2009 Audi S8

Like any Audi vehicle, the 2009 Audi S8 does not fail to disappoint, especially when it comes to design. Combining the power of the 5.2 liter V10 engine with 385 mm ceramic disc brakes, the car itself is an unusual but sophisticated mean machine.

Performance

The S8 is a muscle-bound cousin of the luxury Audi A8. While it is still a luxury sedan, it boasts of a 450 horse power at 7000 rpm. It also boasts of 398 pounds per foot of a torque at 3500 rpm.This car can do a 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. It is equipped with a six speed Tiptronic transmission. It is big and heavy, with a weight of 4586 lbs. However, the Audi S8 is still a good drive even if it has weight issues because of the excellent suspension system and the all-wheel drive system the Quattro has.

The air suspension system of the car is one of its best features. It constantly makes adjustments based on road conditions and the driver’s preferences, making it a good car to drive and all it takes is a push of a button. This is very important if you are driving the car in twisty roads and in compromising weather conditions. The suspension system also complements the car’s 20-inch wheels. This car features an all aluminum exterior that helps make the 4500 lb car lighten up. The design is also aggressive and very sporty to look at. The lines are clean and very sleek.

With the Premium Package, you can don’t have to operate this vehicle with a key: Just press the engine start button while holding down the brake and the car will come to life as the LCD dashboard lights up.

Interior & Exterior

The interior of the car is also luxurious. Sure this is a performance car, but it is also a luxury car. The seats are covered with premium leather. The trimmings and accents are made of wood and the finish is so sleek, like the other S models. It has a user friendly multimedia interface equipped with Bluetooth navigation. It also features a 350 watt Bose stereo system that can blast your favorite music.

The backseat features a flip down armrest that contains a first aid kit. It also has a pair of cup holders. It has retractable side mirrors. It is outperformed by other S models though and the critics deem the S8 as a luxury sedan more than a performance car. The car can accommodate up to five people but it’s more comfortable as a four-person car.

The S8 keeps it subtle but it also maintains the air of exclusivity by churning out limited edition colors both in its interiors and exteriors. There is one with the silver exterior with a burgundy exterior, or a black exterior with a caramel interior. The trunk is also spacious, which is good for towing luggage. The Audi S8 gives off that sexy, action movie-Hollywood vibe that people would really love.

Safety

Safety features of this car is standard, with the front and side airbags. The ceramic disc brakes take the cake, though. It is similar to the brakes of cars like the GTRS, 369 Stradale and Zonda F. It also has the Electronic Stability Control, the trunk pressure monitor, daytime running lights and rear seat head restraint. It also has pre-tensioners that automatically tighten when there is a collision, preventing the passenger from slipping from grips of the seatbelt.

It is also the company’s flagship sedan and it competes with BMW’s M series (MSRP $62,857; 11 city / 17 hwy) and Mercedes Benz’s CLS63 AMG (MSRP $67,726; 12 city / 18 hwy).

Overall Rating
84 out of 100

What others say:

“In highway cruising mode, road noise is more pronounced and the ride isn’t quite as soft as we’re used to in cars that cradle their occupants in such luxury.”KBB

“The 2009 Audi S8 is a solid choice for a premium luxury sport sedan thanks to impressive performance, all-wheel drive and stealthy exterior styling. But although it comes in at a considerably lower price point than many of its rivals, the S8 still falls short in some aspects.”Edmunds

“Though not overly quick, the 2009 Audi S8, essentially a performance-enhanced A8, will charge from 0-60 in 6 seconds and will top out at 155 mph (with a 60-0 stopping distance of some 112 ft).”Car Gurus

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan Base Price: $74,535.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 19 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 199.3 in. (506 cm) Width: 74.6 in. (189 cm)
Height: 56.1 in. (142 cm) Curb Weight: 4586 lbs (2080 kg)
Wheel Base: 115.9 in. (294 cm) Ground Clearance: 4.9 in. (12.45 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5
Performance
Engine: 5.2L DOHC V10 Displacement: 5.2 Liter
Horsepower: 450 hp Max RPM: 7000 rpm
Torque: 398 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA

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