The Audi S8 is a four-door luxury sedan manufactured using the Volkswagen Group D platform. It was first introduced to the car-buying public in 1998. The first generation of the S8 was the 4.2 quattro 4D which was offered to European customers at the time. It shared the high-performance Audi A8's D2 platform and "Audi Space Frame" and was powered by a 335 hp, V8 engine.

The five-speed transmission automatic transmission was standard for this model for North American buyers, while European consumers could also go with a six speed manual transmission. Four-wheel drive was also a standard feature.

The S8 5.2 FSI quattro was brought to market in late 2005 for the 2006 model year. Audi buyers could expect to get 21 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg for city driving. This vehicle shares a platform with the Audi A8. The S8 can take its occupants from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 160 mph.

Powered by a V10 engine based on the one that powers the Lamborghini Gallardo, the S8 5.2 produces 444 hp with displacement of 5204 cm. Since the Audi is larger and heavier than the Lamborghini, an engine that produces more torque at lower revs was needed. It is also equipped with the Bosch Motronic MED 9.1 engine control unit; its function is to control the direct ignition, fuel injection, spark coils, and drive by wire throttle.

The S8 is outfitted with pressurized air springs and a multi-link suspension layout (front and rear). Other ways that this model is slightly different from the A8 are the single frame grille, the S8 badges on the front and rear, and the spoiler on the trunk lid. The four oval exhaust tailpipes also differentiate the S8 from the A8.

This model also features high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and dynamic cornering lights with the ability to swivel. Daytime running lights (LEDs) are also part of the Audi S8's standard features.

Anyone driving an Audi S8 can't help but be impressed by this model's leather sports seats. The color display for the Multi Media Interface (MMI) is a great feature and fact that the instrument dials use white illuminated needles makes it much easier to track this important information while driving. The existing sound system (BOSE) can be updated to a Bang & Olufsen Advanced version, if you would rather have 1,000 watts of power in your vehicle.