lash

The S8 is sportier without question, but the to appreciate the Phaeton you must see it in person and drive it. The S8 is noticably much lighter in driving and handles better. These were the main points that made me think, but otherwise the engineering, power and refinement of the Phaeton- especially compared to the outdated technology of the D2- are way above the S8. The S8 was a beautiful car but not in the same league. You're right about the badge issues- VW did not do a good job marketing the car.

ttuling

The weight amplifies the effect of every A8 suspension geometry compromise that needlessly makes softness the enemy of accurate and prompt handling, such as the roll steer. And it makes the fuel consumption such that I'd contemplate only a TDI were they here.

Tom

lash

I didn't mean to unfairly bash the S8.What I meant was that the D2's technology is at least 5yrs behind the Phaeton and D3 (some of which VW should have put in the Phaeton) and that does make a difference. As far as driveability the S8 is supreme- there's no other car I've driven that is as nimble fast and agile in this size. There's a feeling of being totally in control(which can be a problem when you need to stop faster than the car's capable of...). Driving the Phaeton on the other hand is a totally visceral experience with the extra bling factor and the turbine smoothness of the W12. Just 2 entirely different driving experiences. I really think Audi missed on the new D3 body style, most especially the new front grille. The D2 is a damn handsome car with a presence all its own- like this its like the Phaeton imo.

ex-a8drifter

had the four rings in the front, that would be sweet.