Audi D2 S8 (2002)

[mak156]

Hi all, I've been considering an older/classic car for a while and was lurking around the Mercedes W126s for a while. However, I recently came across a 2002 Audi S8 (D2) for sale not far from me and while it's not of the same classic vintage of the W126 - it's really got me thinking as I've always loved the earlier A8s. The car in question has 125k miles on the clock and has had all the major servicing done recently including a gearbox oil change. It looks like this was done previously at 84k miles as well. From what I understand the gearbox is one of the weak points on one of these so it seems that it's in good shape.

Asking price is €16k - which is rich enough for it, but if it "needs nothing" then it mightn't be too bad.

Just wondering what else I should be looking out for when considering one of these? Would I be better off going for a well spec'd A8 of the same vintage instead? My first car was an Audi A4 1.9TDI (B5) which I absolutely adored so I've no doubt I'd love another one from that era. 

Thanks as always for any help/advice!

[Steve Q]

Do all electrical items work? AC compressors can be expensive to replace if it's not working. Also if it's like the A6 of the era I wouldn't be surprised if it's hard on suspension arms. I'm assuming it's full service history? 

If xenon headlights make sure these are working as theyre expensive to change/fix

Why is the owner selling it? 

[mak156]

It's a garage sale. 2 owner car. Garage specializes in classic and performance cars so it would be typical stock for them. I haven't been to see it yet as I want to before armed with the kind of info you've given me there which is greatly appreciated! 

[Magnet]

Hello Barry and Steve,

€16K for a 125K ( low, but not low, mileage if you see what I mean) model? Since it’s being sold by a specialist then I would expect a premium price, but wondered if this was indeed near the going rate.

Take it you have checked the MOT history etc. Barry.

Kind regards,

Gareth. 

 

[Steve Q]

2 hours ago, mak156 said:

It's a garage sale. 2 owner car. Garage specializes in classic and performance cars so it would be typical stock for them. I haven't been to see it yet as I want to before armed with the kind of info you've given me there which is greatly appreciated! 

You're welcome. Definitely worth seeing if the Cambelt and water pump/timing chains have been changed 

[mak156]

19 minutes ago, Steve Q said:

You're welcome. Definitely worth seeing if the Cambelt and water pump/timing chains have been changed 

Looks like they have but will check the mileage. Of course the only unavoidable problem I have is the road tax. In Ireland it's €1800 😫

[Magnet]

Any comments on the asking price to further my experience?

Road tax €1.8K/a! Blinking heck, that sounds like a ‘gas and air moment’! 

[mak156]

It's probably rich by €3-4k but if the service history is exemplary then that would justify a bit. Ya the road tax here is ridiculous. Hence why I was sniffing around a few W126s....€56 tax for anything over 30 years old.