An Enriched Journey with the 2011 ABT AS8: Audi A8 Gets a Bavarian Reinterpretation
The Audi A8 has always been a symbol of finesse and elegance. However, this hasn't stopped ABT Sportsline, the renowned Bavarian tuner, from transforming this plush limousine into an exemplar of both luxury and sportiness - the ABT AS8. Unveiled just after the release of the new Audi A8, the AS8 is a testament to ABT's commitment to augmenting a vehicle's character without eroding its fundamental identity.
Powerful Underpinnings for a Luxury Liner
Engine performance has always been a crucial area of focus for ABT, and the AS8 is no exception. ABT chose to initially upgrade the 4.2-litre turbo diesel, an engine that ABT's General Manager, Hans-Juergen Abt, believes suits the limousine perfectly. With the ABT treatment, the AS8 sees a jump from the standard 350HP (257kW) to a substantial 385HP (283kW). Even more impressive is the torque figure - a mammoth 880Nm, up from the stock model's already robust 800Nm. This enables the AS8 to handle various driving situations with ease, offering a blend of relaxed cruising and sporty handling.
A Sophisticated Exterior Design
Externally, the ABT AS8 stands out with a blend of elegance and athleticism. The tuner added a front spoiler, side sills, rear aprons with tailpipe covers, and a three-piece rear spoiler, subtly enhancing the limousine's design with a sporty touch. The wheels, ABT's CR alloys available in 20 and 21-inch sizes, make a significant contribution to the overall aesthetic. Coated in phantom-black, these wheels add a modern classic appeal to the AS8, catching the eye without seeming ostentatious.
A Balance of Luxury and Sportiness
While ABT's tuning approach definitely injects a sense of dynamism and assertiveness into the AS8, the company made sure not to lose the essence of what makes the A8 such an admired luxury liner. The AS8 retains its elegant glide, transforming not into a racing car, but into a more confident and sporty version of its original self. In essence, the ABT AS8 caters to drivers who appreciate luxury but seek a bit more thrill and sportiness in their driving experience.
ABT AS8: A Dynamic Reinvention
ABT's reimagining of the Audi A8 into the AS8 is a fine example of respectful and thoughtful tuning. Rather than reinventing the wheel, the Bavarian company has elected to build on the A8's inherent strengths, creating a car that resonates with Audi's original intentions while offering something distinctively ABT. This balance of luxury, sportiness, and thoughtful design modifications makes the ABT AS8 an intriguing proposition for those seeking a luxury limousine with a touch of dynamism.
