Hello folks,

My first post here, i'm looking from some advise from you Audi experts.
I'm looking to purchase iether 2004 or 2005 Audi A8, in advancei appreciate all the feedback i can get.
So here we go.

1. First and foremost, how reliable are the current A8s? I hear conflicting information, some people say bad, some good, one of my friends (he owns a repair shop), says anything other then 4.2 V8cars are not that good, but A8s are pretty decent. I'm a big BMW lover (but unfortunatly hate the currentBangle design, so i'm looking to change), have been driving them for years, my current 97 540i has over 240K on and still going strong, so i'm looking for a worthy replacement. I drive over 100 miles a day, mostly highway, so reliability ishuge for me. That brings me to my next question.
2. How are A8s on fuel economy? ( i get about 17/22 on my 540). Is 93 a must?
3. What are the main differences between an 04 and 05 model? Any changes in options? Any big bug fixes?
4. What packages (and options)are available for the 04/05 model? (From what i can tell on Audi website the current 07 model has been changed from the previuos models, so i'm not sure if the packages and optionshave been revamped).
5. Is bluetooth available on 04/05? Is it standard or an option? If not available can it be retrofitted?
6.Does factory installed CD changer plays MP3s? If not can the aftermarket unit be used with full integration?
7. From what i can see both XM and Sirius is available for both models... or not? If not can the aftermarket tuner be used with full integration?
8. Are there anything to avoid that proved preblematic?

I appologise for the long list of questions, but i figured where wouldn't be a better place to ask if not here.

Thank you all.

 

1. Very reliable.
2. City is different depends on your foot, but highway I get around 25 mpg.
3. Changes are minor.
4. audiusa.com
5. Bluetooth is available through ' add-on ' compnonent. I belive it goes for around 300.00 and the device you get also supports sat radio, ipod.
6. No it can't play mp3s.
7. Yes and reffer to #5.
8. ?

Good luck on your purchase. You won't be disappointed if you decide to go with an A8. Before you do purchase, make sure you pay the 100.00 to have the car inspected by an audi tech at one of theaudi dealers. Depending where you are, try to find the most reliable dealer and take it there.

Piotrek..

 

Thank you!