Audi Audi A8 1994-2002 Drivetrain Specifications
Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 1994-2002 Audi A8 drivetrain system, including Quattro all-wheel-drive, transmission, differential, and driveshaft components.
1994-2002 Audi A8 Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 1994-2002 Audi A8. It includes detailed information about the engine, transmission, drivetrain components, and key technical points. Use this guide to understand the technical aspects of the vehicle's drivetrain system, identify specific components, and refer to key specifications for maintenance or comparison purposes.
How to Use
To find specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords related to the drivetrain, such as 'engine type' or 'transmission specs.' Results will highlight relevant sections.
Navigate through the sections by selecting from the table of contents. Each major section contains subsections with detailed technical points. Use the quick reference section for at-a-glance key specifications.
Key Specifications
Engine Options
3.7L V8, 4.2L V8
Horsepower
230-300 hp
Torque
221-295 lb-ft
Transmission
4-speed auto, 5-speed manual
Drivetrain
Quattro all-wheel drive
Available Specifications
Engine Specifications
This section details the engine types, displacements, power output, and torque specifications for the 1994-2002 Audi A8. It includes information on fuel systems and emissions standards.
Engine Specifications
This section details the engine types, displacements, power output, and torque specifications for the 1994-2002 Audi A8. It includes information on fuel systems and emissions standards.
Engine Types
- V8 engine configuration
- Available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants
- Aluminum alloy engine block and cylinder head
- Four valves per cylinder for improved performance
- Optional turbocharger for increased power output
Engine Displacement and Power
- 4.2L V8 engine: 300 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
- 4.2L V8 engine: 295 lb-ft torque @ 3,200 rpm
- Optional 3.7L V8 engine: 230 horsepower @ 5,800 rpm
- Optional 3.7L V8 engine: 221 lb-ft torque @ 3,200 rpm
Transmission Specifications
This section outlines the transmission types, gear ratios, and drivetrain configurations available for the 1994-2002 Audi A8.
Transmission Specifications
This section outlines the transmission types, gear ratios, and drivetrain configurations available for the 1994-2002 Audi A8.
Transmission Types
- 4-speed automatic transmission (standard on most models)
- Optional 5-speed manual transmission (available on select trims)
- Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift mode
- Adaptive shift programming for optimal performance
Drivetrain Configurations
- Quattro all-wheel drive system standard on all models
- Symmetric torque distribution front-to-rear
- Electronic differential lock (EDL) for improved traction
- Self-leveling suspension available on select trims
Drivetrain Components
This section provides detailed information on the drivetrain components, including the all-wheel drive system, axles, and differential.
Drivetrain Components
This section provides detailed information on the drivetrain components, including the all-wheel drive system, axles, and differential.
All-Wheel Drive System
- Quattro all-wheel drive with center differential
- Mechanical torque distribution (50:50 front-to-rear)
- Electronic torque vectoring for dynamic driving conditions
- Integrated with ABS and traction control systems
Axles and Differential
- Front and rear axles with independent suspension
- Hollow shafts for reduced weight and improved strength
- Mechanical limited-slip differential (optional)
- Final drive ratio: 3.81:1 (standard), 3.55:1 (optional)
Search Specifications
Search by specification name, value, or description
Type to search through torque specifications. Results will appear below as you type.
Component Specifications
Transmission
- Type
- 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP24)
- Gear Ratios
- 1st: 3.57:12nd: 2.20:13rd: 1.51:14th: 1.00:15th: 0.80:1Reverse: 3.36:1
- Fluid Capacity
- 9.5 liters
- Fluid Type
- ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) G 052 162 A2
- Torque Converter Stall Speed
- 2200-2500 rpm
- Shift Pressure
- 4.5-5.5 bar
Transfer Case
- Type
- Torsen T-2 center differential
- Torque Split
- 40:60 (front:rear)
- Fluid Capacity
- 1.2 liters
- Fluid Type
- Synthetic gear oil SAE 75W-90 (G 052 145 S2)
- Operating Temperature Range
- -40°C to 120°C
Differential
- Front
- Type: Open differentialGear Ratio: 3.89:1Fluid Capacity: 1.8 litersFluid Type: Synthetic gear oil SAE 75W-90 (G 052 145 S2)
- Rear
- Type: Open differentialGear Ratio: 3.89:1Fluid Capacity: 1.8 litersFluid Type: Synthetic gear oil SAE 75W-90 (G 052 145 S2)
Driveshaft
- Material
- Steel with rubber dampers
- Length
- Front: 720 mm, Rear: 680 mm
- Joint Type
- Constant velocity (CV) joints
- Maximum Operating Angle
- 22 degrees
Axles
- Front
- Type: Independent, double wishboneAxle Shaft Diameter: 32 mmCv Joint Type: Rzeppa jointMaximum Torque Capacity: 450 Nm
- Rear
- Type: Independent, double wishboneAxle Shaft Diameter: 32 mmCv Joint Type: Rzeppa jointMaximum Torque Capacity: 450 Nm
Clutch
- Type
- Hydraulic, single-plate (manual transmission models)
- Disc Diameter
- 240 mm
- Pressure Plate Load
- 3200 N
- Fluid Type
- DOT 4 brake fluid
Propeller Shaft
- Material
- Aluminum with rubber couplings
- Length
- 1200 mm
- Maximum Rpm
- 6000 rpm
- Balance Tolerance
- 10 g-cm
Mounts
- Engine Mount
- Type: HydraulicPart Number: 4D0 199 555 ATorque Spec: 40 Nm
- Transmission Mount
- Type: RubberPart Number: 4D0 399 151 BTorque Spec: 25 Nm
Operational Limits
- Maximum Torque
- 450 Nm
- Maximum Speed
- 250 km/h (electronically limited)
- Temperature Range
- -40°C to 120°C
- Fluid Pressure Range
- 2.5-6.0 bar
Diagnostics
- Fault Codes
-
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0730 - Incorrect Gear Ratio
- P1701 - Transmission Range Sensor Circuit
- Diagnostic Tool
- VAG-COM or equivalent
- Test Parameters
- Line Pressure: 4.5-5.5 barShift Time: 0.3-0.5 seconds
Service Information Service
Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system
- Inspect transmission fluid level and condition
- Check differential fluid levels
- Inspect driveshaft and CV joints for wear
- Lubricate propeller shaft couplings
Replace transmission fluid every 60000 miles or 48 months
- Replace transmission fluid and filter
- Replace differential fluids
- Inspect and replace worn mounts
- Check and adjust shift linkage
Use only Audi-approved fluids and parts
- Inspect and replace clutch components (if applicable)
- Check and replace worn CV joints
- Inspect and balance propeller shaft
- Perform full diagnostic scan
Ensure all components are within manufacturer specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What type of drivetrain does the 1994-2002 Audi A8 use?
What type of drivetrain does the 1994-2002 Audi A8 use?
The 1994-2002 Audi A8 features a quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which utilizes a Torsen (Torque-Sensing) center differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles. The default torque split is 50:50, but it can vary depending on traction conditions.
Q2 What is the gear ratio of the Audi A8's differential?
What is the gear ratio of the Audi A8's differential?
The final drive ratio for the 1994-2002 Audi A8 varies depending on the engine and transmission configuration. For example, models with the 4.2L V8 engine and automatic transmission typically have a final drive ratio of 3.89:1.
Q3 How often should the drivetrain components be serviced?
How often should the drivetrain components be serviced?
Audi recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the differential and driveshafts, every 40,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual. Regular maintenance includes checking for leaks, wear, and proper lubrication of the differential and transfer case.
Q4 Can the quattro system be disabled in the Audi A8?
Can the quattro system be disabled in the Audi A8?
No, the quattro all-wheel-drive system in the 1994-2002 Audi A8 is a permanent AWD system and cannot be disabled. The Torsen differential continuously adjusts torque distribution based on driving conditions.
Q5 What type of fluid is used in the Audi A8's differential?
What type of fluid is used in the Audi A8's differential?
The differential in the 1994-2002 Audi A8 requires synthetic gear oil with a viscosity of SAE 75W-90. Audi specifies using genuine Audi differential fluid or an equivalent that meets VW/Audi specification G 052 145 S2.
Q6 What is the maximum torque capacity of the drivetrain?
What is the maximum torque capacity of the drivetrain?
The drivetrain in the 1994-2002 Audi A8 is designed to handle up to 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque, depending on the engine variant. Exceeding this limit may cause premature wear or failure of drivetrain components.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
Audi A8 Drivetrain Service Manual
Coming SoonOfficial service manual for the 1994-2002 Audi A8 drivetrain, including detailed procedures for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
Quattro All-Wheel-Drive System Overview
Coming SoonTechnical overview of the quattro AWD system used in the 1994-2002 Audi A8, including its operation and advantages.
Differential Fluid Replacement Guide
Coming SoonStep-by-step guide for replacing the differential fluid in the 1994-2002 Audi A8, including recommended fluids and tools.
Drivetrain Component Inspection Checklist
Coming SoonComprehensive checklist for inspecting drivetrain components, including driveshafts, differential, and transfer case.
About the Author
Expert automotive knowledge and experience
'/%3E%3Cpath d='M60 30a20 20 0 1 1 0 40 20 20 0 0 1 0-40zm0 45c16.5 0 30 7.5 30 16.8V100H30v-8.2c0-9.3 13.5-16.8 30-16.8z' fill='%23404040'/%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Diagnostic
Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.
Repair
Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.
Additional Expertise
Documentation
Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.
Training
Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.
Certifications & Research
Certifications
- ASE Master Technician Certification
- Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
- Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
- Performance Tuning Expert
Research & Community
Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.
Legal Disclaimer
Important information about using this content
Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.
General Information
Warranty & Liability
The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.
We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.
Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.