Ali B

The following is info posted on edmunds.com from the Detroit Auto Show on the long wheelbase version of the Audi A8. The $5,900 premium over the standard A8 gives you standard GPS navigation and ESP. I wonder if the optional 18" wheels are also becoming available on the standard A8 4.2Q.


"What is it?
2000 Audi A8 L

What's special about it?
Audi's A8 has suffered from a dearth of rear passenger space since its introduction in 1997. Compared to BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, Audi didn't cater to the huge crowd that snaps up the 740iL, XJ8 L and S-Class models for their comfortable rear seat accommodations. Taking note that 80 percent of super-luxury sedan buyers opt for stretched-wheelbase models, Audi has engineered an extended version of the aluminum-bodied A8 and plans to sell it for the low, low price of only $67,900. Stretched more than 5 inches, the A8 L epitomizes "excellence without arrogance," according to Audi of America veep Len Hunt. Rear passengers get 4 cubic feet more volume in back, with increases in leg, head and shoulder room. Electronic stability control, Quattro all-wheel drive, and a GPS navigation system are standard. Electronic stability control, Quattro all-wheel-drive, and a GPS navigation system are standard. Power is supplied by the familiar 4.2-liter V8, which makes 310 horsepower for 2000. Monster 18-inch wheels are optional."

Herr Doktor Spione

The 17-inch 5-spoke forged alloy wheel will also be on the option list. The 17 will be shod with 225/55R17 tyres while the 18 package will add 245/45VR18 performance tyres. The 18-inch wheel will be offered excelusively on the A8L. Th Rundloch 16-inch wheel from the standard A8 with 225/60R16 tyres will also be the standard kit for the long wheelbase model.

Matt Daniels

Speaking of the A8 L, I just added it's specs/features/options to the A8 Model Guide page.

SAR

And it did have the 18 inchers you spoke of. For some reason, they look even larger than that compared to other 18's I've seen.

I'm 6'5" and had mucho room in the back seat, that's after having adjusted the FRONT to fit me comfortably.