Hi guys...

Just wondering if any of you have had experience with both of these machines? They cost the same second hand where I live and I assume both are pretty much the same to run, and with the same level of reliability. The 50 hp extra in the M5 does not matter.

To me the pro's and con's are as follows...


M5
+ More stealthy (can take the rear "sticker" off and park it anywhere)
+ I don't think it would mind a track day or three
- I don't know how well it handles in snow. I have much experience with RWD cars in the snow and different models handle differently.

S8
+ The Quattro is a big plus
+ The design and interior is just 10/10 perfect IMHO
+ It has to be a perfect road trip vehicle with the huge storage space and comfort features
- Big size? But I would get used to it after a while...?? Size doesn't matter on the road, but it matters a lot on claustrophobic parking building around Europe...
- It has a lot of presence. This can be positive too, but I don't know if that's what I really want. A daily driver should have the possibility to be left outside without worries..!

I haven't owned a "racer sedan" before and don't expect these cars to handle like a Miata. The situation is that I won't have a secure garage for at least two-three years and therefore just want the best allround car. I know the M5's are epic at that point but my heart wants a S8, so my question is; How much less of a sporty car is the S8 compared to the M5?

 

I drove the S8 at the BMW dealership I have been selling cars at for almost 6 years. I also have sold and driven NUMEROUS M5's. A customer traded in the S8 for the X5M and we sold the S8 about 2 weeks ago. The car si NOWHERE near as fast at the M5. It feels like a 150 hp difference. The S8 does not handle ANYWHERE near as good. as the M5. The M5 does NOT drive ANYWHERE near as smooth as the S8. The S8 quality is outstanding and the B&O optional sound is breathtaking.

The majopr difference in the two cars to me can be explained like this. The M5 makes you want to drive and take the long way home. The S8 sems to be better as a passenger who wants to relax in a car. If you do drive the S8 it is a highway cruiser FOR SURE. I am all about stereing feel and handling and the BMW easily trumps the S8 on both aspects. The light sterring in the S8 (and all Audis now) is reason enough for me to never buy one now regardless of the other diferences. Other people like a smooth luxury type ride, light overboosted steering with excellent power and sound so the S8 appeals more to them. I am not that type of driver or person. All of this is just my expierence from driving both and hopefully it helps.

 

Allright, thank you! Any more opinions?

 

Snow - S8

Anything other than snow - M5

 

Perfect car: Audi styling/interior, BMW steering/handling, AMG engine, Porsche transmission, Lexus reliability





-just sayin

 

Not too far off my friend at all. That would be an AMAZING car.

 

Neither car should see snow.

M5 hands down better car, better looking, better value, more sporty and more reliable.

 

You forgot Ferrari/Italian passion

But on to the point, i think comparing the S8 to the M5 would be like comparing the S8 to a 7 series as they're in the same category. If you want sport followed by luxury, M5. Luxury with some sport thrown in, S8. Good luck hunting bud!

 

Thanks mate. I haven't driven either but I am pretty sure the M5 wins hands down. It's just that every time I see an A8 or S8 I fall in love with the body style. Heart's screaming A8 but head's shouting M5. This is not easy.

 

I just figured Ferrari is in a league by itself! I mean I'm naming my first son Enzo for crying outloud.......so



-just sayin

 

i like the interior of the Audi more. however being a larger car it weigh a lot more 500 pounds. The lambo v10 is tuneable. really cant go wrong w/ either unless you dont like the smg.

 

Neither car should, but Scandinavia tends to see it. If either car has to see it, I would rather be in the AWD one.

 

have you made a decision yet? My guess is you didnt buy either car.