And if the A8 W12 wasn't that much different from the S8, we'd all know that by now. Lastly, I don't see anyone comparing the S55 AMG to the S600, it's the same scenario, though both cars accelerate to 60 in the same time and have the same horsepower, they have two COMPLETELY different characters.

i suppose out of these cars I would pick the S8 but the car I would buy if the whole market was open to me would be the W12. The S8 just doesnt make all that much sence. Why not get an M5 if you want a fast car that seats 5 comfortably. I would get the M5 and the W12 because the W12 is absolute gangster. The S8 is a car I would prefer because I am a driving enthusiast.

W12 without a doubt. It's 20,000 euro's more expensive and exclusive, has 2 more cylinders, and I really do not need the sporty part of the A8...it's too big.

W12. a car of that size and weight shouldnt' be sporty.

so true notic... my thoughts exactly...

While it's all true that the A8 deserves a luxury life rather than being driven around like a sports car, some owners just like the thought of having a Gallardo-derived V10 under the hood, instead of a W12 that is inherent in cruisers like the Continental GT, Flying Spur and the Phaeton. The V10 also has an awesome sound, and together with the bragging rights of having the 'S' badges, rims and a subtle body kit, it isn't so bad a preposition after all. Even though it's never a sports car.