Kgti8, if you have an itch to try the 8R then why not have a close look at the R 20 Years?
As it’s a special model it has unique features that will ensure it’ll hold value better than a normal R with a few options ticked.
A few options ticked is far more desirable on an R model as it’s the range topper so why not start at a conveniently marketed anniversary model with plenty of spec as standard(?)
I have no experience of the 8R and likely never will, but that’s almost a coincidence as the Clubsport happened to be launched first and that coincided with when I changed cars, with the R launch happening a couple of months later. If VW had launched them vice versa I’d quite possibly be owning an R right now.
I owned the full suite of Performance Golfs in mk7 guise (GTI PP, R, GTD, Ed40, TCR) so am aware of how different the 2wd vs 4wd models can feel.
I can fully and wholeheartedly recommend a mk8 Clubsport (looks good, fast, super sharp handling, good on fuel, best seats… ) but if you’ve not owned an R before then why not try one out. Everyone should own a Golf R at some point in their life, they’re outstandingly good cars.
So maybe have a close look at the R 20 years and own something a bit special (even if it’s only a tiny bit special)