2001 Audi S8 Quattro review from United Arab Emirates

ESP Controller failed at 70k.

Car was stalling in traffic in very hot weather (45 degree C/plus ambient), apparently the result of a failed non return valve.

Headlight level adjuster failed at 72k.

Front brakes have squealed when reversing since the vehicle was purchased, until...

90k service just completed (i.e. at 95.6k) ; replaced the front disc rotors, oil cooler assembly due internal fracture and resulting oil / coolant mix... not a good look, the rest was standard major service items: pads, oils, filters and so on.

The vehicle had extended warranty and so the dealer dealt with most defects prior to the 90k service.

I do a lot of K's at range of speeds from bumper to bumper in extremely high temps to very high speed also in extremely high temps. Temps in winter are low 20s / C in the daytime.

This vehicle is without doubt one of the most pleasant super sedans I have driven.

Fantastic acceleration without any fuss (or in a hell of a rush if you use the steptronic to advantage), superb handling / suspension that inspires the driver to see if he can get the thing unstuck, the interior...wow!!!

I was always very happy owning and driving the Holden Special Vehicle product from Australia (Club Sports mainly... an SS and Senator included over the years), but this super sedan is on another planet.

In the Middle East environment and by comparison with other European marques, this vehicle has aged well...5 and 7 series BMW owners with vehicles of the same age age are complaining bitterly of mainly electrical (wiring) and electronics problems perished seals.