[Taxdr1965]

So I drove the I8 today and here are my impressions.

1. At first look I didn't like the looks of the car that much, but the more I looked at it, the more I liked it. The rear is very busy though.

2. The doors are pretty cool and getting in and out is not that bad. Inside I thought the interior was typical BMW. Maybe a little swoopier design. No carbon or anything. All digital dash was nice and typical I drive stuff.

3. Seats and driving position were very good and very comfortable. Visibility was great out the front but poor out the back.

4. Push the start button and nothing, no sound. Pulled away in electric mode and all was quiet. The ride is quite similar to the r8, maybe a little smoother. Steering is on the light side but good.

5. Step on the gas and the gas engine kicks in and you hear the engine come to life. Now I know the sound is piped in, but it sounds good. I was really impressed.

6. Speed and handling. Not near as fast as my R8, but similar to a boxster. Feels quick and you don't feel the speed but I looked down and was doin 100 before I know it. Handling was good to. Not like an r8, but maybe 8/10. Car had a real nice feel to it, felt light and lively.

Overall it was much better then I expected. They are giving great lease deals. $1200 a month 10k miles. 3k out of pocket.

I do think it is a better DD then r8 and for that money you drive the hell out of it and give it back.

It also gets great gas mileage and is green, if that matters to you. Might be fun for 2 or 3 years and wait and see what happens with all these new sports cars. R8, NSX and 570 should have taken a nice hit.