The 2007 Audi A8 sedan has always been on the cutting edge of automotive engineering. In the mid-nineties the original model was the first to be built on an all-aluminum platform, reducing weight without sacrificing structural integrity, and the 1997 model was the first vehicle to be equipped with six airbags. Designed for direct competition with similar long-wheelbase models from Mercedes-Benz, the 2007 Audi A8 maintains the tradition of combining technology, performance, and creature comforts.

The base model comes with a 350 horsepower, 4.2 liter V8 engine, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/hr in less than six seconds. It also has Audi抯 all-wheel drive system, and a 6-speed 揟iptronic?(it's their proprietary name for a system that allows the driver to manually select gears) transmission. Higher trim levels like the W12, or the powerhouse S8 come with a serious boost in engine power ?the W12 engine is 450 horsepower, and the S8 comes with a 450 hp V10 engine under its hood.

The safety features on the A8 include not only standard airbags, but also knee-protection airbags for the driver and front passenger. An anti-lock braking system, and power steering are part of the safety package as well, and there is also a LATCH child-seat system, an immobilizer anti-theft alarm system, and a remote locking system that operates over radio frequencies.

As well as being safe and secure, the interior of the A8 is extremely comfortable, with 16-way power adjustable front seats with 4-way lumbar controls, a rear seat which can hold up to three adults, and air-conditioning that has separate controls for the driver and front passenger. Other features include a Bose 12-speaker sound system, a power glass sunroof, and platinum inlays.

The 2007 Audi A8 averages 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway, and the starting MSRP is $68,000.