Audi A8 D3 Long (2002–2010): The big Audi that still whispers authority
I’ve always had a soft spot for the long-wheelbase luxury barges that don’t need to shout. The Audi A8 D3 Long is one of those cars. Quietly confident. Aluminium bones, quattro grip, and enough rear legroom to run a yoga class. I spent a few days in one recently—an immaculate W12, no less—and it reminded me why this generation still feels special. It’s the sort of luxury sedan that does the whole “first-class lounge” thing without forgetting it’s meant to cross continents at a serious lick.
History of the Audi A8 D3 Long: Space-frame swagger
The D3 generation arrived in 2002, and the Audi A8 D3 Long (the long-wheelbase version) stretched the car’s wheelbase by roughly 5 inches. Under the skin sat Audi’s aluminium Audi Space Frame—lighter than steel, stiffer than you’d think—and the sort of tech that set the tone for modern premium sedans: adaptive air suspension, MMI infotainment, and a cabin design that felt sculpted rather than stitched together. A 2005 update sharpened the styling and tech, and engines ranged from efficient diesels to the wonderfully indulgent 6.0 W12.
Driving the Audi A8 D3 Long: Like fast slippers, with manners
The first thing I noticed? Calm. Even on scruffy roads, the air suspension keeps the big A8 composed. In “Comfort” it glides; in “Dynamic” it firms up without getting choppy. I tried it on a cracked B-road I use for ride tests—no rattles, just that hushed, deep-breath composure you want in a luxury saloon. The steering’s light but precise, and quattro traction means winter weekends to the mountains are a non-event. It’s not a sports sedan in LWB form (leave that to the S8), but cover 400 miles in one and you’ll step out fresher than the coffee you left with.
Engines, trims, and the spec sweet spot
- 3.0 TDI V6: ~225–233 hp, big torque, real-world 30+ mpg if you behave.
- 4.2 TDI V8: ~322–326 hp, effortless shove, 0–60 mph in the 5s if you’re not shy.
- 4.2 FSI V8: ~335–350 hp, smoother revs, that classic V8 glide.
- 6.0 W12: ~450 hp, velvet sledgehammer, 0–60 mph ~5.1–5.3 sec. Indulgent and brilliant.
All A8 D3 Long models used a 6‑speed Tiptronic and quattro. For me, the 4.2 TDI is the thinking person’s pick: tons of torque, strong reliability if maintained, and it suits the car’s long-legged nature. The W12 is theatre—and worth it if you do low miles and want the full flagship experience.
Inside the Audi A8 D3 Long: A lounge with a stern sense of order
Slide into the A8 and it feels like architecture rather than décor—clean lines, deep armchairs, and that satisfying “Audi thunk” when you shut the door. The long-wheelbase is the one you want if you spend any time in the back. With the right options you get heated, ventilated, and even massaging rear seats—quiet enough back there to hear your kids arguing over who gets the screen.
- MMI infotainment: intuitive for its era; early cars can feel slow now.
- Optional B&O audio: still a highlight—rich, airy, and loud without shouting.
- Materials: wood, aluminium, soft leather—all ageing gracefully if cared for.
Quirks? A few. Early MMI 2G systems can be fussy with Bluetooth, and the interface feels very 2000s. The boot is big, but the rear seat pass-through isn’t always standard. And the driving position—while excellent—has that Audi trait of putting you slightly closer to the wheel than in an S-Class.
Owning an Audi A8 D3 Long: What to check before you fall for one
- Air suspension: struts and compressors can age; budget for maintenance. Ride height sensors too.
- ZF 6HP auto: change fluid and filter proactively; it rewards care with creamy shifts.
- 4.2 FSI: watch for carbon build-up and oil consumption on neglected examples.
- 4.2 TDI: swirl flaps/EGR issues if service history is patchy.
- W12: surprisingly robust if serviced on time; access can be tight (expect higher labor costs).
- Electrics: soft-close doors, parking brake modules, MMI control failures—rarely catastrophic, but check everything works.
Dimensions? The Audi A8 D3 Long is roughly 204 inches bumper to bumper (varies slightly by year/trim), with a wheelbase around 121 inches. Big, but it shrinks around you once moving.
Essential accessories: Dress your Audi A8 D3 Long with the right mats
I’m fussy about mats—cheap ones ruin the vibe within minutes. The A8’s interior deserves something tailored and robust. AutoWin offers model-specific sets for the Audi A8 D3 Long that fit properly and feel premium. I tried a set on a friend’s car after a wet weekend—no sliding, easy to clean, and they looked like they belonged there.
Feature highlights I’d look for
- Adaptive air suspension with drive select
- Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Heated/ventilated front and rear seats (Executive rear package if you can find it)
- Soft-close doors and powered boot
- Matrix of driver aids for the era: adaptive cruise, park sensors, night vision on later cars
- Quality mats that match your interior tones from AutoWin
Audi A8 D3 Long vs rivals of its day
| Model | Engines (notable) | 0–60 mph (approx.) | Length (in) | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A8 D3 Long | 4.2 FSI V8, 4.2 TDI V8, 6.0 W12 | 5.1–6.5 | ~204 | Quiet confidence, quattro composure |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 L | S550 V8, S600 V12 | 5.2–6.4 | ~206–207 | Plush ride, more flamboyant luxury |
| BMW 7 Series E65/E66 Li | 745Li/750Li V8, 760Li V12 | 5.3–6.3 | ~204–205 | Sportier edge, idrive learning curve |
| Jaguar XJ X350 L | V8s, incl. supercharged | 5.0–6.5 | ~205 | Light on its feet, classic charm |
Common questions about the Audi A8 D3 Long
- What’s the best engine for the Audi A8 D3 Long? For everyday use, the 4.2 TDI blends big torque and decent economy. For ultimate luxury, the W12 is the one—smooth, rare, and surprisingly quick.
- Which years are the Audi A8 D3 Long? Production ran from 2002 to 2010, with a notable refresh around 2005–2007 depending on market.
- How long is the Audi A8 D3 Long? Roughly 204 inches overall, varying slightly by model year and trim.
- Is the A8 D3 Long reliable? Yes, if maintained. Prioritize full service history, fluid changes (including gearbox), and proof of air suspension work. Avoid neglected examples—aluminium cars deserve careful repairs.
- What mpg can I expect? 3.0 TDI mid-30s mpg (UK) on a run, 4.2 TDI high-20s, 4.2 FSI mid-20s at best, W12 teens. Your right foot is the real variable.
Conclusion: Why the Audi A8 D3 Long still earns a quiet nod of respect
The Audi A8 D3 Long remains a wonderfully discreet way to travel quickly and comfortably. It nails that old-school luxury brief—unflappable on the motorway, calming in town—and adds quattro assurance when the weather turns grim. Find a well-maintained example, treat it to quality touches like properly fitted AutoWin mats, and you’ll have a premium sedan that still feels quietly modern. No chest-beating. Just class.
