First off - Mercedes - They are releasing an S60 AMG - it uses a retuned version of Maybach's powerplant - which in current form is good for 550hp, and of course, not burdened with the weight of an AWD system - could be quicker. bits and pieces have come out of BMW - pictures of a lower riding - more agressive looking 7 series, and of course - they admit that M is developing a high output version of the 6.0L V12 - good for at least 600 naturally aspirated horsepower. Keep in mind two words: Turbo Lag.
I think that BMW and MB can keep up. If I remember right, isn't it audi who classically plays catchup? No one doubts that the 6.0 W12 biturbo A8 will be a great car, but what happens when A8 gets Phaeon's platform (heavier - it isn't aluminum space frame)? Also, can a W12 ever be as smooth as a real V12 - keep in mind that a V12 is supremely smooth because of the natural balance of the Inline 6 (v12 being 2 inline sixes), a W12 is twin V-6's hooked up together - the V6 not being nearly as smooth as an inline (lack of natural balance). It will be interesting to see whose car comes out on top? Who knows, GM is coming out with a 9.2L V16 cadillac, that could (though incredibly unlikely) beat the best of europe. I will although admit, I have always wanted to do a 4 wheel burnout, i think the RS8 may just be capable.
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Im sorry to inform you there will be no RS8 for many years so have fun waiting. The 2003 A8 will infact not be using the VW's heavier body ect, it still uses the Space Frame. Before you pass judgement call me a liar and such let me explain myself. My father is a high ranking executive for Audi, i know much about what tech is utilized in their products. Unlike the bulky boat like 7-series the new A8 will be light more responsive and less confusing to control. I have driven both and not to be bias towards t he Audi but it truly exceeds the BMW in all catagories. Ok now back to my point, if you have any questions pertaining any cars in the audi line up or need tech advice feel free to email me or Instant message me. Good Day.
Yes, we are all very happy to see A8 riding on an aluminum space frame as it should, and I do happen to know this platform (without modifications) will not support the 600hp Twin Turbo W12. Just the same I think it will be better.
Keep in mind the jaguar XJ uses aluminum intensive contruction, is lighter, and looks to be a serious contender, as well as the most direct competition to the A8 (7 series now being more like an S class).
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Hey people,I heard that it will have the same spec as the bentley cotinental gt coupe meaning around 750-800bhp and atleast 900nm of torque.I may be mistaken but I was told by an audi employee.I was also told that the next rs6 would have a 535bhp v10.
firstly, that is norwegian, and those are some great pics of the new A8 and S8. It looks as though they are saying that is an RS8 appeared, it would feature a 500hp 4.5L twin turbo V8 (huh, didn't porsche just debut one of those). They also re-iterated that it is an AMG S55 challenger.
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word I heard is that NO audi will be using the lamborghini engine, and they will continue to use in-house powerplants. I also heard RS8 was cancelled (I am not sure about that one).
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600 BHP Audi RS8 in the pipelines 
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