scottphillip

I drove one and liked it. I' don't really need the LWB. My service advisor recommended the TDI too. I didn't see one with the equipment and color I wanted.

HouTexAudi

This is the same decision that I made when I bought an '11 Jaguar XJ. The 510HP supercharged model was about $15K more than the 385HP normally aspirated one and I went for it. Just depends on what is important to you--I have a hard time passing on more HP, so I got the S8. In addition, you do get some extra features, so it's not just for the motor--21" wheels, the cool diamond patterned seats, the beautiful carbon fiber trim, stainless steel pedals, different front facia and grill, brushed aluminum rear view mirror covers, quad tail pipes, S8 badges, and S8 door sills. All of this makes the car very distinctive and exclusive and I like that--you don't see a lot of S8's on the road.

scottphillip

Plus you get the sport differential which cost a few thousand on an A8! I looked at the Jaguar XJR. I like the Audi controls and seats better. it's easy to rationalize spending the extra money.

My A6 has really been a joy. I just want more room up front and those massaging seats.

How did you like the XJ?

HouTexAudi

I loved the XJ. It was a real head-turner in Ultimate Black with London Tan interior--a lot flashier than the S8. I also think it handled a little better with less body roll than the S8, but the S8 is definitely considerably quicker. I had a '13 A8L "loaner" for 7 months until my '14 S8 came in and I think it was actually a little quicker than the XJ SC, so it's certainly no slouch (I misspoke earlier--I had the 470HP XJ Supercharged, not the 510HP XJ Supersport--I have the 510HP motor in my '13 XKR). I think Audi underrates their HP figures a lot--I have now seen 3 different dyno figures for the stock S8 at about 570HP even though Audi says 520HP, so I think that the A8 is really more like 470HP instead of 420HP, similar to the XJ SC.

I just don't keep cars more than 2-3 years and it was time to move on, but I would certainly consider the new XJR with the 550HP motor next time if they upgrade their electronics. They are really behind in the technology department compared to Audi and others.