Highlights

Comprehensively recommissioned after over eight years in dry storage
Completely stock and unmodified throughout
Includes rare original Audi paperwork and three keys
Private license plate included in the sale
MOT valid until July 2027

The Appeal

Not a car you see much of these days, but it should be remembered that the D2-generation Audi A8 4.2 was a landmark in automotive engineering. It was the world's first volume-production car with an aluminum space frame body, powered by a smooth 4.2-liter V8. Audi's flagship sedan was designed to compete with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, offering lightweight construction, refined performance and understated luxury that we must say has aged very gracefully indeed.

This 1997 example has an unusual backstory. Discovered abandoned in a closed storage unit after sitting unused for over eight years, it was purchased non-running and has since been comprehensively recommissioned with mechanical, electrical and cosmetic work as detailed below. The seller describes the car as completely stock with no modifications, and the interior is said to be in very good condition with all original trim. Some further attention remains: the air conditioning requires recharging, and there are minor cosmetic imperfections consistent with age,but the substantial work of bringing it back to life has been completed.

Key Information

Mileage: 103,703 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until July 2027
Technical specs: 4.2-liter V8 gasoline, four-speed automatic
Paperwork: partial service history, rare original Audi paperwork, three keys, original Audi European map, and sealed first aid kit

The Detail

Found abandoned in a closed storage unit after over eight years of non-use; purchased non-running and subsequently recommissioned
Fuel pump replaced
Alternator replaced
Tie rod ends replaced
ABS wheel sensors replaced
ABS pump and module replaced
Transmission filter and fluid service completed
Engine service completed
Wheel lock nuts replaced; original lock nut key is not available
Radio repaired
Wipers replaced
New front lower plastic trim fitted
Exterior and interior detailing carried out
The seller describes the body as approximately 80% aluminum with a couple of oxidation spots that can be addressed
Rear subframe has surface corrosion noted on the MOT, described by the seller as minor and easily treatable
Tires noted on the MOT as old but with legal tread remaining
The seller states the underside is very clean overall
The seller describes the interior as all original and in very good condition
Features include heated front and rear seats, power front seats, power steering wheel adjustment, memory seat settings, cruise control, power sunroof, double-pane glass, and dual armrests
Driver seatbelt height adjuster operates but does not move up or down
Air conditioning requires recharging
Brake lines noted on the MOT as having outer paint flaked off but functionally sound
The seller states the engine, transmission and driving experience are all good
Vehicle is completely stock with no modifications, per the seller
Private license plate included in the sale

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidder's responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalized, or heritage vehicle license plate is not included in the sale of a vehicle.