What's the news?
ABT Sportsline is in the running for the most obscure historical figure ever referenced in a new car press release. The German tuning company thinks King Ludwig II of Bavaria (born 1845, died 1886) would have enjoyed its modified Audi S8. If you're not familiar with Ludwig II, he was responsible for commissioning elaborate castles in his native Bavaria.
Cosmetic modifications for the facelifted Audi S8 don't go as far as adding tall towers and battlements, but it is possible to order 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels painted silver, gun metal or black. ABT Level Control suspension is also available, lowering the ride height by 25mm.
Changes to the engine management system raise the 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8's power output from 520- to 640hp. Torque is increased too, up by 130Nm to 780Nm, and ABT claims an increased top speed of 174mph.
Anything else?
ABT can also supply a stainless steel, four-pipe muffler system, said to make a sound fit for a king.
John Lambert - 9 May 2014