Model Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan, performance variant
Target Audience:
Discerning luxury car buyers prioritizing performance, comfort, and advanced technology
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on the 'S' designation for Sport, highlighting the powerful V8 engine and sophisticated Quattro all-wheel-drive system
Luxury Appointments:
Luxurious interior materials, advanced comfort features, and high build quality characteristic of Audi's flagship sedan
Technological Advancement:
Integration of advanced electronics for vehicle control, safety, and driver assistance, typical of late 90s/early 2000s premium vehicles
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (Tiptronic), transfer case, front axle, rear axle, driveshafts
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, suspension components
Brakes:
Brake system, hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake disc and pad replacement, brake caliper service
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, mirrors, central locking, instrument cluster, climate control electronics, ECU diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, glass, sealing components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for various systems, common issues and their solutions
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission service, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair
Installation Removal:
Step-by-step guides for removal and installation of major components and sub-assemblies
Adjustments:
Alignment procedures, clutch adjustments, brake adjustments, electrical system adjustments
Diagnostic Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures including fault code interpretation and signal tracing
Repair Complexity:
Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers
Illustrations Diagrams:
Detailed step-by-step procedures with numerous pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and photographs
Special Tools:
References specific Audi special service tools and their usage for various repair operations
Specifications:
Includes detailed technical specifications, torque values, wear limits, and fluid capacities
Engine Code:
AEW, AGL, ART (Common for V8 in this era)
Engine Configuration:
4.2L V8 DOHC 32-valve
Bore X Stroke:
84.5 mm x 93.0 mm
Displacement:
4172 cc (4.2 Liters)
Horsepower:
360 PS (355 bhp / 265 kW) at 6000 rpm
Torque:
450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at 3400 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Control (ECU)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 Liters (with G12 coolant)
Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher, VW 503.00/502.00)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters
Transmission Type:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only automatic offered for S8 in this generation)
Drive System:
Quattro Permanent All-Wheel Drive
Transmission Fluid Type:
G 052 162 A1/A2 (ZF LifeguardFluid 5 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (total fill, check level procedure in manual)
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA frontal impact rating for comparable models of the era often yielded 4 or 5 stars; Euro NCAP not as prevalent for this specific model year documentation
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, available rear side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners for all seating positions
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 90,000 km (56,000 miles) for iridium or platinum plugs
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A: The 4.2L V8 engine in this S8 utilizes a timing chain, not a belt, requiring periodic inspection but not a scheduled replacement interval.
Coolant Specification:
G12 (VW TL 774-C) pink coolant
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (VW TL 766-Z)
Common Issues:
Ignition coil failure, camshaft position sensor issues, transmission control module (TCM) problems, coolant leaks (especially from plastic coolant pipes/flanges), suspension component wear (control arms, bushings), ABS/ESP sensor malfunctions, power steering pump leaks
Maintenance Notes:
Regular servicing is crucial for the longevity of this high-performance vehicle. Pay close attention to any warning lights or unusual noises.
Brand Philosophy:
Audi's commitment to 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Advancement through Technology), focusing on engineering excellence, design, and performance
D2 Platform:
The D2 platform was a significant step for Audi, introducing advanced aluminum spaceframe (ASF) construction in some Audi models, though the S8 primarily used conventional steel construction with aluminum body panels.
S8 Positioning:
The S8 served as the performance flagship of the A8 line, emphasizing a more potent engine and sportier chassis tuning compared to the standard A8 models.
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Production Run:
The D2 A8/S8 generation was produced from 1994 to 2002. The S8 variant was introduced in 1996.
