What are the differences between Audi S8 and RS8?
2 Answers
Audi RS8 and S8 differ mainly in terms of appearance, configuration, interior, and other aspects. Here are the differences between Audi RS8 and S8: Different appearance: Both Audi RS8 and S8 feature carbon fiber materials for components like side mirrors, but the RS8 has a lower and more purely sporty stance compared to the S8. Large brake calipers, big wheels, and ubiquitous RS badges highlight the car's identity. Different interior: Inside, the RS8 prototype is more sporty than the S8. Almost all visible hard materials are wrapped in carbon fiber, including the entire gear shift area. The steering wheel is a flat-bottomed design with Alcantara at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. The RS8 prototype also eliminates the MMI control system, replacing it with a Lamborghini-style start button, significantly enhancing both sportiness and prestige. The signature pop-up central screen is also removed, with all display functions handled by the Audi Virtual Cockpit. Additionally, all stitching in the car is changed to orange-yellow, matching the start button color, further boosting the sporty and aggressive feel. Different component materials: The RS8 prototype uses extensive carbon fiber kits, including a unique two-tiered front grille with a fully hollowed-out upper section, giving it a distinctive look.
As an Audi enthusiast, I'm happy to share: The Audi S8 is the high-performance version of the A8 flagship sedan, equipped with a powerful V8 twin-turbo engine producing around 600 horsepower. It offers both luxurious comfort and a sense of speed, making it suitable for daily city driving or highway cruising. The RS8, however, doesn't actually exist in Audi's product lineup; the RS series, like the RS7, are the true performance beasts, with horsepower exceeding 650, stiffer suspension, and more aggressive exhaust systems, designed specifically for track enthusiasts. The difference lies in the fact that the S8 maintains a gentlemanly demeanor even with its enhanced power, while the RS7 is more radical, sacrificing some comfort for more direct driving pleasure. Additionally, the RS7 has a more flamboyant appearance, featuring more aerodynamic components, such as wider wheels and a sportier exhaust system. In terms of price, the S8 is more affordable, while the RS7 costs significantly more. After test-driving the S8, I found it to be a great value, whereas the RS7 requires you to pay extra for every bit of performance.
