This or a Porsche 911? Both delivering similar performance!
Sport sedans today can deliver extraordinary driving performance, but usually have a somewhat simple and unassuming appearance. One such sports sedan is the Audi S8 which made it first appearance in 1996 and at the time it delivered an acceleration time to rival the then model Porsche 911.
Here now we are looking at the fourth generation of this luxury limousine which was launched in early 2020 with a powerful V8 bi-turbo petrol engine delivering 571 hp and 800 Nm. Its acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h was an impressive 3.8 seconds which again was in Porsche 911 Carrera S territory.
Tuning specialist ABT Sportsline has just developed and brought to tarmac an extremely attractive performance upgrade.
The software of the high-tech ABT Engine Control unit has been precisely adapted for this model and can unleash a hefty 700 hp from this new S8 which is a 129 hp upgrade.
Maximum torque increases to 880 Nm. This amazing power is clearly reflected in the new performance figures where the standard sprint from a standing start to 100 km/h is achieved in just 3.4 seconds.
For vehicles equipped with ABT Power and ceramic brakes, an optional top speed increase to 270 km/h is available. The 5.18-metre limousine, weighing over 2.3 tons, generally cuts a fine figure, even when cornering. This is down to the meticulously designed standard suspension. The chassis can tilt up to three degrees when cornering, and a camera constantly monitors the next 15 meters, to facilitate active response to any uneven surface.
Aesthetically, the Audi S8 maintains an elegant, understated appearance. Therefore, upon request, ABT Sportsline adds just one discreet carbon fiber rear spoiler. Additional sporty trappings include 20-inch ABT GR or FR wheels. The latter is also available in 21-inch, as featured on the pictured vehicle. The design is a particularly attractive interpretation of the classic five-spoke design. Its diamond-machined outlines and mystic black finish provide an interesting color contrast. In turn, the GR features a striking concave rim well and a glossy black painted wheel chassis contrasts with a diamond-machined rim flange. The sporty and elegant wheel is also available as an alternative in matt black with an entirely diamond-machined finish.
From inside too, the owner can drop subtle hints to his passengers that they are not travelling in a standard S8. The ABT start-stop-switch-cap and ABT shift knob cover make this possible. A step on the accelerator will remove any doubt.
*The engine performance data is in accordance with the stipulations of EWG/80/1269. The process and dynamometer manufacturer have been certified and authorized by the vehicle manufacturer.
For further details, visit www.abt-sportsline.com/performance-measurement.
