I currently own an '93 100. Im coming into a new profession, and want more than anything than to purchase an A8L preferably with the W12... but thats not manditory. The V8 will do just fine. But my question is: Is it worth it? From you all personal experiences with owning them... from an Audi lover to another... should I drop the dime and get it, or go with a customized A6? Just doing some homework for the big step (its not in the immediate future, but it will happen within the next year). Just your thoughts... Thanks

 

You have 120k for the W12??

If so that car is the top of the line Audi has to offer

 

I find the 4.2L combined with the 6sp transmission to be over the top, second to (not very much). Of course I don't travel the Autobahn and would probably be locked up if caught cruising over 100 mph.

So where would you let a V12 stretch it's legs? Inquiring minds would like to know.

 

I'm forced to agree with Benton, twelve cylinder engined cars in the US are 95% image. The V8 can do just about everything the W12 can, and I feel that the only real-world advantage of the W12 version is the badge. The '06 A8s all have the giant grille, so there is no longer an especially noticeable diff between the two. The V8 is plenty unless you need to pull some tree stumps on your ranch, so save yourself some dough, you'll need it when MMI or something else packs up and leaves after a few years.

 

I agree with everyone here.. the 12 is all image. It is also 4 more cylinders of Service $$ that you will be looking at. The V8 is a proven engine with all the kinks worked out. You can't say the same for the 12. As for the price.. If you MUST have a 12 cylinder and don't like the $120k price tag, buy a VW Phaeton with the same 12 Cylinder engine on Ebay. They are selling there used 2005 models with very low mileage for like $50k!

 

I just traded an '05 CL55 for the A8 W12 because I realized (too late?) that the image of a MB was not me. Also, the CL needs to be parked for much of Chicago's winter. What I did want is power and torque. It's not about stretching it's legs, it's about...."I want it now". If you've experienced the W12 and decide it's not for you, good choice not to go there. For me personally though, once I tasted the gobs of power and torque of the CL, and found similar power available in an A8....screw the image. Give me that car now!