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A8 (D3)

Audi A8 (D3) 2002 - Front 3/4 viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Front viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Side viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Rear 3/4 viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Rear viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Dashboard viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Interior viewAudi A8 (D3) 2002 - Detail view
Front 3/4
What makes it iconic

The second-generation aluminum flagship. The D3 refined the Space Frame concept and introduced Audi's first W12 engine.

History

The D3 A8 (2002-2010) advanced Audi's aluminum space frame technology with improved manufacturing and greater structural rigidity. It introduced LED daytime running lights that became an Audi signature across the entire range.

The D3 was the first A8 with Audi's MMI infotainment system and adaptive air suspension. Engine options ranged from the 3.0 V6 to the 6.0 W12, competing directly with the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series.

The LED lighting strip beneath the headlights created a visual signature that every Audi model eventually adopted, making the D3 one of the most influential designs in terms of brand identity.

130,000 D3 A8s were produced, consolidating Audi's position in the luxury segment and establishing the technological leadership identity that defines the brand today.

Timeline

2002Production begins
2009Production ends
2010The D3 A8 (2002-2010) advanced Audi's aluminum space frame technology...

Production & Heritage

Production Total130,000
DesignerWalter de Silva
Production Period2002-2009
Estimated Value$8K-$22K

Value estimates are editorial assessments based on recent auction results and market trends.

Technical Specifications

Engine4.2L V8 FSI
Power350 hp @ 6,800 rpm
Torque440 Nm
0-60 mph5.7 sec
Top Speed250 km/h
Transmission6-speed Tiptronic
DrivetrainAWD
Weight1,870 kg
Drag CoefficientCd 0.27
BodyAudi Space Frame (ASF) - aluminum monocoque

Engine Details

Engine CodeBVJ
Displacement4.2L (4,163 cc)
Bore x Stroke84.5 x 92.8 mm
Compression12.5
Valves32
Fuel SystemDirect injection (FSI)
Engine ManagementBosch MED 9.1.1

Performance

0-100 km/h6.1 sec
0-60 mph5.7 sec
Top Speed250 km/h
Fuel Economy10.9 l/100km combined
Weight-to-Power5.3 kg/hp

Dimensions

Length5,062 mm
Width1,894 mm
Height1,444 mm
Wheelbase2,944 mm

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionIndependent multi-link with air springs (adaptive air suspension)
Rear SuspensionIndependent trapezoidal-link with air springs (adaptive air suspension)
Front BrakesVentilated discs 360mm
Rear BrakesVentilated discs 330mm
SteeringServotronic speed-sensitive power steering, rack and pinion
Tires235/55 R17
Wheels8J x 17
Stability SystemsESP, ABS, EBD, ASR, EDL

Drivetrain

Gear RatiosZF 6HP26 6-speed Tiptronic automatic
Final Drive3.324

Capacity

Fuel Tank90 L
Trunk Volume500 L
Doors4
Seats5

Tags

Designed by Walter de Silva

From the 2000s

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