The Peter F. Baumberger Collection of Motorcars
* All sold with No Reserve *
20 Aug 2010
Gstaad Palace Hotel
Switzerland
Lot No: 3
One owner from new
1997 Audi S8
Chassis no. WAUZZZ4DZDN001965
Estimate: CHF6,000 - 10,000
Footnote:
In the pantheon of super saloons it's easy to overlook the original Audi S8 - and not just because of its calm, understated lines. Back in 1996, Audi was only just starting to gain ground on its major German rivals, Mercedes and BMW. Their sporting products, created by AMG and M division respectively, were well established and respected.
The S8 wasn't Audi's first S model, but with the Quattro permanent 4wd drivetrain and a potent 360bhp, 4.2-litre V8, it set the tone for future products. The longitudinal front engine was set within an aluminium monocoque chassis that helped keep the limousine's weight down to just 1730kg. It cut through the air well, too with a drag factor of just 0.29Cd.
Audi offered a five-speed automatic option, but this car is one of a f