Real differences between the a8 and s8?
 

Apologies for draining the fountain of knowledge here folks...
So, as my thinking progresses Im now looking for a simple mans guide to the real world differences between the 4.2 and the s8 please? If possible to include a simple visual / spec list differencs and also a driving / costs / servicing guide.

many thanks as always +++

This is covered all over the shop, but basically the physical differences between an A8 4.2 in Sport spec and an S8 are pretty small - alloy mirror housings and different wheels. Main mechanical difference is a slightly higher power output from the S8 and much shorter gearing (so you're pulling more revs for a given road speed in the S8 than in an A8) - consequently an S8 gives worse fuel economy. Think 20mpg on a good day!

S8 has different wheels, S8 logos on the door sills, S8 logo on the instrument cluster, 750rpm more before redline, Different bonnet and front lower grills, Ally door mirror housings, 360BHP (vs 310) and much shorter gear ratios. It feels significantly quicker - but has an increased thirst as a result. S8's after about 2000 had Brembo brakes, but to be honest they're still a bit poor like the A8 ones so dont get excited.

The A8 sport and S8 both share the same Recaro sports seats front and rear, electrically adjustable and heated in front, driver with memory.

On the plus side, the S8 benefits from Sat Nav and xenons as standard kit, and are often well specced as they were often bought by top brass with money to burn.

Tax disc, insurance, servicing and running costs (fuel aside) are about the same for the 4.2 A8 and S8 in my experience.

If its a weekend car, you dont travel far, or fuel is no object - The S8 is the better beast and worth paying a bit of premium for.

If never reaching much above 20 MPG is going to sting, consider the 4.2 A8 as its longer gear ratios will see you 25MPG+, or LPG.