1000 mile observations on new 2006 A8 vs old 2003 745iL.
03-23-2006, 05:25 AM
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1000 mile observations on new 2006 A8 vs old 2003 745iL.
I know it's only 1000 miles but it's better to discuss here rather than with my wife. I like the new A8 and was so disappointed in the 745 that the A6 would have been better.
PRO's so far include a beautiful light interior (sand beige, strong exterior style, strong engine and tight ride, I like the MMI except for phone it's better in all aspects than the iDrive. Very comfortable seats and good access, in and out.
CON's rear headrests in the way, general rear visability,rear brake light reflects in rear window, can't believe there are not rubber winter mats available for the SWB, Road noise seems a bit higher than the BMW, MMI with the phone, should have gone for the LWB or stunt the growth of my daughter, exterior color (Northern Blue) always dirty in Cleveland's winter, hope summer is brighter and cleaner, maybe next time I should forgo the look of the 19" and go for the 18" package, again Cleveland roads and winter driving may be the issue - scuffed one already! These are sort of minor issues that I find I unimaginable that AUDI has not addressed. I'm always astonished that the manufacturer, Audi or BMW doesn't solicite comments from new users (other than JD Powers survey that I threw away). Comments on specific issues that I am reading about in the forums.
DON'T KNOWS: The adaptive headlights, do they move like the Lexus ones or just have the turning/corner lights?
I've been running the car in standard mode, not adaptive, trying for a comfortable ride, haven't used any other setting.
DO KNOWS: Would make the same decision again and go for the A8 with minor adjustments.
PRO's so far include a beautiful light interior (sand beige, strong exterior style, strong engine and tight ride, I like the MMI except for phone it's better in all aspects than the iDrive. Very comfortable seats and good access, in and out.
CON's rear headrests in the way, general rear visability,rear brake light reflects in rear window, can't believe there are not rubber winter mats available for the SWB, Road noise seems a bit higher than the BMW, MMI with the phone, should have gone for the LWB or stunt the growth of my daughter, exterior color (Northern Blue) always dirty in Cleveland's winter, hope summer is brighter and cleaner, maybe next time I should forgo the look of the 19" and go for the 18" package, again Cleveland roads and winter driving may be the issue - scuffed one already! These are sort of minor issues that I find I unimaginable that AUDI has not addressed. I'm always astonished that the manufacturer, Audi or BMW doesn't solicite comments from new users (other than JD Powers survey that I threw away). Comments on specific issues that I am reading about in the forums.
DON'T KNOWS: The adaptive headlights, do they move like the Lexus ones or just have the turning/corner lights?
I've been running the car in standard mode, not adaptive, trying for a comfortable ride, haven't used any other setting.
DO KNOWS: Would make the same decision again and go for the A8 with minor adjustments.
03-23-2006, 08:22 AM
#2
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Glad you like your purchase decision. Re: the adaptive headlights...
...try driving on a swisting country road at night, and you WILL notice the movement of the lights and how they follow the road. Have fun!!!
03-23-2006, 09:22 AM
#4
Nice review. I wonder if the road noise is a variable based on which tire is selected.
Enjoy the car. Hopefully, you have a dealer that will enhance your ownership and not detract from it!
03-23-2006, 09:36 AM
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Re: 1000 mile observations on new 2006 A8 vs old 2003 745iL.
Your car sounds exactly like mine, Northern Blue with Cream int. Leased it from Sunnyside back in May '05 and I came over from MB. Great car, love the ride, comfort and finish. Because of my experience with the car, 3 other family members bought or have on order Audi's from the same dealer and salesman. I like the phone set up, do you have the cradle for the phone yet or maybe you're not using a bluetooth phone. The cradle is over priced but works great.
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03-23-2006, 10:04 AM
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I'm in Cleveland too. I find road noise equivalent to my S430 . I'm on Pirelli 19's.
The look of the 12 spoke is worth it. I used Fred Baker and my guy there thought the long wheel base would offer a bit less road noise and a softer ride. Nice color combo. I live close to two auto wash places and I need to clean at least once a week. I may go back to silver.
03-23-2006, 11:00 AM
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Car wash in the garage
I should install the wash equipment in my garage, that would solve the problem. Got mine at Stoddard have dealt with both dealers in the past and like the new Stoddard approach and they made it easy to custom order my car.