A new short wheelbase Audi A8 is now available to order at £72,375. Powered by a 6.0-litre 48 valve W12 boasting 450 PS and 580 Nm, the all-wheel drive 'bahn-stormer promises stunning performance.
Aided by lightweight aluminium construction and Quattro traction the big Audi hits 60 mph in 5.1 seconds with 125 mph coming up in 16.9 seconds. Quick with a fairly large "F" then and certainly on a par with the
Jaguar XJR (if not quite up to the silliness of the S55 AMG Mercedes).
With special sports transmission settings, a lowered and stiffened suspension set up with 19" rims and a sports interior, the SWB A8 super saloon promises to carry the mantle of the well-liked previous generation S8.
Dave Jenkins - 16 Apr 2004