Early S8 (2013-15) or Later 4.0T A8(L) (15-17)

[Bordom]

Good day to the sparseness that is the A8/S8 forum. I've been wanting to make a jump to a D4, preferably an S8, and I've been doing much research on the cars in question.

I'm currently rolling around in a B8 S4 but I want to upgrade within 1-2yrs. Ive done a ton of maintenance on that car which has been deferred for some time from the previous owners. What draws me most is the aluminum construction of the D4 line which greatly benefits me in Canada. Winters are typically harsh and the use of Brine, salt and sand at the same time is ridiculous.

If I'm going to make the jump its preferably into an S8; Might as well go for the top of the line. The S8 around here (13-15) models are typically priced from $43-50k. For the same price, and in some instances cheaper, I could get into a newer 15-17 A8 4.0T, or 13-14 A8 4.0T for $29-37k. I realise the 4.0T lineup is basically the same across the board (A8/S6/S7/S8), with the exception of the RS6/RS7 cars. The main differences being turbo size and intake plumbing.

I've also been considering 3.0TDI models as those can be found inexpensively at $25k. However, the only real benefit to those is fuel economy, not performance.


Questions to summarize:
1. Which 4.0T car is better, an early S8 or later A8 4.0T model?

2. Is the 3.0TDI a hidden gem in terms of perfomance, and not just fuel economy?

3. Which model/years D4 are preferred?

Thanks.

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[Audibot]

I've also been considering 3.0TDI models as those can be found inexpensively at $25k. However, the only real benefit to those is fuel economy, not performance.


Questions to summarize:
2. Is the 3.0TDI a hidden gem in terms of performance, and not just fuel economy?

Can you clarify what you are thinking in terms of "hidden gem"? If you're looking for pure performance, the 4.0TT is the way to go. But I really suggest driving a TDI to get a feel of how different the diesels are.

Fuel economy and torque are the biggest advantages for a TDI for sure. This can be improved on further with a tune (say, Stage 2) and deletes (DPF delete, adblue delete, etc). And with a new turbo, intercooler, and tune you could get quite a bit more power compared to stock (from 240 hp to high 300s; can get into 400s with some more extreme options), it won't have the same performance as the 4.0TT.

I'm Stage 2 on my A6 TDI and love it. Lot better throttler response and better (3+ mpg) than stock. I also realize it's not an S6, and never will be.

[Bordom]

Can you clarify what you are thinking in terms of "hidden gem"? If you're looking for pure performance, the 4.0TT is the way to go. But I really suggest driving a TDI to get a feel of how different the diesels are.

Fuel economy and torque are the biggest advantages for a TDI for sure. This can be improved on further with a tune (say, Stage 2) and deletes (DPF delete, adblue delete, etc). And with a new turbo, intercooler, and tune you could get quite a bit more power compared to stock (from 240 hp to high 300s; can get into 400s with some more extreme options), it won't have the same performance as the 4.0TT.

I'm Stage 2 on my A6 TDI and love it. Lot better throttler response and better (3+ mpg) than stock. I also realize it's not an S6, and never will be.

I mean can make great power/torque with great reliability and even better economy. Realistically that would probably be the best choice for a reliable daily. From what you've said though, it would take A LOT to get the TDI up there in terms of power.

I'm a V8 guy. I always wanted one since I first started driving Audi's and when I finally did an S6 4.2 swap into my 03 Allroad, I loved it. That's mainly why I'm looking at a 4.0T so hard because I love the exhaust note and the performance to go with it.

That being said, is there a benefit to getting an Early S8 vs a later A8 4.0T? I understand 2016ish there was an update to the 4.0 A8 model with styling/performance changes. Is all the other running gear the same from the A8/S8?

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[shahzad.mufti]

I have a 2013. However if going s8 and wanting to exterior kits and all you'd want to go the 15+ however power wise just a tcu tune. Intake plumbing upgrade. Turbo upgrade along with a down pipe and stage 2 youre pretty much up there hanging with some big name supercars.
Tdi is great for a drag on 1/4.. 1/2- 1 mile runs want to stick with the v8tt in my experience. I just like the 15 for the front end lights and grill mainly. However im behind the wheel and hardly see it from the front thats why I stuck with my 13.

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[Bordom]

I have a 2013. However if going s8 and wanting to exterior kits and all you'd want to go the 15+ however power wise just a tcu tune. Intake plumbing upgrade. Turbo upgrade along with a down pipe and stage 2 youre pretty much up there hanging with some big name supercars.
Tdi is great for a drag on 1/4.. 1/2- 1 mile runs want to stick with the v8tt in my experience. I just like the 15 for the front end lights and grill mainly. However im behind the wheel and hardly see it from the front thats why I stuck with my 13.

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How long have you owned yours thus far? Any big repairs yet? Carbon clean?

Looking for a little experience

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[iamGHANA]

I have been in the market for a D4 for a few months now as well, prices are great - thanks to depreciation. I had my sights set on the 4.0T engines until i read through over 400 posts of the 4.0TT Turbo Failure Thread on Audiworld. Holy Molly
It is a matter of when the turbos will fail, not IF... and that spooked me
That said, a good extended warranty should take care of that 13k or so repair bill when it fails

[Bordom]

I have been in the market for a D4 for a few months now as well, prices are great - thanks to depreciation. I had my sights set on the 4.0T engines until i read through over 400 posts of the 4.0TT Turbo Failure Thread on Audiworld. Holy Molly
It is a matter of when the turbos will fail, not IF... and that spooked me
That said, a good extended warranty should take care of that 13k or so repair bill when it fails

I'm not worried about those. Hard expensive things dont phase me lol.

At the end of the day, is it A8 or S8 4.0T?

I'm not opposed to a TDI, but current socio-economic conditions prohibit test drives

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[shahzad.mufti]

Only front brakes which at a dealer they ask 2k for parts and labor however they're 600 each rotor and pads are inexpensive. If you can do brakes than its a easy task for the fronts. Carbon cleaning wasn't much necessary yet however I did end up doing it. Getting a oil catch can installed soon. However I did my own oil change using the molygen liquimoly. It's a solid car. Just check the intake pipe to make sure no cracks as I forgot to check that on purchase and was stuck with that i went with a local shop to custom make a couple intake hoses. Going to do a tcu tune and a stage 2 soon and a custom exhaust. Love the s8 to be honest greats supersaloon ever!! I do like the a8l as well if you want to spoil the kids. Easy motor to work on the s8.

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[Bordom]

Only front brakes which at a dealer they ask 2k for parts and labor however they're 600 each rotor and pads are inexpensive. If you can do brakes than its a easy task for the fronts. Carbon cleaning wasn't much necessary yet however I did end up doing it. Getting a oil catch can installed soon. However I did my own oil change using the molygen liquimoly. It's a solid car. Just check the intake pipe to make sure no cracks as I forgot to check that on purchase and was stuck with that i went with a local shop to custom make a couple intake hoses. Going to do a tcu tune and a stage 2 soon and a custom exhaust. Love the s8 to be honest greats supersaloon ever!! I do like the a8l as well if you want to spoil the kids. Easy motor to work on the s8.

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Only real repairs was routine maintenance? That's nothing in my book lol.

Guess I'll have to wait until a more promising time to test drive a TDI, A8L and S8. Probably hold out for an S8 lol

[Audibot]

Only front brakes which at a dealer they ask 2k for parts and labor however they're 600 each rotor and pads are inexpensive. If you can do brakes than its a easy task for the fronts.

You're overpaying if you are paying $600/disc. I have S8 front calipers on my TDI (same as S6/S7), and OE 400 mm discs can be had for <$300 each online. The REALLY annoyingly expensive part are the adhering clips that go into each piston of each caliper. 12 in total. Most of us re-use them.

OP, I think you should hold out for the S8. As someone who loves a V8, you wouldn't be happy with a TDI--I just have that feeling.

[Lost Cosmonaut]

The S8's 4.0TT is closer to the RS7 than the S6/S7. It's 520hp, it just has slightly smaller turbos and slightly lower boost than the RS7. On the other hand, the 4.0TT in the regular A8/L is basically the same as the one in the S6/S7.

The 2013 S8 has a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds. There wasn't many cars in it's original price range in that time period that were that fast, and none of the ones that were could fit 4 adults in abject luxury.

[larsvanetten]

S8. No question. 4k for tune, downpies, bam..supercar.

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[Reverie]

Only random thoughts, not exhaustive research...


Which 4.0T car is better, an early S8 or later A8 4.0T model?

They are different animals... a matter of preference. Many factors to consider. Drive them both before buying.


Which model/years D4 are preferred?

Later is better if you want to avoid the "clogged filter / failed turbos" issue, and (arguably) the newest car you want to spend your cash on will probably give you the most overall satisfaction.

[shahzad.mufti]

You're overpaying if you are paying $600/disc. I have S8 front calipers on my TDI (same as S6/S7), and OE 400 mm discs can be had for <$300 each online. The REALLY annoyingly expensive part are the adhering clips that go into each piston of each caliper. 12 in total. Most of us re-use them.

OP, I think you should hold out for the S8. As someone who loves a V8, you wouldn't be happy with a TDI--I just have that feeling.

Where have you found oem rotors that cheap..

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[Sven911t]

I just picked up a 2013 S8 over a 2014 tuned A8. Couldn't be happier! I read somewhere on here that there are some forged internals in the S8 motor as well. I Figured if i want the ability to get a bit crazy with a build, I'd prefer to have stronger internals. that carried weight with me, FWIW.

I am in the midst of doing the JHM oil screen relocation, APR stage2 and JHM downpipes. More to come!

[Audibot]

Where have you found oem rotors that cheap..

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Here, to start. I've seen them as low as $255 per disc.

[ZOSO4]

I have a 2016 A8 4.0T sport, love the car! and live in Canada. For a stock family sedan its a sleeper car. No major issues with it yet aside from the exhaust vibration at 3,000rpm
Getting a stage 2 and exhaust done in 2 weeks should be up around the 600hp

[MDS1985]

Google Audi 4.0t engine self study program. The .pdf goes into a bit of detail of the differences between the A8/S6/S7 and RS7/S8 4.0t engine versions. As with all things if you can afford the better one (S8), get it!

[S6Man4.0tt]

I've driven the s8, a8, s6 alot. S8 has a bigger tougher ZF8 transmission and lower compression engine with bigger bearings ect. S6 has DSG vunerabilities. A8/S6 is high compression and prone to knock at lower octane. All of them are great when they work. S8 comes standard with alot of stuff an A8 or S6 wont. I think used S8 is the most value. A8 rides softer but is fast and nice. I love them all to be honest but S8 wins over all.

[09S5]

I have a 2017 A8L 4.0T sport
With a sprintbooster throttle controller.
Due to warranty no tune yet....

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[Mooti]

I have a 2016 A8 4.0T sport, love the car! and live in Canada. For a stock family sedan its a sleeper car. No major issues with it yet aside from the exhaust vibration at 3,000rpm
Getting a stage 2 and exhaust done in 2 weeks should be up around the 600hp

Hi! Did you ever get this done? I would love to hear the car since I have the same one! Please message me if with a video if you can. Greatly appreciate you.

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[BLURS8]

How'd that, JHM oil relocation install turn out for your car?