LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Audi A8
built 288 days ago
The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury executive car built by the German automaker Audi to replace the V8 model as its flagship offering. First brought to the market in 1994, most versions of the A8 have featured quattro all-wheel-drive as standard as well as a Multitronic or Tiptronic automatic transmission. The A8 rivals long-running German competitors, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, along with the Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS, and the long-wheelbase Volkswagen Phaeton; all are competitors in the same size and price category. Two generations of the A8 have been produced in both short and long wheelbase form.
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The first-generation Audi A8 was offered from 1997 to 2003. Although it was one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market by virtue of its aluminum frame, it never had its successor's flair for style or performance. Understated in its adornments inside and out, the original A8 failed to deliver the over-the-top ambience that's so important for high-dollar luxury sedans sold in the U.S. However, if you like the idea of owning a more discreet luxury car, you can buy a used A8 for considerably less than you'd pay for a used BMW or Mercedes.
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Of those imported cars, Audi A8 saw a 30 percent growth in sales. Notably, China made Audi A4 was still a major force in the domestic B class car segment. The model reached sales of about 15,000 units during the period from January to October 2007, leaping 40 percent from the same period of a year earlier. In addition, FAW Volkswagen will this December launch Audi A8L sedans and introduce Audi R8 sports cars into China, the world's second largest automotive market. Formally established on February 6, 1991, FAW Volkswagen has gradually enriched its product portfolio and grown into an automaker with a daily production capacity of more than 1,000 vehicles under the Jetta, Bora, Golf, Caddy, Sagitar, and Audi brands. FAW Volkswagen, which earlier focused on the northern Chinese segment, changed its marketing system from March 2006 and strived to expand its market share in South China.
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Making the Audi A8 (along with the A8 L, a long-wheelbase model with increased passenger room) such an engineering breakthrough begins with its aluminum foundation. The ASF sheds the weight of traditional steel without surrendering strength, allowing the A8 to invite a host of performance challenges. Working with the ASF are the A8’s full range of technological innovations, from its legendary quattro® all-wheel drive system to a litany of safety features — all while enveloping passengers in a luxurious cabin during every smooth, quiet ride. The Audi A8 resonates excellence without excess, indulging drivers only by meeting their highest expectations of performance, quality and comfort.
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The Audi A8 has been completely redesigned and re-engineered for 2004. Fast, smooth, and sophisticated, the 2004 A8 L may be the new leader among the high-end luxury sedans. It feels smoother and more refined than the Mercedes S-Class and it's easier to operate and better looking than the BMW 7 Seri...more
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Audi A8