2002 Audi S8

A few weeks ago I wrote up three rare-to-see colored S8s. If the S8 wasn’t already a bit of a special item to spot, seeing them in shades outside of the normal black or bright silver is a real treat. While I know that not all enthusiasts feel that the Audis of this generation are the most reliable or fastest cars (they’re not, I agree), the combination of the 360 horsepower V8 and that silky-smooth exterior create a really desirable package. The D2 is just right; well proportioned, a perfect stance, some great and unique properties like the Aluminum Space Frame design to keep weight down, and a luxurious and well appointed interior. The result? One heck of a well rounded packaged that is very affordable. Missing from the last roundup was one color that our reader John and I had been exchanging – the 2002-only color “Espresso Brown” – while we found two examples, both advertisements had disappeared by the time of writing. Well, today one is back with some new photos:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2002 Audi S8 on craigslist

Year: 2002
Model: S8
Engine: 4.2 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 145,000 mi
Price: $9,500

The S8 is Audi’s high-performance version of the flagship A8.

The color on this car is called espresso brown pearl and it’s really pretty/classy. There is some wear on some of the interior trim (handles, mostly) that is normal for a 12-year-old car. There are no tears or rips in the leather, and the leather, carpets, and floor mats are super-clean. This car runs great, the transmission is smooth, no major upcoming maintenance, considered to have low miles for its age. The passenger side has one dent (see pic).

Clean Title
Smogged
Registered Through April 2015
All Stock, No Modifications
Fully Loaded
Automatic/Tiptronic Transmission
Quattro All Wheel Drive AWD
Leather
Sunroof/Moonroof
Heated Front and Rear Seats
Leg Extensions
Multi-Zone Air Conditioning
Front and Rear Head Airbages
Dual Front and Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags
Xenon High Density Headlights
Fog and Rear Fog Lights
Parking Sensors
Premium Wheels
ABS (4-Wheel)
Stability Control
Traction Control
Cruise Control
Power Seats
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Dual Factory Exhaust
Huge Trunk
Premium Bose Sound System
AM/FM Stereo Cassette Deck with Two 6-Disc CD Changers: one in dash, one in trunk
Alarm System
Rare to find!!

Miles are a bit higher than average, calling into question the long-term health of the transmission; it’s a known weak spot, but many S8s have made it much farther. Factor a filter and flush into your immediate budget and start saving for a possible replacement down the line. I personally love the Espresso Brown Pearl color; I think it looks fresh and highlights the great shape of the D2. Condition outside looks quite good overall; inside, the soft-touch plastics exhibit typical Audi/VW wear from this generation, but the sport seats look quite inviting. Pricing is about spot on for the market; perhaps a touch high and you could get one cheaper, but if this is the color combination you want, don’t hold your breath – they’re very rare to come by and this package looks solid overall.

-Carter