When you think of German automobile excellence, Mercedes and BMW are 2 brands that simply are evoked. Audi, too, has been making a name for itself and is balanced to cause a large amount of difficulty for its Bavarian cousins with its current line of vehicles and planned models. The elite of the crop Audi is the A8, a real champ and a brilliant alternative to BMW and Mercedes. Let’s take a harder look at Audi’s top-of-the-line sedan and what it’s got to offer to you, the ECU sedan enthusiast.

Back in 1994 Audi decided to take on Mercedes and BMW by introducing an all new car the full-size Audi A8. As the 1st auto built on an entirely aluminum platform [for weight savings optimization] the Audi A8 has been continually restating the German luxury car market ever since. Back in 1997, the Audi A8 became the first car in the world to offer six air bags. Later, more powerful diesel and gasoline powered engines were introduced to further separate the brand from its competitors.

Since 1997 the A8 has been marketed in the United States, but it hasn’t swiped as many sales away from Mercedes and BMW as Audi had was hoping. Still, the current model offers much flair and technological invention to be really a different model from BMW’s 7-Series or Mercedes’ S-Class.

One thing that Audi enthusiasts have appreciated about the Audi A8 is its various engine choices. Certainly, a strong petrol powered V8 is offered, but other engine selections including V10 and V12 engines have shown up as well. Turbo diesel aspirated V6 and V8 engines have made their way onto European versions of the automobile, but not in America where emissions standards are much more restrictive.

So, what exactly can you get with an Audi A8 besides a wide selection of engine choices? Much, as published here:

6 speed Tiptronic transmission

Quattro all wheel drive

Power sunroof

Bi-Xenon headlamps

Front and rear foglamps

Premium sound system

18 inch alloy wheels

Full leather interior

much more!

For a retail price of just below $70,000 for the “base” model, the Audi A8 is priced competitively against similar sized BMW and Mercedes models. However, if it is speed that you need, then the W12 model will get you there in about five seconds. In this situation, you will have to pony up at least $118,000 for the top-of-the-line Audi A8.

Of course, not everybody would like a car as big and as costly as the Audi A8. If your preferences are more straightforward, the automaker markets 13 other models in North America and its Volkswagen division also offers a large choice of less expensive models.

Then again if it is an Audi A8 that you would like, then price will not be an object. At least Audi hopes it is that way for many of its well heeled customers!.

How fast can your car travel at top speed? Compare you car to some of the fastest cars in the world at thesupercars.org and also have a look at Audi A 8 for sale.