IndianaSam

Guys

Given the choice between a D2 A8 and a D3 A8, which would you choose, and why?

I am looking at both. I drive 25K miles per year, and am thinking about this choice. On one hand, the facelift A8 seems like a low cost alternative to the A8 that is fast and fun to drive. However, I would want to upgrade the nav system, so maybe I should just wait and get an 05 D3. I heard the 04 can be problematic. I had a 97 D2, so I know about Audi teething pains.

Any input is appreciated.

Rowlie

although I think the D2 is a great car, so many improvements were made on all fronts--especially technology--that I wouldn't hesitate to get the newer model. I have a 2004 and it has not been problematic. Just make sure it has the software updates and good front bushings.

dtmaguire

I agree completely re D3; it is my understanding that some early '05s had OnStar - to be avoided at all costs. Had a wonderful time with my '05.

Happy hunting.

jago1

D2 S8 was a nice car with oomph and presence and well-made interior but the D3 is a whole new ballgame. even the stock A8 swb handles better than the old S8 and doesnt give up too much power either. the toys are superior and the car is better put together i think. my d2 did have a few rattles. and often overlooked, the d3 is 5 inches narrower making it less of a barge too.
good luck either way there are good examples of both.

Mister Bally

What is the big deal with the car having On-Star? Mine has it. I don't subscribe or use it. Of course I couln't if I wanted to as it is analog and no longer supported. The green LED looks nice on it though.

Also, I could care less about Bluetooth. I have a 3 year old cell phone with a speaker phone button. That's enough for me.

An '04 or '05 saves you another $20k. That's a lot of gasoline and insurance money. Plus insurance is cheaper.

JMHO

Rowlie

I have it and subscribed to it until they dropped service. I've got a few useless buttons and a green light, but that doesn't seem to affect anything else. I have Bluetooth via the BMW Bluetooth upgrade module and the Motorola phone cradle, Sirius satellite radio and the AMI connection in my glovebox. I plug in my iPhone and everything works great.

I think it says a lot that a 4 year old car can still be pretty much cutting edge as far as the infotainment system goes. The only things missing are digital radio and traffic info integration with the nav system, neither of which are even available on a 2008.

roughyear

why are the '05s with OnStar to be AVOIDED??!

deengo

I would love to get the Bluetooth and the connection for my Ipod.

Any details on getting me all set up would be greatly appreciated


Current:
2004 A8L (Silver)
2005 A6 4.2 (Black and Amaretto)(wife drives this)

Former:
2001 A6 4.2 (Black on Black)
1998 A6
1994 Audi 100 (my baby, took it to 580,000km)

Audi for life!!!