[V8] Making an A8 ride like a stock V8

[DasWolfen at aol.com]

In a message dated 2/18/05 11:17:19 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
robert_a_dupree at bankone.com writes:

> I saw someone ask the question about un-squishifying the A8 ride.
> Question was it a function of spring/damper, driveline, or chassis?
> I didn't see anyone respond however...
> Is there a response?
> I am quite curious myself.
> 

 Obviously its possibly..... See S8....plus various parts available for both 
cars. I think the question concerned the A8 vs the V8 in handling. The 
problems with the A8/S8 in a direct performance handling comparision are weight, 
length, wheelbase, and traction control. 

 The last point more directly concerns comparison with an automatic V8 and 
the ability for a driver who knows the trick to force center diff lock. The end 
result being that its possible to induce a very controllable oversteer 
condition in a slushbox V8.  (anyone who has tried it in a manual V8 and found out 
what happens when the center torsen suddenly shifts torque to the front knows 
why its not something you want to do.)

 The A8 by comparision has less feel in the steering, and that long heavy 
body would be a bear to control if you ever tried to force oversteer. A great 
driver could certainly do it. Its just harder than in a V8.

 Anyway thats my reasons for prefering a V8 over an A8, its simply a more fun 
and forgiving car when I want to play.

K