MODEL DETAILS
What: Audi S8
Era: Audi modern era
Model Family: S8
Market / Zone(s): EU, UK
Model Years: 1996, 1997, 1998
Production Span: 1996-1998
Number Produced:
Model / Generation Code(s): type 4d
Chassis / Matrix: D2, ASF
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Body Style(s): Sedan
Drivetrain Configuration: longitudinal front engine, all-wheel drive
Engine(s): 4.2-liter, 4,172 cc AHK/AKH V8
Power: 250 kW, 340 PS, 355 hp
Torque:
Transmission(s): 6-speed manual (standard), 5-speed Tiptronic (optional)
All-Wheel Drive Type: quattro permanent all-wheel drive with self-locking center differential, standard rear axle differential
Steering: variable-ratio steering system, specifically the speed-sensitive “servotronic” power assisted steering
Steering Ratio: 15.9
Wheelbase: 2,880 mm
Length: 5,034 mm
Width: 1,880 mm
Height: 1,18 mm
Curb Weight: 1,730 kg (3,814 lbs)
PERFORMANCE
Acceleration (0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 6.2 seconds
Top Speed: 250 km/h, 155.3 mph (governed)
OTHER DETAILS
Predecessor: Audi V8 (D1)
Successor: Audi S8 (D2)
Platform Mates: Audi A8
Concept Cars: ASF Concept, A8 Coupé
Assembly Location(s): Audi AG Neckarsulm
Designer(s): Chris Bird; Dirk van Braeckel
Motorsport Homologations:
WHEEL / TIRE DETAILS
Wheel Size(s): 8J x 17 standard, 8J x 18 optional
Tire Size(s): 245 50 17 standard, 225 50 18 optional
Bolt Pattern: 5×112
Offset: ET43 (17-inch wheel), ET48 (18-inch wheel)
DERIVATIVES
SPECIAL EDITIONS
SUMMARY
The Audi S8 (D2) is a high-performance luxury sedan produced by Audi from 1996 to 1998, prior to the first major revisions of the D2-generation S8. Introduced as the flagship performance variant of the Audi A8 range, the original S8 combined Audi’s aluminum space frame construction with a naturally aspirated V8 engine and permanent quattro all-wheel drive. It established the template for Audi’s modern S-model luxury sedans, blending understated design with high-speed capability.
The first-generation S8 was positioned as a discreet alternative to traditional rear-wheel-drive performance sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Unlike later revisions, the early S8 retained a relatively subtle visual identity, emphasizing performance through engineering rather than overt styling.
DEVELOPMENT & INTRODUCTION
The S8 was introduced in 1996 as Audi’s answer to the growing market for high-performance executive sedans. Building on the lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) architecture of the A8, Audi sought to pair reduced mass with a powerful V8 engine and all-weather capability via quattro all-wheel drive.
At launch, the S8 represented the most powerful and performance-focused production sedan Audi had offered, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for technical innovation and understated performance.
POWERTRAIN
The 1996–1998 Audi S8 was powered by a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine.
- Engine: 4.2 L V8 (32-valve)
- Maximum power: approx. 250 kW (340 PS)
- Maximum torque: approx. 410 Nm (302 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual with optional 5-speed Tiptronic automatic
- Drivetrain: Permanent quattro all-wheel drive
The V8 delivered smooth, linear power and was tuned for high-speed autobahn driving rather than aggressive, track-focused behavior. quattro all-wheel drive was standard, contributing to exceptional traction and stability in all conditions.
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
The S8 shared its aluminum-intensive ASF structure with the A8 but featured sport-oriented revisions.
- Aluminum space frame (ASF) construction
- Lowered and firmer suspension tuning compared to A8
- Larger brakes for improved stopping performance
- Speed-sensitive power steering
These changes resulted in improved handling and reduced body roll while maintaining the ride comfort expected of a luxury flagship.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
Early D2 S8 models (1996–1998) were visually restrained. Distinguishing features included:
- Subtle S8 badging
- Unique alloy wheels
- Slightly lowered stance
- Body-colored exterior trim elements
Unlike later versions, early S8 models lacked more aggressive aerodynamic elements, reinforcing Audi’s philosophy of discreet performance during this period. Notable design cues for the early D2 Audi S8 include the earlier rhombus-style S8 badges where small “S8” could be seen engraved into the rhombus. Earlier versions also featured an “Avus” style wheel more consistent with the original design of wheels originally from the Avus Concept and then later on the ASF Concept.
INTERIOR
The interior of the 1996–1998 S8 emphasized luxury, ergonomics, and long-distance comfort.
- Leather and Alcantara upholstery (market dependent)
- Carbon fiber or wood interior trim
- Sport seats with enhanced bolstering
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Advanced onboard electronics for the era
Despite its performance focus, the S8 retained the full luxury specification of the A8, positioning it as both a high-speed executive sedan and a refined daily driver.
PERFORMANCE
Period performance figures placed the early S8 among the fastest luxury sedans of its time.
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): approx. 5.7 seconds
- Top speed: Electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph)
The combination of V8 power and quattro traction made the S8 particularly effective in real-world driving conditions, especially at high speeds and in adverse weather.
MARKET POSITION & LEGACY
The 1996–1998 Audi S8 laid the groundwork for all subsequent S8 generations. It demonstrated Audi’s ability to compete directly with established performance luxury sedans while offering a distinct alternative focused on technology, traction, and subtlety.
This early version of the D2 S8 gained broader public recognition following its prominent appearance in the 1998 film Ronin, where its performance capabilities were showcased extensively.
Initially, the Audi S8 was not sold in the North American market, though Audi did choose to introduce the car in the USA and Canada following the mid-lifecycle refresh. Perhaps it was the popularity of the car’s presence in Ronin that helped make that decision.
PHOTO GALLERY
