The second-generation of Porsche’s Boxster roadster has been superseded by a brand-new model, which will make its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Porsche’s tradition of rolling out special editions of its standard models is legendary, but understandably, it’s too early for anything other than the standard Boxster and Boxster S in its range.

Likewise, the Audi R8 is expected to get a mild facelift this year, with the most significant change being the replacement of the so-last-year single clutch semi-automatic gearbox by a modern twin-clutch transmission.

Despite all this, EVO magazine has decided to compare the 2009 Boxster Spyder against the V8 version of Audi’s R8 Spyder. The two cars have certain things in common: they are both open-top, mid-engined sports cars made by German premium manufacturers and they were launched in 2009.

The rear-wheel drive Boxster with its 320HP flat-six may be less powerful than the 430HP, all-wheel drive Audi, but on the other hand, it’s the lightest model in Porsche’s range, tipping the scales at 1,275 kg (2,811 lb), nearly half a ton (460 kg/1,014 pounds) less than the R8 V8 Spyder.

So, which one is the faster around EVO’s track? Watch the video that follows to find out.

VIDEO