1997-2003 Audi A8: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1997-2003 Audi A8 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Interior materials
- Acceleration
- Side airbags
- Exterior finish
- Ride
- AWD
- Quietness
- Build quality
Cons
- Price
- Control layout
- Fuel economy
Vehicle Highlights
Audi's luxury flagship slides into the dimensional gap between a BMW 7-Series and the smaller Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Use of aluminum for most frame and body panels, however, means the A8 weighs 300 to 500 pounds less than comparable luxury sedans. As its numerical designation suggests, a 3.7-liter aluminum V8 engine powered the A8 3.7 sedan, which came with front-wheel drive and standard traction control. A 300-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 went into the A8 4.2, along with Audi's permanently engaged Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Quattro automatically sends power to the wheels with the most traction in slippery conditions. Both models were equipped with six airbags: dual cushions in front, plus smaller airbags in each of the four doors. Rear side airbags were claimed to be an industry "first." Standard equipment also included antilock braking, an antitheft system, and 5-speed automatic transmission. Each A8 sedan also got a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power sunroof, cruise control, keyless entry, leather upholstery, and wood interior trim.Three option packages were available. The Cold Weather group featured heated steering wheel and front/rear seats, plus a ski sack. The Warm Weather option included insulated glass and sunshades for the back window and rear side windows. A solar sunroof in that group included interior fans that engaged when the car was parked in the sun. Rivals included the BMW 7-Series, Lexus LS 400, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Audi A8 base Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 8 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 8 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 64 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1997-2003 Audi A8. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1997-2003 Audi A8.
Year to Year Changes
1998 Audi A8:
A glass moonroof replaced the previous aluminum sunroof for 1998. The mandatory 5-speed automatic transmission was now a Porsche designed Tiptronic unit, with manual-shifting feature. Dual-pane "acoustic" glass was newly standard. A new option package included high-intensity xenon headlamps.
1999 Audi A8:
Nothing of consequence was new for 1999 in Audi's premium sedan, again offered in A8 3.7 form with front-drive, or as the A8 4.2 with Quattro all-wheel drive.
2000 Audi A8:
In addition to a mild restyling for 2000, Audi's flagship lost its lower-priced, front-drive A8 3.7 model, and the A8 4.2 earned a $3000 base price cut. New "curtain" side airbags were installed, and the 4.2-liter V8 engine gained 10 horsepower (now rated at 310). The Sideguard airbags were designed to drop down from above the doors in a side-impact collision. Also added: a 3-point rear center seatbelt, steering-wheel audio controls, and automatic-dimming mirrors. Three new options joined the list: a satellite-linked navigation system, an "Acoustic" parking system that warned of obstacles when backing up, and an antiskid Electronic Stability Program. A longer-wheelbase sedan was scheduled for debut during 2000, promising three extra inches of rear legroom.
2001 Audi A8:
A 360-horsepower S8 and a longer-body A8L joined the line-up in 2001. New standard features for the A8 and L included an antiskid system, an oil-level sensor, front passenger-seat memory, and a new steering wheel with controls for manual shifting, audio, and available cell phone. Audi extended its warranty from 3 years/50,000 miles to 4/50,000.
2002 Audi A8:
A new radio with in-dash 6-disc changer, a "Sport" setting for the transmission, and new wheels marked 2002 versions of Audi's flagship line. New safety features for '02 included an in-trunk emergency release and an optional tire-pressure-monitoring system. OnStar assistance became available midyear, and could be enhanced with extra-cost in-car e-mail service.
2003 Audi A8:
Audi's flagship sedan sees little change in preparation for a model-year 2004 redesign.
Our road test for the 1997-2003 Audi A8 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2003 Audi A8 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2003 Audi A8 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Despite its aluminum structure, the A8 is no lightweight. Even so, it performs with vigor. An early A8 3.7 accelerated to 60 mph in just under 8 seconds, in our testing. That's quick, yet somewhat slower than the class norm. Audi initially claimed 6.9 seconds for the A8 4.2, which seems a tad optimistic considering the added weight of the all-wheel-drive components. But the later A8L clocked 7.1 sec 0-60 mph, while the high-performance S8 needed just 6.4 sec. Gas mileage isn't great, but could be worse. An A8 3.7 managed 18 mpg in hard city and freeway driving, while an A8 4.2 yielded just over 18 in more gentle running. Both models offer polished road behavior. Though adroit, handling falls just short of the BMW-sporty realm. It's sporty, true, but cornering is grippy and predictable--roughly like that of the largest Mercedes. The A8 feels far better planted at high speeds than a Lexus LS 400. All-wheel drive in the A8 4.2 is terrific, and an exclusive among the model's direct competitors. Wind and engine noise are Lexus-low, but mild tire drone occurs over coarse pavement. Ride quality is excellent: supple, composed, and well-controlled. The A8 irons out rough spots as well as its German rivals, and with better body control than a Lexus. "Panic" braking is short and undramatic, though pedal action is somewhat doughy--not quite as firm as we'd like. As expected in view of the price, an A8 packs all the amenities that would be expected in a top-drawer automobile. If it happens to have Cold Weather, Warm Weather, and Convenience Packages, it ranks virtually as a limousine. The A8 does not quite match the biggest Mercedes-Benz and BMW models for rear passenger room, but head clearance is adequate for 6-footers. Leg room borders on generous, and there's enough width for three medium-size adults out back. All seats are firm and supportive, but front buckets let occupants slide around somewhat during hard turns. Audi's dashboard has more buttons and switches than most luxury cars. Low-set climate controls are especially tricky to operate while driving. Visibility is constrained over-the-shoulder because of the roof styling, but good otherwise. Cargo space is ample, with a low liftover for easy loading. Due to bulky side panels, however, the trunk is rather narrow. Fortunately, the interior provides plenty of small-item stowage, though the dashboard glovebox is not as big as it appears at a glance. Part of the extra new-vehicle cost comes from the fact that aluminum demands more hand labor than steel. Audi claims that aluminum adds strength while saving weight. Perhaps bearing out that assertion, the A8 does feel rock-solid on most any surface. Paint, interior materials, and detail fit/finish have been great on test cars we've tried. That should be a given, considering the car's price--whether new or used.
Value for the Money
We like the A8, but cannot quite recommend it. Why? Simply because it's been overpriced for what you get, and secondhand prices continue on the high side. Audi's Quattro is the only all-wheel-drive system in this car's class, but most people don't really need it. Other brands give better value, even if they're less high-tech than an Audi.
We like the A8, but cannot quite recommend it. Why? Simply because it's been overpriced for what you get, and secondhand prices continue on the high side. Audi's Quattro is the only all-wheel-drive system in this car's class, but most people don't really need it. Other brands give better value, even if they're less high-tech than an Audi.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Audi A8 base Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 8 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 8 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 64 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Audi A8 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Audi A8 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brake noise:
Disc brakes make squealing noise. (1998)
Brakes:
The ABS (anti-lock brakes) may activate unnecessarily under normal to light application due to cracks in tone wheels. (1996-05)
Climate control:
The heated steering wheel may not heat up or may not stay warm. (1997-99)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $810 |
| Alternator | $465 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,100 |
| Brakes | $745 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $800 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $2,310 |
| Exhaust System | $775 |
| Radiator | $670 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,600 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $700 |
Our price chart for this generation Audi A8 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2003 | |||
| A8 4.2 Quattro | $15,000-17,000 | $13,700-15,500 | $9,500-10,700 |
| S8 Quattro | $19,000-21,000 | $17,500-19,300 | $12,400-13,700 |
| 2002 | |||
| A8 4.2 Quattro | $12,400-13,900 | $11,200-12,500 | $7,100-7,900 |
| S8 Quattro | $16,000-17,500 | $14,600-15,900 | $10,200-11,200 |
| 2001 | |||
| A8 4.2 Quattro | $10,000-11,200 | $9,000-10,100 | $5,200-5,800 |
| S8 Quattro | $13,500-14,800 | $12,300-13,500 | $8,000-8,700 |
| 2000 | |||
| A8 4.2 Quattro | $8,500-9,700 | $7,700-8,700 | $4,400-5,000 |
| 1999 | |||
| A8 3.7 | $6,200-7,200 | $5,400-6,300 | $2,700-3,100 |
| A8 4.2 | $7,300-8,300 | $6,600-7,500 | $3,600-4,100 |
| 1998 | |||
| A8 3.7 | $5,300-6,200 | $4,600-5,300 | $2,200-2,500 |
| A8 4.2 | $6,200-7,000 | $5,400-6,100 | $2,700-3,000 |
| 1997 | |||
| A8 3.7 | $4,500-5,300 | $3,700-4,400 | $1,600-1,900 |
| A8 4.2 | $5,400-6,200 | $4,600-5,300 | $2,200-2,500 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Audi A8 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 198.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3682-4068 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 17.6 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 23.7 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.9 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.2 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.4 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two engines have been used in the A8. Both are dual overhead-cam V8s. The 3.7-liter V8 was installed in the A8 3.7, developing 230 horsepower. That model came only with front-wheel drive and traction control. A 300-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 went into the A8 4.2, which came with Quattro all-wheel drive. A 5-speed automatic transmission was standard in 1997. A year later, a Porsche-designed Tiptronic unit, capable of manual gear selection, ousted the conventional automatic. The 3.7-liter engine disappeared after 1999, and the 4.2-liter V8 gained 10 horsepower in 2000. In 2001, the 3.7-liter V8 was replaced by a 4.2-liter with 360 horsepower.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.2 / 255 | 360 | 317 | 5-speed automatic: 15/21 | 5-speed automatic: 15.1 |
| dohc V8 | 3.7 / 226 | 230 | 235 | 5-speed automatic: 17/26 | 5-speed automatic: 17 |
| dohc V8 | 4.2 / 255 | 300-310 | 295-302 | 5-speed automatic: 17/26 | 5-speed automatic: 19.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Audi A8 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 A8 |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1997-2003 Audi A8 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1996-03 A8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission:
A locking cable may move out of position over time. With the locking cable out of position, the shifter can be moved out of the "PARK" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock. This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning. Dealers will modify the automatic transmission locking cable by installing an adjusting piece that will secure the locking cable in place.
1997:
Discharge of static electricity in low-humidity conditions can activate driver's airbag when driver enters or exits car.
1998-99:
Some tie-rod seals may not seal properly; if moisture and/or dust particles enter the swivel-bearing mechanism, the bearing could wear over time, diminishing steering control
2000-01:
A "blind cover" at the filler neck of the fuel tank may not seal properly, allowing fuel vapor to escape. In the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
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