(2001) AUDI S8 vs AUDI S8 (2021)

Movie stars age better than normal folk – the S8 proves movie cars do too

WOAH, IT’S THE S8 FROM THAT CAR CHASE...

Yep. It’s apparently impossible to discuss the first generation of Audi S8 – the ‘D2’ S8, model code geeks – without also referencing the film it starred in. So we’ll try, likely in vain, to avoid that trap in order to let the car speak for itself. Albeit alongside its modernday namesake, the fourth-gen, ‘D5’ S8. The S8 badge first appeared in 1996, with 20 years separating these two examples.

WITH QUITE A POWER GAP TOO, I IMAGINE

Natürlich. Both hook up V8s to all four wheels, the D2 with a 364bhp nat-asp 4.2-litre, the D5 a 563bhp twin-turbo 4.0-litre familiar from any hi-po VW Group SUV you care to name. Both are electronically limited to 155mph, but the newer car’s 3.8secs 0–62mph is little more than half the older car’s 6.6secs. Huge strides in gearbox tech can probably be thanked for at least two of those seconds.

HOW HAS THE OLD ONE AGED?

With the grace of Paul Rudd. Look at him closely and you’ll find a wrinkle or a bit of silver in his stubble, much as you’ll spot the D2’s hilariously low-res satnav or guffaw at its pale wood trim if you focus too hard on the detail. But placing yourself in its sumptuous driver’s seat you realise how similarly this pair’s interiors are laid out. The spiffing ergonomics and feelgood atmosphere of an Audi cabin date back further than you might think.

HOW DOES IT DRIVE?

Just like its modern forebear, at least in some regards. Slot the selector of its five-speed auto into Drive and you’ll pull away in the same silky smooth manner as the eight-speed D5. Both have the potential for impolite acceleration but encourage a polite way of travel. Whatever the movies tell you.

I WANT TO GO HARDER...

Do so and the older S8 handles smartly, fulfilling neither of the worn fast Audi clichés (rigid ride, much understeer) by going about its business neatly, underscored by a delightful 8cyl bassline. The nat-asp engine needs working hard for big numbers where the D5 ladles them on without thought. Though remember that the S8 was Audi’s flagship in 2001 – its most powerful and expensive car.

BUT THE S8 ISN’T TOP DOG ANYMORE?

Nope, allowing it room to soften and become more of a limo. There’s tonnes more space in the back than the D2 and while four-wheel steering lends the D5 some notable agility, it’s not trying to be a loud, lairy AMG rival. It’s as whisper quiet as an EV when you’re not pushing – with electric surely a natural next step. As welcome as its V8 vocals are, many of the S8’s smartest tricks would be equally impressive if they were provided by batteries. Though it’ll make for a hushed chase scene...