ive played with both quite a bit..
i would agree that the Rs outshine the vrs if you have enough power. Rs are definately a lot punchier, definately hit the lower notes...
but so do the VRs. i actually think the VRs have a little smoother sound and although the SQ of the Rs is good, i might take the vrs for certain types of music. (contrary to pop. oninion)
at about 5-600 rms, the VRs seem pretty maxed for daily driving, whereas the Rs are just gettin started
to the poster who's messin with the VR 15 he got for cheap, try a sealed enclosure, they do really well sealed and it still has great LFE.. i think mine was 3.5 cubes net.
so to sum it up.. Rs are louder if you have the power, if not Id prolly go with VRs.
oh and to chevyaudio, itll prolly surprise you with its spl for just a well priced woof