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5 Minutes
Overview: Rare Four-Door Exotic Hits the Market
If you love full-size sedans with exotic engines, this 2009 Audi S8 should be on your radar. Finished in Ibis White over an Amaretto interior, this D3-generation S8 blends luxury sedan comfort with a high-revving 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 — the same family of engine used in the era's Audi R8 and Lamborghini Gallardo. The example up for auction has logged 102,000 miles (164,000 km) and carries a clean Montana title, with a Carfax report that indicates no recorded accidents.
Condition and Known Issues
The seller, an Audi enthusiast, says he searched for months to find this model and purchased it in March 2025. He claims about 2,000 miles were added during his ownership. Visual inspection and listing photos show typical wear for a high-mileage example: visible oil seepage, corrosion on some exhaust components, aged tires, curb rash on the wheels, paint chips and scratches on multiple panels, and interior wear on seats and high-contact surfaces. The TPMS warning lamp is illuminated, indicating at least one tire or sensor issue. These are common service items on older performance sedans and should be factored into any purchase or restoration budget.
Equipment and Comfort
Standard and Optional Features
This S8 is well-equipped: 20-inch wheels, adaptive air suspension, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, power sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. It also carries Audi's Technology Package, which adds driver-assist systems such as lane assist, side assist (blind-spot monitoring), and adaptive cruise control — features that keep the D3 S8 competitive even against more modern rivals.
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Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood sits the 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. In stock trim the motor produced roughly 450 hp and 398 lb-ft (540 Nm) of torque — figures that were supercar territory a decade and a half ago. The combination of a high-revving V10, six-speed gearbox, and quattro traction gives the S8 a distinctive soundtrack and impressive real-world performance. Keep in mind, however, that these engines can be expensive to maintain if timing components, fuel system parts, or sensors require attention.
Market Positioning and Value
Originally priced north of $115,000 when new, depreciation has significantly reduced the S8's resale value. Recent market data shows average selling prices around $15,000 for this generation, with the lowest 2009 S8 sales in the last five years recorded near $12,312. This particular car is listed on Cars & Bids with an auction ending on August 18, 2025; at the time of listing the highest bid was $5,000. That low bid likely reflects the car's mileage and visible issues, but collectors often value the V10 S8 for its exotic drivetrain and four-door usability.
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How to Approach a Purchase
For buyers interested in a D3 Audi S8, factor in a pre-purchase inspection focused on the engine, oil leaks, exhaust condition, suspension (air springs and compressor), brakes, tires, and electronics (TPMS and driver assistance systems). Budget for potential maintenance or refurbishment — especially if you want a reliable, daily-driven example. For enthusiasts, the unique combination of performance, luxury, and the V10 soundtrack can justify restoration costs and make the S8 a compelling driver or weekend car.
Comparisons
Compared with contemporaries like the BMW M5 (E60) or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG of the same era, the D3 S8 stands out for its naturally aspirated V10 and quattro all-wheel drive. The BMW E60 M5 offers a similar high-revving V10 but with different driving dynamics, while the E63 AMG focuses more on straight-line torque and luxury refinement. The Audi’s strengths are its composure, AWD traction, and distinctive engine note.
Ultimately, this 2009 Audi S8 represents a rare slice of early-2000s automotive exotica inside a practical four-door package. Whether it becomes a restored show car, a weekend toy, or a project for a knowledgeable enthusiast, this S8’s V10 character is increasingly hard to find.
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