The Audi A8 (D3, 4E) facelift of 2005, specifically the 6.0 i W12 quattro Tiptronic variant, represented the pinnacle of Audi’s luxury sedan offerings during its production run from 2005 to 2007. Positioned as the flagship model within the D3/4E A8 generation, this variant showcased Audi’s engineering prowess with its unique W12 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system. It competed directly with other ultra-luxury sedans like the BMW 760i and Mercedes-Benz S600, aiming to deliver a blend of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. This model was a significant evolution of the original D3 A8, incorporating styling and technological updates to maintain its competitive edge.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8 (D3, 4E, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 i W12 (450 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.5 l/100 km (11.5 US mpg, 13.8 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 229.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 295.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75 Hp/l |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 4000-4700 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft. @ 4000-4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BHT, BSB, BTE |
| Engine displacement | 5998 cm3 (366.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | W-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.2 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt, 9.24 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 18.9 l (19.97 US qt, 16.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal, 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5062 mm (199.29 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2944 mm (115.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1619 mm (63.74 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A8 6.0 W12 is the BHT, BSB, or BTE engine code, a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated W12 engine. This engine is essentially two narrow-angle VR6 engines joined at a common crankshaft, resulting in a compact and smooth-running twelve-cylinder configuration. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque between 4000 and 4700 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, which allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The Tiptronic transmission was known for its smooth shifts, but wasn’t as quick or sporty as some dual-clutch transmissions available in competing models.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0 W12 A8 offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its V8 or TDI siblings. The W12 engine delivered effortless acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.8 seconds. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, added a slight delay in shifts compared to a manual transmission. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. However, the significant weight of the W12 engine (contributing to a curb weight of around 4321 lbs) meant that the car didn’t feel as agile or nimble as lighter A8 models. The focus was on providing a supremely comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing isolation from road imperfections and a quiet cabin.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 6.0 W12 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and multi-contour front seats with massage function. Standard technology included a navigation system, premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a rear-seat entertainment system, and extended leather trim. The W12 was generally offered with the highest level of trim available, emphasizing luxury and exclusivity.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 6.0 W12 featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, optimized for ride comfort. Ventilated disc brakes were used on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. Due to the higher weight, the W12 models often featured slightly stiffer suspension components and larger brake rotors compared to the lower-trim A8 variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics praised the A8 6.0 W12 for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, the high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy (13.8 l/100 km combined) were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the A8 4.2 V8, the W12 offered significantly more power and a more prestigious image, but at a substantial cost increase. The A8 3.0 TDI, while offering better fuel economy, lacked the W12’s effortless performance. The W12 was seen as a statement of luxury and engineering excellence, appealing to buyers who prioritized exclusivity and refinement over practicality.
Legacy
The Audi A8 6.0 W12 (D3/4E) remains a desirable vehicle among enthusiasts and collectors. While the W12 engine is known for its complexity and potential for expensive repairs, it is also regarded as a remarkably durable and smooth-running powerplant when properly maintained. The Tiptronic transmission, while not the most modern, has proven relatively reliable. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, appealing to those seeking a unique and luxurious grand touring experience. The W12 A8 represents a bold engineering statement from Audi, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and luxury.
