Call it the Sybil of luxury sedans. The Audi A8 exhibits split personalities, as its luxury, style, and performance can adapt to any situation -- classy business car, roomy family car, or personal funmobile. The popularity of the powerful 4.2-liter V8 engine in the Audi A8 was so high that in 2000 the A8 bid farewell to the 3.7 V8. Instead, they boosted the 4.2 horsepower even further, to 310-hp. The 2000 A8 still offered two trims, both sporting the new 40-valve 4.2 engine, 5-speed Tiptronic auto/manual transmission, and quattro all-wheel drive. Along with the base model A8 was the new A8L, a longer A8 which added five inches to the wheelbase and overall length, thereby increasing leg and headroom in the rear seats.
Living up to its reputation for safety, another new addition in the 2000 Audi A8 was curtain side head airbags. Combined with the already standard six airbags, ABS brakes, traction control, and rigid aluminum frame, this sedan is a sturdy tank. Other safety options include electronic stability program (standard on the A8L) and an obstacle-warning alarm when backing up. The interior got new leather options, two wood trim options, a redesigned, more convenient center console, audio controls on the steering wheel, and auto-dimming mirrors for night glare.
Outside, the understated classic looks of the 2000 A8 received some tweaking in the grille. Aluminum trim was added to the bumpers, and bigger headlights. More aluminum was added overall to the suspension components to reduce shudder at high speeds.
Owners of the 2000 Audi A8 love the way this car performs. It hugs the road, handles lightly like a smaller sports car, and has exciting power to shoot you up hills and past cars on the highway. The quattro is unbeatable in snow and ice. Interior accessories, large trunk, and extra room in the A8L ensure comfort and a pleasing passenger experience. A quiet, smooth ride cuts you off from the real world so you can concentrate on enjoying the drive. High depreciation values make it a good used car purchase. Drawbacks mentioned include its unreliability and high repair costs, lack of interior storage compartments, and visibility out the rearview mirror. Lack of adequate number of cupholders is apparently quite bothersome.
