5 Minutes
The Officially Gassed - OG YouTube crew recently assembled right-hand drive examples of some very different performance machines for a series of roll races, drags and timed runs on an improvised airport runway. The surprise of the day was a heavily modified green Audi RS 3 Sedan that consistently beat its pricier rivals: a Lamborghini Huracán, an Audi R8 and a McLaren 570S.
Contestants and Context
This informal showdown pits a tuned, all-wheel-drive performance sedan against three entry-level supercars. The line-up included:
- A modified Audi RS 3 Sedan (green) — the main challenger
- An Audi R8 coupe — the discontinued V10 staple
- A Lamborghini Huracán — the Huracán sibling of the R8
- A McLaren 570S — the British lightweight with rear-wheel drive
Why this matchup matters
These runs highlight real-world performance differences between a tuned hot sedan and factory-built supercars. They also demonstrate how modifications, drivetrain layout and traction systems change launch behavior in roll and standing drag races.
Vehicle Specifications (as run at the event)
Audi RS 3 Sedan (tuned)
Reported output after tuning: 770 horsepower. Drivetrain: quattro AWD. Additional upgrades included ECU tuning, likely turbo and fueling enhancements, and supporting hardware to cope with the extra power.
Lamborghini Huracán
Reported output: ~610 hp. Drivetrain: typically AWD on many Huracán variants. Positioned as the most expensive car in the group.
Audi R8
Reported output: ~640 hp. Drivetrain: available with AWD (quattro) on certain models. The R8 is now effectively discontinued across coupe and convertible ranges, but it remains a benchmark for naturally aspirated V10 performance.
McLaren 570S
Reported output: ~570 hp. Drivetrain: RWD. Lightweight chassis and superb handling, but traction off the line can be a limiting factor on low-grip surfaces.
Design and Tuning Notes
The RS 3 Sedan’s aggressive modifications transformed a compact performance saloon into a sub-supercar contender. Styling cues remain sedan-based, but the real changes are under the skin: forced-induction tuning, reinforced drivetrain components and likely upgraded cooling and exhaust systems. The Huracán and R8 retain exotic supercar proportions and naturally aggressive V10 notes, while the McLaren sticks to its carbon-fiber lightness and track-focused setup.
Performance and On-track Results
Across multiple one-on-one roll races and the decisive standing drag (the key run around the 7:30 timestamp in the video), the tuned Audi RS 3 dominated. Its AWD system and launch capability allowed the RS 3 to consistently beat the Huracán, R8 and especially the RWD McLaren, which struggled for traction off the line.
Key takeaways
- Power alone doesn’t win: traction and drivetrain layout are crucial in drag racing.
- The RS 3’s 770 hp package outpaced rival peak outputs in straight-line runs.
- The Lamborghini often secured second place, suggesting a strong power-to-weight and torque delivery despite the RS 3’s higher output.
Market Positioning and Value
Out of the group, the Huracán is the most expensive, followed by the R8 and McLaren. Even with nearly £10k of aftermarket work, the RS 3 remains the most cost-effective option for those chasing real-world straight-line performance. This event underscores the appeal of a modified performance sedan as a high-value alternative to factory supercars when quarter-mile times and usable power are the priorities.
Comparison and Conclusion
When comparing a tuned Audi RS 3 to supercars like the Huracán, R8 and McLaren 570S, consider the role of drivetrain, traction control, weight and tuning philosophy. The RS 3 proved that with the right power upgrades and AWD traction, a compact performance sedan can out-drag pricier exotic machines. For tuners and enthusiasts focused on drag races, the RS 3 is a compelling, budget-friendly platform; for purists seeking exotic design and naturally aspirated V10 sound, the Huracán and R8 remain iconic choices.
Ultimately, the runway runs showed a clear lesson: measured horsepower and intelligent drivetrain application can upset the expected hierarchy—especially in real-world launch conditions.
Source: autoevolution
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