Considering a 2005 W12 6.0
Thread Starter
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 279
Likes: 6
From: Sweden
Considering a 2005 W12 6.0
After 10 yrs and 160,000 miles I am looking at changing my 2000 4.2 for a newer A8.
One option is a 2005 A8 W12 6.0 with 55,000 miles but I can not find much on here about what to look out for or if there are any major service points or risks related to the engine/transmisson line. For example, I understand it does not have a timing belt but how about the waterpump, will that still need replacing and is that as big a job as the timing belt on my D2. Does it have any other major service points?
Is the powertrain different and does it need special attention (given the more powerful engine)
Will I loose agility in handling due to the larger and I assume heavier engine?
I've had indications that I would be better of with the 4.2ltr Diesel version which is also difficult to asses in terms of potential or typical issues.
I'd be grateful if anyone had some experiance/advice on either of these engines and willing to share.
I've attached a few pics on the W12 alternative.
One option is a 2005 A8 W12 6.0 with 55,000 miles but I can not find much on here about what to look out for or if there are any major service points or risks related to the engine/transmisson line. For example, I understand it does not have a timing belt but how about the waterpump, will that still need replacing and is that as big a job as the timing belt on my D2. Does it have any other major service points?
Is the powertrain different and does it need special attention (given the more powerful engine)
Will I loose agility in handling due to the larger and I assume heavier engine?
I've had indications that I would be better of with the 4.2ltr Diesel version which is also difficult to asses in terms of potential or typical issues.
I'd be grateful if anyone had some experiance/advice on either of these engines and willing to share.
I've attached a few pics on the W12 alternative.
AudiWorld Super User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 4,918
Likes: 7
From: Warwickshire
I have a 4.2tdi and I can only say it is plenty quick enough, can give very good fuel consumption and seems to have very little in the way of issues.
I am not sure about the water pump life but I will probably aim to change mine at some point early next year - it is a 2006 with just on 80,000 miles.
I will probably fit the new front suspension link kit very soon as well - just to tighten up the handling a bit.
I would not consider a W12 because of the fuel cost.
I am not sure about the water pump life but I will probably aim to change mine at some point early next year - it is a 2006 with just on 80,000 miles.
I will probably fit the new front suspension link kit very soon as well - just to tighten up the handling a bit.
I would not consider a W12 because of the fuel cost.
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
I have a w12 and it's the nicest car i've owned to date. When you're easy on the pedal you'll get 25mpg and forget being heavier as the engine is lighter than the 4.2 unit.
All the extras you get completely outweigh any of the drawbacks, if there are any.
Come on.... you're looking at buying the top of the line A8 !! not some taxi oil burner ;op
All the extras you get completely outweigh any of the drawbacks, if there are any.
Come on.... you're looking at buying the top of the line A8 !! not some taxi oil burner ;op
AudiWorld Super User
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 6,831
Likes: 27
From: Vancouver, Canada
I do not have any of them but knowing a bit about engines I would go for Diesel (I am even considering importing one to Canada). It has considerably better millage, performance wise it is close enough. If you need 400+HP just change a chip and there they are. I am not sure about prices in Europe, but with fuel and maintenance it can come close to two for one. 
AudiWorld Super User
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 2,218
Likes: 23
From: Michigan
Looks cool but my honest opinion would be to spring for a 2007+ w12. That interior looks exactly the same as my 05 A8 4.2. I know they are near identical but for getting rid of your A8 for a w12 just doesn't seem like a huge trade. I know about the engine etc, but I say if your going to get a W12 get one that fully looks awesome. Like modestw12's for instance. Just noticed it has no B&O either, this seems like a pretty base fitted W12. This one can easily be confused as a normal a8 IMO.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
roadrunner13
A4 (B6 Platform) Discussion
16
Sep 28, 2007 02:00 PM
Bruce62
Misc. Models Discussion
4
Apr 20, 2001 04:49 PM
