Own This RS 3 LMS Touring Race Car Now
The Audi RS 3 LMS was bred solely for track use and it shows in the carefully constructed design.
Built for the Track
Audi put together another incredible racing machine in the RS 3 LMS. This edition of the popular RS 3 is built strictly for racing purposes. It's currently legal for multiple racing series as is. And this particular model, slightly used, is on sale through PistonHeads for approximately $150,000 USD.
Photo: PistonHeads
Major Adjustments
Different from the road-going AWD RS 3, the LMS model utilizes a transverse engine FWD setup and a six-speed sequential gearbox. AWD platforms are illegal in endurance racing, and in an effort to keep weight down, the RS 3 team opted for a smaller, less powerful engine and FWD drivetrain.
Photo: PistonHeads
>>Join the conversation about this RS 3 LMS for sale right here in the Audi World Forum!
Less Power = More Winning?
But don't think that the downsized engine means downsized performance. The RS 3 LMS is packed with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder TSFI engine that delivers 330hp to the front wheels. It may seem counter-intuitive to the casual race fan, but opting for a smaller, lighter setup is often a recipe for success on the track. The prime example being the TOM's Supra which swapped out its 2JZ-GTE for a lighter four-cylinder Beams 3S-GTE and finally beat out the Nissan Skyline.
Photo: Piston Heads
>>Join the conversation about this RS 3 LMS for sale right here in the Audi World Forum!
Extreme Weight Savings
The end result is a racer that is far lighter than the street-legal variant. Aiding the weight savings is the plethora of aluminum, carbon fiber, magnesium, and composite parts. In fact, the heaviest portion of the car is its steel chassis and cage. Everything else is comprised of lightweight materials. In total, the RS 3 LMS shaved 1,000 lbs and weighs just 2,458 lbs - or less than a 2013 Miata Club.
Photo: Piston Heads
>>Join the conversation about this RS 3 LMS for sale right here in the Audi World Forum!
Up to Speed
That decrease in excess body fat allows the RS 3 LMS to make 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Additionally, the RS 3 LMS has a top speed of 150 mph. That may not seem like much, but rarely in competition racing are the straightaways long enough to reach top speed. The vehicle initially saw its U.S. racing debut at Virginia International Raceway in the Pirelli World Challenge TC class in 2017. It's been competing ever since.
Photo: Piston Heads
>>Join the conversation about this RS 3 LMS for sale right here in the Audi World Forum!
Keep It on the Track
As much as you may want to show it off, this racer is just that... a racer. In no way is this vehicle street legal. It was bred solely for track use. As evidence, inside you'll find an onboard fire extinguisher, air jacks for pit stops, and a lone FIA GT3-approved racing seat.
Photo: Piston Heads
>>Join the conversation about this RS 3 LMS for sale right here in the Audi World Forum!
For help with the service of your car, check out the how to section of AudiWorld.com.