I had the current R8 V10 Plus (4S) before I ordered the Performante back in November.
Did various test-drives with the Performante and I can tell you for sure that the Performante and the R8 have zero (no kidding) in common.
Once you switch in Corsa mode (Performante), hell breaks loose. Not only does the Performante exhaust sound louder and more aggressive (actually, it is the loudest stock car I ever encountered), the gearbox makes specific hissing and clacking noises when in Corsa mode, it is really difficult to describe but it feels as if you are in a real race car. The Performante is the perfect car for those who want the best combination of performance, emotions and reliability. The tech is bulletproof, which makes the Performante even more desirable because many super sports cars out there on the market have their issues.
Cost of ownership is also much lower (at least in Germany) than for other cars in this class, specifically Ferrari and McLaren.
10 years ago, when I was in my forties, I may have opted for the 720S instead. Now I am looking for an emotional driving masterpiece and the Performante is just that, a car which puts a smile on my face every single day I get to drive it. Can't wait to get mine in April.