Two models comprise the A8 line: A8 ($62,200) and A8 L ($67,200). Related to these is a high-performance variant called the S8 ($72,500).A8 and A8 L are powered by a 310-horsepower 4.2-liter dohc V8, driving all four wheels through a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The A8 packs all the luxury features you'd expect for its price, and rides on a wheelbase of 113.4 inches, comparable to that of a modern, full-size U.S. sedan.
A8 L is stretched out over a limousine-like wheelbase of 118.5 inches, for more rear-seat leg and headroom. Xenon headlights, heated seats front and rear, a ski sack, rear-compartment sunshades and a heated steering wheel are standard on A8 L, and are part of a $2,550 Premium Package for the A8.
S8 is propelled by a stouter version of the same 4.2-liter V8, producing 360 horsepower. Hotter cams, a two-stage variable intake manifold and a less-restrictive exhaust perform this trick, while at the same time upping torque to 317 pound-feet at 3400 rpm (from the A8's 302 pound-feet at 3000. The S8 can flash from zero to 60 in 6.3 seconds, and dispatch a quarter-mile in 13.9.