AutoWeek AutoFile - 2007 Audi S8

Merc1 · **AutoWeek AutoFile - 2007 Audi S8 -** 04-11-2007, 07:47 AM

AT A GLANCE:

LIKES
All-wheel drive
Understated styling
Monster acceleration

DISLIKES
Pop-up speakers
Throttle response
Brake feel

OTHERS CONSIDERED
Mercedes-Benz S550
BMW 760i
Maserati Quattroporte

What separates the S8 from its BMW and Mercedes competitors is the standard quattro awd system, a feature owners noted as making a difference in their decision to buy the car. “It’s the perfect blend of power and refinement, especially for northern climates where snow and ice call for four-wheel-drive,” one owner wrote.

The understated, under-the-radar style is also something buyers like. There are no boy-racer exterior styling cues, despite the S8’s ability to blow the doors off the vast majority of cars on the road today.

Audi’s S line, like AMG from Mercedes, M from BMW and even SRT from Dodge, stands for nearly uncompromised performance. The S8 is a fitting flagship for Audi’s performance line.

cont....

OWNERS SAY . . .
I am pleased with my S8’s performance. My dislikes are minimal: the contoured seats that don’t let me comfortably spread out and the lack of a heated steering wheel. I really like the car’s understated looks that fly below the radar of pretentiousness. Car aficionados will know the difference; others won’t. What makes it special is its split personality. In drive, it is a refined business sedan and daily commuter. In sport mode, it is a different car, with a thirst for rapid acceleration and a throaty growl to accompany it. Jac Blasi, Madison, Wis.

I love this car, with its shorter wheelbase that helps handling, as do the suspension and tires. The car is fast, but launching it with the paddles is tough. The interior is great, with firm seats, but is also familiar to those with A8 experience. The silver mirrors, quad exhaust, wheels and spoiler complement one another well. What the S8 needs is better grunt and sound out of its exhaust, which is too docile for the car. The brakes are good but not great. I do have the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, but I do not think it’s worth the price. While the Mercedes S550 is plusher and more luxurious, it isn’t as sporty. Alan Klaus, Norwell, Mass.

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