Alpina
B7
Audi
S8
Alpina B7 vs Audi S8: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
The Alpina B7 offers power, while the Audi S8 excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the Alpina B7 if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Audi S8 if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
B7
Overall
Owner sentiment is deeply polarized, split between immense satisfaction with the vehicle's unique character and significant apprehension regarding long-term reliability and cost of ownership. The Alpina B7 is universally praised for its exceptional blend of luxury and performance, described as offering "unparalleled comfort" and a "nuclear explosion" of power from its bespoke V8 engines. The driving experience is characterized as a "cocooned" and refined event, with a focus on high-speed stability and smooth, restrained dynamics rather than raw sportiness.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" model year or generation. Feedback is spread across the E65 (2007-2008), F01 (2013-2015), and G11 (2020+) generations, with each noted for its specific engine (supercharged N62, twin-turbo N63, refined N63TU) and associated reliability concerns.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic engine failures (turbocharger failure leading to oil contamination, head gasket leaks) requiring repairs in the $20,000-$49,000 USD range. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Chronic oil leaks from multiple engine seals (valve cover gaskets, timing chain covers, alternator brackets, valve stem seals). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠High-pressure fuel pump failure. Frequency: recurrent.
S8
Overall
Owner sentiment is strongly positive regarding the vehicle's core proposition as a high-performance luxury sedan, described as a "sleeper rocket with insane comfort" and "the best balance of comfort and performance possible." The twin-turbo 4.0L V8 (EA825) engine and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission are very frequently praised for their robust performance, smooth power delivery, and proven long-term reliability when properly maintained, with multiple reports of trouble-free operation beyond 100,000 miles, even on tuned vehicles. The interior build quality, quietness (especially with the optional dual-pane glass), and air suspension are also highlighted as exceptional. However, this enthusiasm is universally tempered by a very frequent and emphatic warning about extremely high ownership costs.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a specific model year or trim (e.g., S8 Plus) as a definitive "best version." However, there is a strong, recurrent emphasis on seeking out vehicles where the critical turbocharger oil screen recall/service action (TSB 2044640) has been completed. For the D5 generation (post-2019), units produced after late 2018 are noted to have revised engine components (rocker arms) that resolved early issues, and all models are subject to a recall for the faulty Continental BSG (Belt Starter Generator) unit, which should be verified as completed.
Known issues
- ⚠Extremely high maintenance and repair costs: Routine service, tires, and brakes are very expensive; major repairs (turbos, transmission, engine mounts) can cost $5,000-$15,000+. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Turbocharger failure due to oil screen blockage: A known defect in the D4 generation 4.0T engine where a restrictive oil screen can starve the turbos of oil, leading to catastrophic failure.
- ⚠Faulty Belt Starter Generator (BSG): Affects D5 generation models (and other Audis) as part of "Emissions Service Action 27BQ"; the unit can fail without warning around 40,000 miles. Replacement is covered by recall. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Audi S8 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Alpina B7, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Alpina B7 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Alpina B7 or the Audi S8?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Alpina B7 and the Audi S8. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Alpina B7 or the Audi S8?
The Audi S8 seats more passengers than the Alpina B7 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Alpina B7 is classed as a Sedan, the Audi S8 as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Alpina B7 or the Audi S8?
The Audi S8 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 10 L/100km combined versus 11.1 L/100km for the Alpina B7, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Alpina B7 or the Audi S8?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.