Ryan818

I am looking at getting into an A8 or S8. I am looking at an older S8 vs. a newer A8. I am not familiar with either except for the fact the S8 has higher output engine and upgraded brakes/suspension. Can anyone give some insight into which would be a better car for a dd. I am into performance which is why the S8 is considered. I know that a new S8 would be the ticket - but it is a little out of my reach right now. I know the new base Corvette is as good as the last gen Z06 which is why I would like to know if the new A8 is as good as the last S8? And yes, I know that Corvette is Chevy and we are talking Audi's.

jago1

i think the newer 'D3' A8 is more refined than the previous version in every way, including the S8.
imo, despite the lesser hp, the D3 handles more sharply with a much better air suspension and looks and feels newer with lots more toys.
the older S8 was no slouch and i had a nice example but it was still prone to some rattles and that generation is vulnerable to tranny probs. go with the D3 and you wont look back.
good luck!

Polidori

I loved my '00 A8 but really wanted the extra hp of the '03 S8. But, when I sold the '00 there were no pristine, CPO '03 S8s available. I went with an '04 A8L and don't regret that decision at all. The D3 is far superior to the D2. However, if you love the D2 bodystyle and don't want all the bells and whistles of the D3, then find a low mileage example and enjoy. I still drool every time I see one on the road.

Silver Streakin'

same boat here. welcome to the club. If you don't want/need CPO, get the D2 S8.

greenie

are not in the same league and they arent supposed to be. I have always found that the A8 is quick enough for me and handles very well for such a large car. If i need a different "atmosphere", I jump into my 07 C6 Corvette and away I go. The S8 will give you better handling but with the right tires, I think that youd be happy with the A.

Silver Streakin'

ok, there might be a handful of D2 S8s that still qualify for CPO, but good luck finding one.

pkirby

Bought used, third owner and the CPO has come in handy for instrument cluster and trans control module replacements.

PaulW

No depreciation to worry about, every problem with the car is well documented and easily repaired, the car is much more like a cockpit versus a luxury cruiser and I am in the process of putting in a MMI system (installed), factory XM and factory bluetooth.

I absolutely love the car, and did I mention it is really, really quick? Handles incredibly well also.

If you want a luxury cruiser, get the D3, if you want old school performance, get the D2.

Ask this question on the D2 board, you'll get a differnt answer as compared to the D3 board. Both cars are incredible.

Ryan818

Thanks for the information. It is nice to have input from someone who has owned both cars and has the experience first hand. I think I will go with the newer A8.

jago1

good luck either way!