4 Star Classics
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Audi S8
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Audi S8 | £9,995
Mileage: 46,000Model History
The Audi A8 was first introduced in 1994, being the replacement model for the Audi V8 which ceased production in late 1993. Unlike the Audi V8 which was built using an existing steel frame the A8 used the all new Volkswagen group D2 platform 'Audi space frame' which was an all aluminium monocoque. This leap in new technology helped the car to save weight but maintain structural rigidity.
In 1996 Audi introduced its higher performance 'S' model the S8 4.2 quattro. To set the S8 apart cosmetically from its A8 roots Audi fitted it with a lower front grille, polished twin exhaust pipes, chrome trim and aluminium alloy door mirror housing which all gave the car an understated yet sporty feel reflected with subtle S8 badging.
In 1999 along with the A8 the S8 received a facelift and benefited from an uprated 355bhp version of the 4.2 V8 with five valves per cylinder, lowered sports suspension with 30 percent stiffer spring rate and speed sensitive power steering, also known as 'servotronic'. Audi also introduced the Bosch 5.3 anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, and ventilated front discs.
The S8 was unforgettably cast in the 1998 John Frankenheimer film 'Ronin'. Exhilarating chase sequences and four wheel drifting around Parisian streets cemented the S8's iconic status among petrolheads forever.
Equipment
Electric Heated Seats with Memory, Electric windows, Cruise control, Electric heated mirrors, Built in Sat Nav/CD/TV unit, Central locking, Sunroof, Digital climate control, Arm rest, ESP, ABS, Xenon lights, Electric rear blind, Parking sensors,
Exterior
The S8 is finished in Racing Green and apart from a few stone chips, the paintwork is generally very good. On closer inspection you will find a tiny mark at rear near side panel and rear near side door trim. Being a real 'wolf in sheep clothing' it can be recognised by the solid aluminium door mirror covers, chrome-effect beltline and lower front grille trim and polished twin exhaust pipes, along with subtle "S8" badges. The whole chassis has been made from aluminium so they are rust free and much lighter. The rear windscreen and side windows are factory tinted giving its passengers extra privacy.
Interior
The interior is fitted with heated sports seats, trimmed with soft grey leather and still in very good condition. There is a little wear to the driver seat bolster, however all the rest of the seats remain in excellent condition. The light carpets are clean and free from stains or serious wear and the wood trim has no cracks or scratches. The dashboard is also in very good shape with no scuffs or cracks from sun damage. All the electrics work exactly as they should and switch gear feels solid to operate. The electric rear window blind is fully operational.
Engine & Transmission
The powerful 4.2L V8 engulfs the engine bay and produces a mighty 355bhp. As well as being exceptionally clean it also benefits from a recent service and work which includes a gearbox oil change and both front upper control arms replaced. As you can imagine, the gearbox changes effortlessly thoughout the gears, providing a smooth yet powerful ride.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes
This S8 is fitted with standard 6 spoke 18'' alloys wheels, shod in a matching set of tyres all of which still show a good amount of tread. There is a small scuff along the edge of one of the wheels however the rest are still in excellent condition. The brakes feel strong, pulling the car up with no moment of hesitation in a smooth, straight line.
History File
This S8 has a main dealer history up to 35k miles with total of 6 stamps in original book. Service work was then continued by a specialist, the latest service being done at 44k miles in June 2013. A Cambelt kit, water pump and aux belt were fitted by 'Just Automotive Solutions Ltd' in October 2012 at 35,499 miles.
In the history file there are also some old MOT's certificates, tax discs and set of a spare keys.