Firstly - greetings to all of you. I am a fan of German cars from Northeastern Europe, Estonia, very soon to be buying (most probably one of these two) a E38 750il or an Audi S8.
I really cannot decide, which to buy, though! Well, the S8 is faster (0-60 etc are better) than the 750il (which is not too important, though - also, the difference is not that great), the S8 has an aluminium body and 4WD (which actually is quite useful, especially where I live - the roads and streets are in a quite awful condition at times, plus it is really slippery during the winters, ice and snow everywhere.. so S8 could probably offer me better steerability). On the other hand, though (unfortunately I have not driven either of the cars personally), I have heard that the Audi is quite uncomfortable, especially for the people travelling on the back seats, compared to the E38. Also, the suspension of the Audi is quite stiff and sometimes makes noise. The BMW is quieter and I have always liked to BMWs more anyway. I really do not like the looks of the S8. Still, at that point, I really cannot decide!
I would kindly ask you to help me decide, giving me out some good points about either car. I am by far not a specialist, furthermore, I even have not driven either of them! Is there anything that, for example, would definitely make my buy the S8?

Hoping for some nice advice and good points that would help me decide!


Thank you,
AsD

 

never driven an s8, but ill tell you at least find something with awd, becuase if hte winters you are explaining are anything like what you said, the bmw wil handle like crap in the snow (if it is anything like our old s-class, cls-class, or sl)

 

Thank you for the reply. Any more suggestions, though?

 

First, I have to admit that I haven't driven either the S8 or the 750. I had a 2001 BMW 330Ci with 5 speed Manual, and drove it all over Germany in the winter (with summer tires) and had no problems. Including driving from Wurzburg to Frankfurt through the mountains in a snow storm. I passed several snow plows, and never slipped an inch. The traction and stability control on the BMW are awesome. Also had a 525, and it was the same way.

That said, I currently have a B6 S4, and it is amazing. The 4.2L V8 is a great engine, and the AWD doesn't flinch at anything. It you are looking for a smooth ride, then an S8 may not be the best choice. The A8 will have a softer suspension. I rode in an A8, and i can tell you that it was a very comfortable car both in the front and the back, and rode great. I think the Audi seats are more comfortable than the BMW, too. The A8 flew off the line as well. More power than you will know what to do with. The interior in the Audi is nicer as well.

Also, if you live in Europe you have to consider gas prices. The V12 in the BMW will suck a lot of gas.

If I were you, I'd be looking at the A8 instead of the S8. The ride will be a lot more comfortable. But, if you don't like the looks of the Audi, then the BMW might be your best bet. BMW is famous for their suspension and handling for a reason.