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The A8 was a radical new model for Audi in
1994. It's predecessor, the V8 was based upon the Audi
100 range, but A8 was different; Designed from scratch,
it was to use an aluminum space frame (ASF) body shell,
considerably lighter than mild steel. It's advantages are
obvious in terms of both performance and economy. It's
clean design, based upon the A4, has stood the test of
time well and it's comprehensive model range including
quattro driven models has helped to keep the A8 ahead of
many competitors. At 16ft 6ins long and 6ft 6ins wide,
the A8 is the largest Audi saloon and is a direct
competitor to the BMW '7' series and Mercedes 'S' class
cars. A8 has seen many specification changes and one
facelift but remains essentially unchanged.
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Oct
1994-Jul 1995
The A8 is launched in two forms. A 2.8 V6, 174 BHP front
wheel drive model and a 4.2 V8, 300 BHP quattro four
wheel drive. Both models are fitted with automatic transmission, the latter with 'all new' Tiptronic system
allowing manual shifts of gear. Standard equipment on all
models includes dual control electronic climate control,
electric sunroof, electric windows, electronically
adjustable/heated mirrors, twin front air bags, 16"
alloy wheels, green tinted heat insulating glass and
electric seat height adjustment. 4.2 quattro models
benefit from heat/light double insulating glass, Nappa
leather trim and adjustable rear head restraints. Options
include electrically adjustable seats, the front with
'memory', rear electric blind and manual side blinds,
'Competition' style 17" polished alloy wheels,
infra-red remote locking and headlamp wash.
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Jul
1995-Oct 1995
New 'Sport' version added to both 2.8 and
4.2 quattro models. Specification includes sports
suspension (20mm Lower), 7 spoke 18" alloy wheels
with 245/45 18W tyres, electrically adjustable front
seats with memory and leather sports steering wheel. All
models now with electric child locks on rear doors.
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Oct
1995-Jul 1996
New 3.7 V8 engine added to range in a
choice of standard or 'Sport' models. Both with 230 BHP
front wheel drive and 5 speed 'Tiptronic' automatic
transmission with DSP.
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Jul
1996-Sep 1996
Now with aspherical
drivers door mirror, interior switch to activate the
central locking, side airbags and remote control (radio
wave) central locking.
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Sep
1996-Sep 1997
All new multivalve 2.8 V6 with 193 BHP
replaces 174 BHP unit. 5 speed Tiptronic Transmission now
standard throughout the range.
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Sep
1997-Mar 1999
All new S8 flagship model introduced using
uprated 340 BHP 4.2 V8 driving through quattro four wheel
drive. Specification as 4.2 quattro but with addition of
18" Avus alloy wheels, aluminum door mirrors,
sports suspension, front heated sports seats, silk Nappa
Leather trim with optional (at no cost) half leather/Alcantara upholstery, grey instrument dials,
light maple wood fascia and door cappings and satellite
navigation. 2.8 now standard with 16" 'Competition'
alloy wheels. All other models now standard with front
electric seat pack and metallic paint.
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Mar
1999-Jan 2000
Facelifted version of A8 range introduced.
All models now have revised front and rear styling with
new bumpers, headlamps with Perspex covers, larger front
air dam with chrome framing and integrated front fog
lamps in lower valance. Interior modifications include
additional 'Sidegaurd' head airbag protection system and
revised fascia to include optional Symphony Stereo system
or satellite navigation system. Multivalve versions of
the 3.7 V8 and 4.2 V8 with extra power now replace
previous engines, the 3.7 now sporting quattro four wheel
drive. Standard level of equipment now increased on all
models.
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Jan
2000-Present
Long wheel base version of 4.2-quattro
model introduced. Wheelbase lengthened by 130mm between B
and D pillars. Additional equipment includes Electric
rear blind and manual side blinds, electric rear lumbar
support and heated seats.
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