A heavy dose of power makes this full-size luxury sedan a lot of fun to drive. The 2008 Audi A8 L W12 features a 48-valve, 6.0-liter, 450-hp DOHC W12 engine, achieving 428 ft-lbs of torque. Paired with a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission, the engine's power is helped by the W12's lightweight aluminum body. Handling is improved with the quattro all-wheel-drive system that comes with mechanical center and limited-slip center differentials. An updated four-setting adaptive air suspension and a quicker steering ratio improves overall handling. In addition to 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, dual front, front-side, knee, and side curtain airbags, a tire monitor, and traction and stability control, the W12 gets mirrors with turn signals, an optional new lane-departure warning system, and blind-spot alert. Also standard are larger 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, adaptive cornering lights, xenon lamps, foglights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and daytime running lights.

Like the A8L, the 2008 A8 L W12 is 204 inches in length, adding five more inches of legroom for backseat passengers. The W12 also gives rear passengers controls for audio and climate, along with power rear seats. It gets thicker glass for better sound insulation, providing a more comfortable ride. This comfort comes from heated leather seats, 10-way power front seats, memory settings for the seats, wheel, and mirrors, power tilt and telescopic steering, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a 6-CD player, remote entry, trip computer, voice-activated navigation system, a sunroof, satellite radio, Bluetooth capability, three power outlets, intermittent front and rear wipers, and heated retractable mirrors. The W12 upgrades from the L by offering remote start, power rear sunshades, a DVD player with remote control, and a Bose audio system. Leather, wood, and aluminum accents decorate the doors, dash, wheel, and shifter. Options add adaptive cruise control, 20-inch wheels, upgraded leather, and a solar-powered fan to keep the car cool while parked. A W12-only option is a small refrigerator in the trunk.