LCR v S3 Opinions

[Par]

I previously had a Platinum 04 LCR which I had to sell in 2005 when made redundant and new job meant travelling 100 miles a day. I now have a new job closer to home and have just sold my Fabia VRS as I dont need a diesel any more.

I will be looking to buy another car in the coming months but cant quite make up my mind what, the LCR is definately on the list as it was one of the best cars I have ever owned however I have always liked the Audi S3. I know they share a lot of common parts but looking for some real feedback from people who have driven both - is there much in it? Not interested in dual carriageway racing stories but how the 2 cars compare to drive. I have heard the Quattro can feel a little numb but is it worth it for the extra traction?

Thanks in advance for any responses.

 

[Icecavern]

I drove an S3 ( as I was dead set on getting one ) when I did the same as you LCR -> Mk4 Ibiza TDI -> LCR.

I found the S3 pretty dull to drive so ended up with another R.

 

[RikH]

i just still find the residual values of the s3s criminal
can pay 12k+ for a car with 80k+ miles

LCR for me

 

[Feel]

Also, to me, the old S3 suddenly looks dated, and the interiors (leather) always seem a bit over-worn. S4's are the same.

Be a good base for a bigger turbo though

 

[Mike Green]

Take an S3 out for a test drive - then you can compare to the LCR. If I had an LCR before I would be tempted to go for the audi just for something a bit different.

Having said that if you can for the same price pick up a newer LCR with half the miles then that has got to be tempting!!

 

[Ruddmeister]

Agreed with the comments on the S3.......a TT has all the advantages and still looks pretty good

 

[Ninja]

im in the same situation.. Im gonna be getting an LCR i think as you get more for your money.. I think they look a lot nicer too!

 

[Skorchio]

I agree with all comment. I did see and orange S3 that was well looked after and i have to say i was stunned by its good looks.

LCR for me tho to Much better

 

[Deleted member 7729]

Considered an R32? If you get one it'd have to be a late S3 03/53 as they have the face lift and still look v nice. I'm wanting the mk4 r32 next, but house is coming

 

[vinylrichy]

id have an LCR over an s3 just because you dont see that many LCR's about - but if i had the choise of an R32 and an LCR .......

 

[vinylrichy]

id have an LCR over an s3 just because you dont see that many LCR's about - but if i had the choise of an R32 and an LCR .......

im having my very own dibate with myself here Look at "STOCKY"s LC mk 2 with the BBS alloys - that looks fooking amaizing - if i had the money, for originality id go with this - good work STOCKY!!!

 

[warren_cox]

I'd definitely go LCR over Mk1 S3 if its a straight choice between the 2. The old S3 is a nice car, and thats about it...nice.

THe LCR is far more rewarding to drive, and if you use your imagination there is not that much difference internally.

 

[spikeydoo]

Having had an LC then an S3, then an LCR - compared, i think there is very little in it. The S3 feels soft in comparison to an LCR - which, feels pretty unrefined compared to an S3. If u can live with cheaper feeling plastics & squeeks here & there you will be rewarded with a much more engaging drive with an LCR, but then again you have the more prestigious 4 rings on an S3??

Quattro does come into it's own when going round corners in the wet - & I loved those recaro leathers.... but I could get a lot newer car for a lot less pennies in an LCR....

Again IMO the LCR looks so much more special than an S3, most people will be hard pressed to spot the difference between an A3 & S3 - but as with all these things you pay your money you make your choices, all I can say is that the S3 cost me a packet to buy & I wish I'd by passed it to get to the LCR & saved a wedge in the process.

 

[Deleted member 7729]

Late S3 compare with late MK4 R32 in both the quality is up there. R32 is heavier, I'd go with the S3/R32 over the LCR as they're rarer etc. All three are good cars and I'd love to move up from my LC to anyone of those. Problem for me is a want the refinements on the next motor.

 

[Par]

Thanks for all your replies guys - really appreciate them.

Think as suggested I need to test drive an S3 to get a feel for it, the only thing is I find it very hard to resist buying a car after a good test drive as I can be a bit impulsive and I am only doing my homework at the momentbefore buying at the end of the year.

I agree with most said about the LCR being better looking (it was always one of those cars you looked back at after parking) however I have already had 2 Leons in my drive and I dont mind the S3 more subtle/bland looks and I would hope a remap and suspension tuning would make the S3 a little more rewarding to drive. I have also never owned a 4wd so that would be another novelty and would rather try 4wd with from the VAG group than an Impreza WRX Terzo STI R4 Type 22B with pink mudflaps!

The only thing that put off SEATs previously was the Sh*t dealership service I had before but as I wouldnt be buying a new car this time probably not an issue, whether I go for an LCR or S3 I will probably use STAR as they are only a few miles away.

Any futher views are welcome.

 

[Deleted member 7729]

Both s3 and R32 will be out of standard warranty these days and I'd be taking them to a VAG specialist for servicing etc. In my case JKM.