Audi A8

I went from a manual v8 Audi S4 into this and it has been the most beautiful and reliable Audi to own and drive. I have only had a few little niggles over the journey. I have two car seats in the back and the electric blinds on the side and rear are a god send for any passenger but especially a sleeping baby. In sport mode with manual shifting and dynamic steering, suspension and differential set, it is a beast and has all the exhilaration of the S4. The depreciation is a killer but that makes these cars such an incredible buy now.

I'd owned an Audi A3 and A4 without issue. Decided to buy this A8 a few years ago and regretted it within three weeks. It spent more time in the dealership over 12 months than on the road. I ended up with close to $25,000 worth of electronic, engine and suspension bills. Still needed $15k worth to fix more engine issues. Sold it weeks later for 30% less than what I paid. Not good for a car that was 5 years old. The Auto Audi/VW dealership in Toowoomba were rude and unhelpful too. So decided to buy a Merc rather than an Audi from them. I learnt; don't buy a car out of warranty, also don't buy an Audi A8 unless you own a helicopter or a 'Go Card'.

I've had the car now nearly 13 years, it's a great car from a comfort point of view, however the build quality is just not there. There is continual problems, gearbox, suspension (as it's air suspension) and the list goes on. If you don't have an issue with constant repairs, then this is your car! I wouldn't say not to buy them, but compared to friends of mine who have Japanese cars, they have absolutely no problems. So am considering a Lexus or something similar than a German car.