Thanx for the replies guys, I'm appreciative of the honesty. I have done some research into AWD versus 4wd, and the differences between all the AWD models. From what I gather the Audi system is one of the best engineered, but the only caveat is that it has a 50/50 split, which means less of a rear wheel drive car feel. The MB is 35/65. One advantage is that the slight understeer characteristic of the A8's is corrected with the 50/50 split.

I will probably go with a A8 for my New England Winters, and of course my SL for the spring and summer!

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2007 Corvette Convertible Torch Red
1996 MBz SL500
2008 Harley Davidson Night Rod Special