nem02-S8

The consensus has always been that the blend of sport and luxury on the D2 S8 emphasized sport ... lighter, quicker acceleration, more secure in the corners. Car and Driver called it "a gentleman's hot-rod".

The D3 turned the corner to luxury. Still more taut than other luxo-sedans, but NOT as athletic as its older D2 cousin. More electronic stuff to frustrate and fizzle out over time, more weight to haul around, and with the fish-mouth grill, a 'look-at-me!' problem.

mcarcane

just went though the same dilemma a few months ago..drove them both several times...ended up with a d2 s8 added an up to date nav/radio with touch screen and i couldn't be happier. Thats really the only major difference if you ask me. The d2 s8 is much more fun to drive and really feels like a tiny car on the road, plus i got the d2 s8 for much less then a d3 a8. for me it was a no brainier.

CarrHarris

I chose a 95 UrS6 over the 9000 Aero and now have a 01 D2 S8 and find the car to be amazing, especially the handling. I would encourage you to drive both but given your car history the S8 is probably for you.