How many cylinders does the A8 W12 have?

[DelMorgan]

a8w12 is a twelve-cylinder engine, formed by the parallel connection of two V6 engines in a W configuration. The car engine is the power-generating device of a vehicle, serving as the heart of the car. It determines the vehicle's power, fuel efficiency, stability, and environmental performance. Most engines are thermal power units that convert the heat energy generated by fuel combustion into mechanical energy through changes in the working medium's state. Taking the 2021 Audi A8 as an example, its body dimensions are: length 5302mm, width 1945mm, height 1483mm, wheelbase 3128mm, and minimum ground clearance 123mm.

[KylieMarie]

When I first encountered the Audi A8 model, I was quite curious about its W12 engine. A quick search revealed it's a 12-cylinder engine. Simply put, it has 12 cylinders arranged in a W shape, which saves more space compared to conventional inline or V-type configurations. This allows it to fit into the A8's compact front end while delivering robust power output. On the highway, it drives incredibly smoothly with lightning-fast acceleration response. However, 12 cylinders mean high displacement and fuel consumption. I've heard A8 owners complain about burning over 15 liters per 100 kilometers, with costs piling up like flowing water—especially in stop-and-go city traffic where it feels like wasting gasoline. Maintenance isn't simple either; more cylinders increase risks of cooling or lubrication issues, and every repair comes with a hefty price tag. Such high-cylinder-count engines were originally reserved for luxury flagships, but now with Audi pushing electric e-tron models, they're becoming increasingly rare amid environmental trends. Overall, it represents peak performance but faces obsolescence in this era.

[DeArya]

A friend of mine has driven the Audi A8 with the W12 version, which features a unique 12-cylinder engine layout—almost like squeezing two 6-cylinder engines together—delivering astonishing smoothness and horsepower. Driving it on the highway feels effortless, with low noise levels and excellent cabin quietness, making long-distance journeys fatigue-free. However, the high cylinder count comes with downsides: the large displacement guzzles fuel aggressively, and with a smaller fuel tank, you’d need frequent refueling, costing hundreds in gas per month. For daily use, it’s relatively practical without sacrificing too much cabin space, but maintenance requires specialized technicians, and parts are expensive. From an experience standpoint, the 12-cylinder suits owners chasing top-tier comfort, though with today’s fuel prices and environmental awareness, more are shifting to economical or hybrid options. The newer A8 models are already going electric, turning the older W12 into a collector’s item—a fascinating transition.

[MacEmmanuel]

The W12 engine in the Audi A8 is indeed a 12-cylinder design, featuring a compact and efficient layout. The 12 cylinders are arranged in a W configuration, making it significantly shorter than a V12, with an output of approximately 500 horsepower, delivering robust acceleration. In luxury sedans, the W12 reduces overall size constraints, enhancing practicality. However, the high cylinder count leads to increased fuel consumption and emissions, along with complex maintenance and high costs. With current engine technology trending towards downsizing and electrification, the A8 is gradually phasing out the W12.