D3 A8 Quattro Series 1

AUDI didn’t rest on its laurels as far as the all-new D3 A8 range was concerned, offering greatly improved dynamics and driveability in a classically styled and high-tech four-door sedan package.

This Quattro time all-wheel drive underpinned both V8 models – the 206kW/360Nm 3.7 Quattro as well as the 246kW/430Nm 4.2 Quattro. Both utilised a six-speed automatic Tiptronic gearbox.

Advanced multi-media interfacing, extremely well specified interiors and an endless personalisation options list ensured that this A8 played in the same league as BMW’s brilliantly dynamic E65 7 Series, while out-manoeuvring a quality-challenged Mercedes.

Two long wheelbase models joined the range, the A8 L 4.2 Quattro in August 2004 and a 331kW/580Nm 6.0-litre W12 flagship a year later.