1998 Audi S8

The S8 we are selling was first registered in January 1998 and so far in its colourful life it has had six owners. We would point out that one of these owned the car twice.

Our seller has owned the car for nearly five years and as is so often the way, he owns quite a number of other cars. The S8 has therefore been locked away for the last three years and has now at last been released from its slumbers, ready to engage and excite a lucky new owner.

The car has covered a reasonable 124,000 or so miles and there are plenty of receipts and a stamped-up service book showing the care and attention lavished on the car in its 25 year life.

The silver paintwork appears to have stood the test of time rather well. It adds to the Q-car look and doesn’t scream look at me. We like discreet and only when the driver unleashes the car’s V8 engine, will the world at large realise that they are in the presence of something special.

Is the paintwork all original? We cannot be sure, but there appears to be very little to criticise.

Those splendid Avus alloy wheels look to be in fine fettle too and most likely have been refurbished at some point in the car’s life. There are some small signs of light kerbing which some may wish to rectify. Tyres have plenty of tread left, but in view of the car’s considerable performance, we might look to upgrade them.

Topping off the car is the standard factory fit sunroof. A bit unnecessary in this age of air conditioning one might think, but many still enjoy that semi alfresco feel.

Black leather, black trim, how very Germanic! A tad austere perhaps, but there is no doubting the quality. Splashes of wood trim help to break up the expanse of black.

The seats are supremely comfortable, as one would expect, and the leather appears to be tear free. There is some evidence of wear to the side bolster on the driver’s seat. The leather does show its years and we would be tempted to spend a few hours with some leather feed and colouring to bring them back to their best.

We also note that the driver’s central armrest is missing.

The carpets appear to be unworn but would doubtless benefit from a professional clean.

The gargantuan boot is in good order and under the floor sits a full-size spare wheel plus tools. There is also an emergency warning triangle in the unlikely event that you should break down.

This is a well-equipped car, so there are heated electric seats up front, a premium sound system and climate-controlled air conditioning. We have not tested the latter, so a re-gas may be required.

We are told that all the electrics function as they should.

The engine compartment looks to be in good order and that V8 engine is an impressive sight. A new battery was recently fitted.

The ‘cat’ light is currently illuminated, and this will no doubt need investigation, though the next MOT is not due until March next year.

There is also a brake warning light showing on start-up, which may be something as simple as some new pads required. Best to check it out.

We have included a selection of photographs of the S8’s underside and we can see nothing here that would concern us, other than some surface rust on some of the suspension components.

We are told the car drives well, with the power still to excite, though the seller did mention a slight misfire on tickover, possibly linked to the ‘cat’ light.

Lots of reassuring stamps in the service book is always an encouraging sign. This is a complex car, so good to see the owners have taken maintenance seriously. The handbook pack is also present and correct.

In latter years, the car has been maintained by a company called quattro-tech, which specialises in VW/Audi Group cars. There are bills to view in amongst our pictures.

Around a year ago, the seller replaced the plug leads and coil pack and he reports that the car has had 3 cambelt changes during its life.

The latest MoT test was taken last month with just one advisory for corrosion to one of the rear springs.

We include an online HPI report run at the auction start which shows no finance outstanding and no insurance markers for theft or damage.

Space, pace, grace…. We cannot recall who said that or about what, but it seems apt here. Here is a car that will transport its occupants in the lap of luxury, yet when called upon so to do, has power aplenty to engage and excite the enthusiastic driver.

Yes, there are some issues that will want addressing, but we estimate a modest £4,000 to £6,000 will be enough to ensure this classic S8 adorns your driveway. So get bidding right away.

Inspection is always encouraged, within Govt. guidelines of course, and this particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.