The R8 beat out the Aston Vantage v8 and the Porsche Turbo in a C&D comparo (Aston 3, Porsche 2 and R8 1st) . Although the Porsche was faster on the straights and acceleration, the Audi beat it on the track, faster top speed and was the favorite in the handling dept.
Im a Porsche guy but the R8 is impressive. I think id get a R8 over the carrera S (even though that's an amazing car!) but not over a turbo or GT3.
Hard to pick anything over any Porsche...and i realy like the Aston..Good thing i can't afford any of them. id go nuts picking one..