Audi Prices A8 Sedan and R8 Roadster V-8

Audi is pressing forward with new models at both ends of the spectrum - from the A1 minicar to A8 sedan. In performance, the R8 continues to set the standard for the brand.

The new Audi A8 was revealed last year and is going on sale currently, with the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class firmly in its sights. Befitting of those aspirations, it gets a hefty price tag to match.

Audi waited until the last minute to reveal the A8's pricing information. The standard length car is going on sale right now, and it starts at $78,050 (excluding $875 destination and dealer charges). Next month the long-wheelbase A8-L (pictured) hits showrooms, and it checks in at $84,000.

Next up is the R8 Spyder. Last year, Audi released the Spyder as a more upscale and exotic-like addition to the R8 product line.

In fact, with its V-10 engine many wondered how it was allowed to be produced, getting too close for comfort to Lamborghini and the Gallardo.

Now, the brand has decided to make available the coupe's 4.2L V-8 on the Spyder model as well. The V-8 version of the R8 Spyder will be priced a bit lower, at $127,000.

The V-8 engine also gets a 10 horsepower bump across the R8 lineup for the 2011 model year, bringing the total to 430 horsepower. 2011 model R8s go on sale toward the end of this year.