Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
I'm forgetting the price difference between an LFA and a 458 Italia? Is there one?
|
At this price bracket, money doesn't really matter. The 458 is a rich man's Toyota (so to speak), much like the LFA.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
Its about the relative benefit. I've heard similar things said about the 458 though...it is quite electronic and disconnected. I still feel a vehicle is about the total package, and that includes the aural and visual excitement, quality of connection with the driver, performance etc.
|
Like you stated, the 458 has been repeatedly reviewed as a bit light and artificial. I don't think the LFA has been pegged that yet. So, wouldn't you be more inclined to support the Lexus?
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
Realistically speaking, performance in terms of power isn't even that important -- I just read that someone in an X6M was caught doing 240 kmph and fined 3 grand in Quebec -- I'm not a fan of excessive power. 300 HP is plenty enough to hit 200 kmph fast...let alone 500 HP+.
|
I agree. Keep in mind the LFA is pretty reined-in on horsepower. a 4.8 liter V10 means that is has a per-cylinder displacement less than most road cars; a high-revver. I do not, for one moment, doubt that Lexus could've gone the AMG route and go for the "no replacement for displacement" mantra. It was meant as a whole package.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
As a sports car -- should engage you visually and excite you, connect with you, among other things.
|
This is where I disagree with you the most. You can digest a Panamera but not the LFA? Sure, the front end looks a little funky but Lexus had to do that to aerodynamically achieve the top speed they were looking for. Whereas the Panamera is the opposite; looks great from the front but the rear quarter view is just horrendous.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
This is my one issue with the Porsche Carerra - it looks bloody ugly for the price, the engine is in the wrong spot...but it drives like a dream! We have the panamera, its its quite nice.
|
Mid-engined is wrong? Did you mean in terms of Porsche? The Panamera's front-engined too; is that wrong?
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRox
I don't know much about the LFA -- but visually it just isn't there. Its engine though from the vids i've seen...would be a beauty to have 6MT. Alas, its a paddle shiftty.
|
6MT would be an ill decision at this level of track performance. One gripe about it is that I believe it has too many amenities; too luxurious. More than 3,200 is not a good way to make a performance statement but I guess Lexus couldn't help being themselves, given their tech-loaded road-car offerings.