View Full Version : Another vote for the red instrument lighting: Car & Driver


Ali B
10-01-1999, 12:22 PM
The November issue of C/D has a comparison test of 5 luxury sedans (BMW 740iL, Audi A8 4.2Q, Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ8 and MB S430). In the Audi section, they mention that they miss the old red instrument illumination scheme, something that was unique to Audi. On the other hand, you never know. They might have criticized Audi for having red illumination if they had not changed it.


By the way, the '00 A8 4.2Q came in third behind the 740iL and the LS400. Harsh ride, weak brakes, excessive tire noise and tight rear seat accommodations (for three) cost the A8 some points. On the other hand, the A8 was the best accelerating car of the whole group,and was praised for its excellent Tiptronic transmission and excellent grip.

The new interior of the A8 looks great. The test car has additional wood trim around the audio and climate control panels (where the A4 2.8 has black plastic). The new color-coordinated interior, along with the new center console, and new seat design really bring the interior of he A8 up to date.

Kennon
10-01-1999, 01:21 PM
I have not yet seen the article, but I find C&D's ranking suspect at best. The Lexus is arguably a very nice luxury car, but it is in no way a driver's car. The BMW is definitely showing its age and finished well behind the A8 and new S-class in a recent Euro (read: far more knowledgeable than C&D) comparison. It makes you wonder...