The Lexus LFA is regarded as one of the best supercars ever made, yet ever since it left production at the end of 2012 after only two years and 500 units made, the automotive industry has stepped up its game with significant advancements in aerodynamics and powertrain development.
So, can it still hold its ground in a direct battle with more modern machines like the Audi R8? That is what we are about to find out in the next few minutes, as the Japanese exotic faced the Spyder version of the German supercar in a quarter-mile sprint.
Read Also: Lexus Sold Three Brand New LFAs In The U.S. In 2019
The R8 V10 Spyder seems to have the upper hand in this test, as its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter ten-cylinder engine puts out 611 HP (620 PS / 456 kW) and 428 lb-ft (580 Nm) of torque. According to Audi Sport, this translates into a nought to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration of just 3.2 seconds and a 204 mph (328 km/h) top speed.
The LFA also packs a V10, but with a smaller displacement of 4.8 liters. Co-developed with Yamaha, the engine pumps out 552 HP (560 PS / 412 kW) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. It needs 3.8 seconds to hit the 62 mph mark and will max out at 202 mph (325 km/h).
However, despite being less powerful, the Lexus is around 640 lbs (290 kg) lighter than the R8, which tips the scales at 3,900 lbs (1,770 kg). This levels the playing field somewhat and, thus, makes the outcome of this drag race far from a foregone conclusion.