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Audi S8
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Audi S8 | £13,995
Mileage: 38,910Model 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.
In 2002 Audi introduced two special edition versions of the S8 which were known as the 'run-out' models. These two special editions were available in two colours, Ebony black and Avus silver, both came with all available extras such as 20" 9-spoke alloy wheels, BOSE audio system, Xenon headlights, colour enhanced leather pack, leather sports steering wheel with tiptronic transmission controls and dark Myrtle wood fascia.
Due to the success of these special editions Audi announced further S8 special editions which added two new colour options, these were Aqua blue with Morning dew leather upholstery and Misano red with Silver grey leather upholstery. All of these special editions were priced around £59,000.
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
Front and rear parking sensors, Central locking, Headlamp washers, Cruise control, TV/Navigation system with a 6 disc CD auto changer, Bose audio system, Heated front and rear seats, Climate control, Electronically adjustable steering wheel, rear electric window blind, Electric mirrors, Electric memory seats, Multifunction steering wheel, Electric sunroof, Electric windows, Electric seat belt adjuster, 20" highly polished 9-Spoke alloy wheels, Xenon plus bi-xenon headlights, Colour enhanced leather pack, Parrot hands free kit, Milltek exhaust, KW variant 2 suspension.
Exterior
This iconic S8 looks fantastic in the special edition Aqua-blue Metallic, all the paintwork is in excellent condition with virtually no stone chips to be found. On very close inspection the only negatives to be found are a minor scratch on the bottom of the passenger door and on the edge of the boot lid, otherwise it is a stunning and rare example of this future classic. The previous owner has had the car fully detailed by Miracle detail, one of the best detailing specialist in the UK. It has then been stored in a private collection for the last year, covering minimal mileage. It is simply a stunning, fully conditioned example.
Interior
This S8 comes with soft nappa leather on the lower dash, centre console, handbrake and gear lever, which all have minimal wear. The 'morning dew' upholstery on the leather seats still provide excellent comfort and are all in great condition, feeling soft and unmarked. The dark Myrtle wood trim is a beautiful contrast, shining like new with no fading or cracks. The only signs of use in the cabin is the drivers door pull, that is showing some light scuff marks. The carpet is also very clean and protected with a new set of Audi over-mats. All the electrics work as they should, as do the dash gadgets and switch gear which all still feel solid. The boot is very tidy with no marks to the carpet, it houses the spare alloy wheel which still looks unused.
Engine & Transmission
Audi having had plenty of previous experience with the V8 means this engine is pretty much bullet proof, it starts on the button, idles well and effortlessly picks up to cruising speed. Provoke the accelerator further and the tuned V8 hauls the car forward, pulling it through the gears smoothly and quickly with a soundtrack to match. This example has recently had a full and major service by Audi, which included a cambelt change and all fluids replaced.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes
The 20" highly polished 9-spoke alloy wheels are all in perfect condition, having recently been refurbished. They are shod in a matching set of Pirelli tyres. The front brakes have been overhauled while at Audi on its last service, both front calipers were replaced along with discs and pads. The brakes are powerful enough to match the cars weight bringing the car to a stop quickly.
History File
This S8 was first registered in August 2002 and had its delivery inspection at the supplying West London Audi dealer. It then had a long life service inspection at 14,316 miles by Crawley Audi followed by another at 23,175 miles, before a recent service at 35,593 in June 2012 which included a cambelt change amongst other items, totaling over 3.5K. Since then the car has had an oil and filter change earlier this year.
The car comes with its original Audi document pack with all the manuals and service booklet. Its previous owner has recently fitted a Milltek exhaust system and KW variant 2 suspension, both of which remain in as new condition after minimal mileage. Both modifications are sensible, subtle, yet effective, without altering the cars strong and standard appearance.