The 2013 Audi S8 is powered by a 4.0-liter V-8 force-fed by not one but two turbochargers.
This engine is a little monster and produces 520 hp versus the previous model’s 450 and get this it puts out a tire scorching torque: 479 lb-ft of torque. Although the 4.0-liter V8’s block and components are shared with the S6 and S7, the turbocharging and intake systems are completely unique to the S8. Audi’s engine design briefed The Fast Lane Car on the differences, which consisted of a larger area for the turbocharger’s larger compressor and revised cooling inlets among other things.
The Fast Lane Car was also told that the engine was purpose built to run with turbochargers and was built to be one of the most compact engines in its class. Indeed, if you look at its packaging and the length of its overall layout, the new turbocharged 4.0-liter is remarkably short in length. It looks like a small V6.
Nathan recently had the chance to drive this new flagship Audi in and above the hills of Los Angeles and he came away more than impressed by the Audi’s sheer power and handling.
Check out this first drive review as Nathan spends some time behind the wheel of the new 2013 Audi S8.
