2006 Audi S8 quattro with Lamborghini V10
First ever 10-cylinder Audi model

Using a 5.2-litre version of the Gallardo's V10, Audi will be showcasing their 2006 S8 quattro at next week's Tokyo Motor Show. The engine produces 450PS iat 7,000rpm, and peak torque of 540Nm at 3,500rpm - enough to give a 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed limited electronically to 155mph.

Weighing in at a comparatively low 220kg, the new engine exhibits the same meticulous attention to lightweight construction as the body shell of the S8 quattro, which in line with all A8 models features all-aluminium panels mounted on an aluminium Audi Space Frame (ASF). The result is an overall weight of 1,940kg, and a power-to-weight ratio of 232PS per ton. The first ever V10 from Audi is effectively harnessed by a chassis combining adaptive air suspension with the latest generation quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system, featuring a standard torque split of 40:60 (front / rear) that helps to optimise axle load distribution for even greater agility and steering precision.

The air suspension is based on the Sport set-up offered throughout the A8 range, featuring firmer damping and a 20mm ride height reduction in each of its four modes. The system has been modified for the S8 quattro to suit its even more pronounced sporting bias, while the speed dependent Servotronic power steering has also been further sharpened through revisions to the steering ratio giving a reduction in lock-to-lock turns. 20-inch S-design alloy wheels shod with 265/35 ZR 20 tyres distribute the power to the tarmac, and within these are massive 15-inch front and 13-inch rear disc brakes that keep the S8 quattro effectively reined in at all times. High performance ceramic brakes will also be available as an option, offering vastly improved temperature tolerance for the best possible resistance to brake fade and an operating life of up to 186,000 miles in everyday use - four times the lifespan of a steel disc.

Adaptive lighting technology is another distinguishing feature that only the W12 A8 models share as standard. The xenon plus head lamps incorporate additional static turning lights and dynamic cornering lights that respond to steering inputs to light the driver’s path perfectly through each corner. Inside the car, full leather upholstery with seat centre panels, side sections and head rests in contrasting colours, a three-spoke S quattro steering wheel with aluminium look gear shift paddles and facia inlays in either brushed aluminium or carbon fibre highlight this model’s position as top of the A8 range.

The S8 quattro is also equipped with the revised and now even more comprehensive standard specification from which all A8 models benefited earlier this year. This includes DVD-based satellite navigation, light and rain sensors, the Audi Advanced Key system (enabling keyless access and start-up) and voice control technology for vocal operation of radio, CD player, car telephone and navigation system. These features added to an already lengthy list that incorporates front and rear acoustic parking, cruise control, 14-way electric seat adjustment, electronic climate control, a 6 CD changer and the acclaimed Multi Media Interface system enabling intuitive control of many of the car’s functions.

In Germany, the price of the new S8 quattro has been confirmed at 97,600 Euros - UK pricing will be finalised nearer to the car’s 2006 launch.

Words: Classic Driver
Photos: Audi

 

now thats what i call a sedan.

 

Hehe, that's like a large RS4

Btw, have a look at these ceramic brakes. An option for the A6 and the RS4

http://www.rs6.com/forum/showthread....&threadid=7579

 

....it looks like a 300C IMHO

flame away

 

My thought exactly.

 

Its ok, nothing special really. Looks to subtle to be what it is... And to think the Gallardo now shares Engines, and interiors with a Seadan just sickens me.

 

VERY sweet, but I'd still take the new M5 over it.

 

Ditto my thoughts...

BTW- That 0-62 time seems slow....

 

BEASTLY!

 

Cool car but I would still take the new S 55 AMG or the new M5!
But it's supposed to be as expensive as the new S500 so if someone is considering the S500 this could get them a run for their money!

Just my 0.02$

 

Chordate shouldn't you have posted this in OT or Audi specific forum??

 

I would also take like 6 other sedans off the top of my head before that, and it does seem kinda slow compared to the M5 or AMG cars for the V10, but even in the gallardo its not insanely fast!

I love the A8 so like that alot, still think the RS4 is FAR better looking

 

ugh, love both cars but the V10 should belong to the gallardo and no one else. looks like vw is starting to shy away from their W-series, the S8 should've had a W12 or maybe a bigger W8 IMO

 

thats about the same speed and power figures as the W12 version of the A8L... hummm just like how the S55 and S600 produces the same #s i guess but with different types of engines... and Ferrari Slave... doesn't the 430 also kind of shares its engine with the Masarati???

 

I love it. Black, black wheels and mafia licence plate covers. Bring it on.

I can imagine an S8 ... on Tubi's drving down the road. Hopefully it doesn't get some POS auto transmission. DSG would be fine, though.