ABT’s Audi S8 Tune Is Perfection

• Power is up to 691-horsepower from the standard 563.

• Physical upgrades are subtle, and powerful at the same time.

• The huge luxury sedans crashes into 100 km/h in only 3.4 seconds.

Large luxury land yachts are always good fun to drive. By fun, we mean that from the driver’s perspective, the car goes on for acres in every direction and they are extremely comfortable. Typically, these big cars have lots of power to go around, much like the Audi A8. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 produces 453-horsepower. Those who want more can opt for the 563-horsepower S8. And then there are those who want it all: Enter ABT and its version of the S8.

While ABT can do way-over-the-top upgrades and modifications for customers, the gentlemen in us absolutely love the discreet yet distinctive touches that the 120-year old tuning company has built into the Audi S8. Upon request, ABT will install a carbon fibre integrated rear spoiler to complement the 20-inch ABT wheels. Customers can select the 21-inch units if they prefer. The cabin gains a bespoke ABT start-stop switch cap and an ABT gear shift cover, and done.

Now, the power. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 is upgraded with software from the ABT Engine Control Unit pushes horsepower to 691 and torque, up to 649 lb.-ft, from the standard 590. This propels the 4,600 lb car to 100 km/h in only 3.4 seconds, or faster than a current Porsche 911 Carrera. And if the car is equipped with ceramic brakes, the top speed is set at 270 km/h.

The 2020 Audi S8 retails for $129,500 ($151,600 in Canada) and is available now. The ABT configurator will allow you to build your dream S8 now as well.