Audi Audi S8 1996-2011

Audi Audi S8 1996-2011 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 1996-2011 Audi S8, including engine, transmission, differential, and quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 1996-2011 Audi S8, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission type', 'torque distribution', or 'final drive ratio'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu to jump to specific subsections.

Key Specifications

Engine Power

450 hp @ 7000 rpm

Torque

398 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Transmission Type

6-speed Tiptronic

Final Drive Ratio

3.09:1

Driveshaft Length

1,450 mm

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission configuration, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications

5.2L V10 engine producing 450 hp @ 7000 rpm
398 lb-ft of torque @ 3500 rpm
Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads
Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing
Compression ratio of 12.5:1

Transmission Details

6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission
Torque converter with lock-up clutch
Manual shift mode with steering wheel-mounted paddles
Gear ratios: 1st (4.17:1), 2nd (2.34:1), 3rd (1.52:1), 4th (1.14:1), 5th (0.87:1), 6th (0.69:1)
Final drive ratio of 3.09:1

Note: The Tiptronic transmission allows for seamless shifting between automatic and manual modes.

All-Wheel Drive System

Technical details about the Quattro all-wheel drive system and its components

Quattro System Overview

Permanent all-wheel drive with Torsen T-3 differential
Default torque distribution of 40:60 (front:rear)
Dynamic torque distribution based on driving conditions
Integrated electronic stability control (ESC) for enhanced traction
Center differential with locking capability

Differential Specifications

Front and rear open differentials with electronic locking
Torsen T-3 center differential with 2.7:1 bias ratio
Maximum torque transfer of 75% to the front or rear axle
Differential oil capacity: 1.2 liters (front), 1.5 liters (rear)
Differential oil type: SAE 75W-90 synthetic

Note: The Torsen differential provides superior traction and handling in all driving conditions.

Driveshaft and Axles

Information about the driveshaft, axles, and related components

Driveshaft Configuration

Two-piece aluminum driveshaft with center support bearing
Driveshaft diameter: 80 mm
Total length: 1,450 mm
Balanced for high-speed operation up to 250 km/h
U-joints with grease fittings for maintenance

Axle Specifications

Front and rear axles with CV joints
Axle shaft diameter: 32 mm (front), 34 mm (rear)
Axle nut torque: 200 Nm (front), 250 Nm (rear)
Axle oil capacity: 1.8 liters (front), 2.0 liters (rear)
Axle oil type: SAE 75W-90 synthetic

Note: Regular inspection of CV joints and axle boots is recommended to prevent wear and tear.

Suspension and Steering

Details about the suspension and steering systems that interact with the drivetrain

Suspension System

Front suspension: Double wishbone with air springs
Rear suspension: Multi-link with air springs
Adaptive damping system with dynamic ride control
Ride height adjustment range: 20 mm (normal), 40 mm (sport)
Suspension bushings made of high-performance rubber

Steering System

Rack-and-pinion steering with hydraulic power assist
Steering ratio: 16.5:1
Turning circle: 11.8 meters
Steering wheel diameter: 370 mm
Steering fluid type: Pentosin CHF 11S

Note: The hydraulic power steering provides precise feedback and control.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Transmission

Type: 6-speed Tiptronic automatic

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.148:1
2nd: 2.370:1
3rd: 1.556:1
4th: 1.155:1
5th: 0.859:1
6th: 0.686:1
Reverse: 3.394:1

Fluid Capacity: 9.3 liters

Fluid Type: Audi G 055 005 A2 transmission fluid

Part Number: 01V 300 048

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 150°C

Transfer Case

Type: Permanent all-wheel drive (quattro)

Torque Split: 40:60 front to rear

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters

Fluid Type: Audi G 052 145 S2 gear oil

Part Number: 0A1 409 043

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Differential

Front: Type: Open differential
Gear Ratio: 3.889:1
Fluid Capacity: 1.5 liters
Fluid Type: Audi G 052 145 S2 gear oil
Part Number: 0A1 409 043

Rear: Type: Torsen limited-slip differential
Gear Ratio: 3.889:1
Fluid Capacity: 1.5 liters
Fluid Type: Audi G 052 145 S2 gear oil
Part Number: 0A1 409 043

Driveshaft

Material: High-strength steel

Length: 1.2 meters

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 4D0 521 101

Torque Rating: 600 Nm

Axles

Front: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 4D0 498 103
Torque Rating: 450 Nm
Operational Angle: 45 degrees

Rear: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 4D0 498 104
Torque Rating: 450 Nm
Operational Angle: 45 degrees

Clutch

Type: Hydraulic multi-plate clutch

Part Number: 01V 141 033

Torque Capacity: 550 Nm

Fluid Type: DOT 4 brake fluid

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 200°C

Propeller Shaft

Material: Aluminum

Length: 1.5 meters

Diameter: 90 mm

Part Number: 4D0 521 201

Torque Rating: 700 Nm

Wheel Bearings

Front: Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 4D0 498 625
Load Rating: 1500 kg
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Rear: Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 4D0 498 626
Load Rating: 1500 kg
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Suspension

Front: Type: Double wishbone
Spring Rate: 25 N/mm
Shock ABSorber Type: Gas-filled
Part Number: 4D0 412 031

Rear: Type: Multi-link
Spring Rate: 22 N/mm
Shock ABSorber Type: Gas-filled
Part Number: 4D0 512 031

Brakes

Front: Type: Ventilated disc
Diameter: 345 mm
Thickness: 30 mm
Part Number: 4D0 615 301

Rear: Type: Ventilated disc
Diameter: 330 mm
Thickness: 22 mm
Part Number: 4D0 615 302

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10,000 miles

12 months

Check transmission fluid level
Inspect driveshaft for wear
Check differential fluid level

Ensure all fluids are at the correct level and replace if necessary

30,000 miles

36 months

Replace transmission fluid
Inspect and replace wheel bearings if necessary
Check and replace brake pads if necessary

Follow manufacturer's recommendations for fluid replacement

60,000 miles

72 months

Replace differential fluid
Inspect and replace suspension components if necessary
Check and replace brake discs if necessary

Ensure all components are within specified tolerances

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 1996-2011 Audi S8 use?

The 1996-2011 Audi S8 features a permanent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system known as quattro. This system uses a Torsen (Torque-Sensing) differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, typically with a 40:60 front-to-rear bias under normal conditions.

What is the torque split capability of the quattro system in the Audi S8?

The quattro system in the Audi S8 can dynamically adjust torque distribution between the front and rear axles, with a range of 15:85 to 70:30 depending on driving conditions. This ensures optimal traction and stability.

What type of transmission is paired with the drivetrain in the Audi S8?

The 1996-2011 Audi S8 is equipped with a 6-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission, which includes manual shift mode for enhanced driver control. The transmission is designed to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine.

What is the maximum torque capacity of the drivetrain components?

The drivetrain components, including the Torsen differential and axles, are designed to handle up to 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque, ensuring durability under high-performance conditions.

How often should the drivetrain fluids be serviced?

Audi recommends servicing the drivetrain fluids, including the differential and transmission fluids, every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Use only Audi-approved fluids to maintain system integrity.

Can the quattro system be disabled in the Audi S8?

No, the quattro system in the Audi S8 is a permanent all-wheel-drive system and cannot be disabled. It continuously monitors and adjusts torque distribution for optimal performance and safety.

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 S8 Drivetrain Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 1996-2011 Audi S8 drivetrain, including detailed procedures for maintenance and repair.

Quattro System Technical Overview

Coming Soon

In-depth technical guide explaining the operation and components of Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Audi Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Catalog of genuine Audi drivetrain components, ensuring compatibility and performance for your S8.

Drivetrain Fluid Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed specifications for Audi-approved drivetrain fluids, including transmission and differential oils.

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