Nissan GT-R | Audi R8 |
| Airbags | 6 airbags | 4 airbags |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) | Standard | Standard |
| Automated Emergency Braking (AEB) | Available | Standard |
| Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
| ISOFIX | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Electronic Power Steering (EPS) | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Unavailable | Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) | Available | Available |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Start Assist (HSA) | Available | Available |
| Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control (TRC) | Standard | Standard |
| Heads-Up Display (HUD) | Available | Available |
| Lane Departure Assist | Unavailable | Available |
| Lane Change Assist | Unavailable | Available |
| 360 Cameras | Unavailable | Available |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Standard |
The Audi R8 wins regarding driver assistance features, but it has 2 less airbags than the Nissan GT-R. The GT-R cuts out most driver assistance features as it was meant to be a raw driving experience.
Conclusion
The Nissan GT-R and the Audi R8 are the pinnacle of practical sportscar performance, even by today’s standards. The GT-R is a bit faster than the R8, but the R8 is more comfortable and practical. Which one do you think is the best option? Let us know in the comments below.
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