The 12C and 650S share a TON of components:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMB4TS6sCYo
I've seen that video before but it's ignorant to assume that McLaren or Ferrari build most of their engine and chassis platforms from scratch and not share among other models. Like the 12C and 650S' engine differences, I'd be surprised if the 458's new engine is 75% different from the california. It does not make business sense.
But this is all bench racing so who cares.
I'm not assuming. The point is that the current R8 has the same power output and almost identical dyno graph as the RS4. They took a Saloon's engine and put it on a rebodied Gallardo platform. You said it yourself. My analogy is a Frankenstein car or kit car. I stand by it. You're not going to change my mind.
The P1 and 12C or 650S delivers completely different power and characteristics. Every engine is an evolution of a previous model. The VR38DETT is based heavily off of the VQ engines, but it's different enough to be unique and specific to the GTR.
......I didn't get mad at you in the slightest. I just think your statement about being a kit car was moronic. Gallardo must also be in you opinion a kit car as well......because the electrical switches are basically the same as in my 03' as well as the brake calipers and rotors.......care to change your statement now since the Gallardo wasn't released until 04' the Gallardo, if I recall correctly was designed by Audi engineers as well. So now what?
If you're not mad or offended, then take my opinion/take on the car as agree to disagree. You're trying to focus on small components as an argument, but you can't overcome the fact that the major powertrain and chassis is not original or unique to the R8. I don't care who designs the car, Audi or Lambo. If it's an original, exclusive, and competent design, then I can like it. Hence why I've always expressed I like the Gallardo/Huracan better. It's my preference. They are the tip of the spear and the R8 takes the trickle effect.
If Audi made a sleeker, low stanced machine with it's own specific engine, then I would give them props. They have yet to do that. Honda did it in the 90s and they are trying do it again.