Outdoor Test: LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron
In my previous review, I only briefly tested the vehicle outdoors, and there wasn’t anything similar to compare it to. So, I promised to show you more of its outdoor capabilities in another video. Here we are now, ready to put the LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron to the test.
The Audi RS Q e-tron comes equipped with 2 L motors, but to be honest, they don’t make much difference when it comes to performance. However, the main difference lies in the drivetrain. The Audi features new wheel hubs without any gear reduction. The front wheels are driven practically directly, while the rear wheels have a single pair of gears, but it doesn’t affect the speed.
X-Treme Off-Roader: A Similar Vehicle for Comparison
Now, let’s take a look at a similar vehicle for comparison – the LEGO Technic 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader. This was the first of the new generation Control, RC Technic sets, and I have to say, I still like it a lot.
The speed of the X-Treme Off-Roader is fine by default, but the stock gearing is really optimized for speed, lacking torque. However, I’ve made a lot of videos with this set, and I can confidently say that it’s really easy to change the gearing and turn it into a surprisingly capable crawler.
Upgrade Options
Now, let’s talk about upgrade options for both vehicles. The X-Treme Off-Roader comes with 2 XL motors for the drive. With these powerful motors, we can easily swap the gears and make the vehicle slower but with higher torque. This ability to customize the gearing allows for a versatile driving experience.
On the other hand, the Audi RS Q e-tron features wheel hubs with heavy gear reduction. While it doesn’t provide the same customizable options as the X-Treme Off-Roader, it still performs admirably in its own right.
Outdoor Capabilities
When it comes to outdoor capabilities, both vehicles exceed expectations. The X-Treme Off-Roader, with its upgraded gearing, can tackle tough terrains with ease. Its crawling abilities make it a formidable off-road machine. On the other hand, the Audi RS Q e-tron, with its direct drive and gear reduction system, demonstrates impressive handling on various surfaces.
Outdoor Test: Sidewalk Performance
In order to test the performance of LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader, I decided to take them outdoors. Equipped with a 9V rechargeable battery pack each, I started with a simple test on the sidewalk.
As expected, the Audi RS Q e-tron showcased its superior speed compared to the X-Treme Off-Roader. It effortlessly glided across the sidewalk, leaving the X-Treme Off-Roader behind in a trail of dust. Intrigued, I wondered if this speed advantage would hold up when faced with rough terrain.
Outdoor Test: Gravel Challenge
To put both vehicles to the test, I moved the experiment to a gravel path. Surprisingly, both LEGO Technic models visibly slowed down on this uneven surface. However, the Audi RS Q e-tron managed to maintain its speed advantage over its competitor.
But then came the first problem – attempting to climb a hill covered in grass. The Audi struggled to conquer the challenging terrain, while the X-Treme Off-Roader put in a valiant effort before eventually succumbing to the steep incline. It made me question whether the issue stemmed from the Audi’s lack of ground clearance, its lower torque, or perhaps a combination of both.
Challenging Grass Terrain
Curiosity led me to test the vehicles’ performance on grass when they didn’t have to climb. Surprisingly, the Audi RS Q E-tron took the lead once again. Although both models were slower on the grass, the X-Treme Off-Roader managed to catch up as the grass grew taller. The reason behind this remains uncertain – whether it was solely due to the lack of ground clearance or the lower torque of the Audi, or a combination of both factors.
The Crawler Course Challenge
Now, it was time to introduce the vehicles to a more demanding challenge – my custom-built crawler course for LEGO and other RC vehicles. The course involved some climbing, and the Audi RS Q e-tron clearly struggled to handle it. Its open differentials and front structure made the climb far from easy.
Observing the vehicles navigate this challenging course, it became evident that expecting them to perform well in stock condition was unrealistic. Several factors, such as the design limitations, lack of customization options in the sets, and the demanding nature of the terrain, contributed to their subpar performance.
In , the outdoor tests showcased the strengths and weaknesses of LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader. While the Audi exhibited superior speed on various terrains, it struggled with tougher challenges, particularly on uphill climbs. On the other hand, the X-Treme Off-Roader showcased resilience and competitiveness, gradually catching up to its faster counterpart. For those seeking to enhance their experience with these LEGO Technic models, some modifications or upgrades might be necessary to fully overcome challenging terrain and obstacles.
Outdoor Test: Audi RS Q e-tron vs X-Treme Off-Roader
The LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and the 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader have one thing in common – they are both optimized for speed. However, when it comes to outdoor performance, they have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Audi RS Q e-tron: Not Built for Rough Terrain
With its smaller wheels, lack of ground clearance, and low torque, the Audi RS Q e-tron struggles to navigate rough terrain. While it can still make it up with some momentum, it’s clear that it isn’t designed for these types of challenges.
X-Treme Off-Roader: A More Versatile Option
The X-Treme Off-Roader, on the other hand, has an advantage in these outdoor conditions. It can handle rough terrain better than the Audi, but it still faces limitations due to its lack of torque and open differentials. These factors limit its performance.
Speed Optimization: Powered Up Control Era
Both vehicles are optimized for speed, given their size and weight in the Powered Up Control era. Achieving additional speed without extra power is not an easy task, raising questions about the possibility of upgrading these vehicles.
Challenges of Enhancing Speed
While it may be relatively easy to slow down the X-Treme Off-Roader and improve its climbing capability, increasing its speed poses a challenge. Doing so would lead to the vehicle stopping abruptly at even the smallest obstacles. This highlights the limitations of the X-Treme Off-Roader in terms of speed enhancement.
The Audi RS Q e-tron also presents its own challenges with its direct drive system at the front. Swapping the differentials for a slightly better ratio may bring some improvement, but it wouldn’t significantly change the overall performance. Additionally, the loss of torque at higher speeds becomes a problem.
The Key to Visible Improvement: Changing the Power Source
If a visible improvement in speed is desired, a change in the power source is necessary. One option is to use two BuWizz 3.0 Pro units. To reduce weight, the batteries can be removed while keeping the hub connected to the BuWizz units. This modification allows for an enhanced power source, resulting in better performance.
In , the outdoor test comparison between the LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and the 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader reveals their individual strengths and weaknesses. While both are optimized for speed by default, achieving higher speeds or better off-road performance requires careful modifications and considerations of the power source.
Outdoor Test Results
The LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and the 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader have undergone an outdoor test to determine their performance enhancements. By powering the motors with 12 volts instead of the standard 9 volts, a noticeable change in speed has been achieved. The increase in voltage has significantly boosted the speed of both vehicles, particularly on pavement.
Audi RS Q e-tron’s Performance
With the modifications, the Audi RS Q e-tron is now visibly faster. Its soft suspension also works remarkably well on gravel, ensuring a smooth ride. Uphill driving and grassy terrains pose no problem for this vehicle anymore. While the modifications have improved its overall performance, the limitations of the open differentials still persist. Although the Audi has become faster, it is not yet a capable crawler. Further modifications would be needed to achieve that.
X-Treme Off-Roader’s Performance
Similarly, the modifications have made the X-Treme Off-Roader visibly faster. It now tackles the course effortlessly, making climbing a breeze. However, like the Audi, it is also limited by its open differentials. Despite its increased speed and torque, it falls short of being a true crawler. Additional upgrades will be required to enhance its capabilities.
The Next Upgrade
The question at hand is what upgrade should be pursued next. Should the Audi RS Q e-tron be made even faster, or should it be transformed into a more capable crawler? Considering its Dakar truck inspirations, it would seem that more speed is the way to go. Ideas are already brewing to push the Audi’s limits even further. On the other hand, a slower pace with increased torque can be achieved by using the older hubs. The choice lies with the LEGO Technic community, as their input will determine the direction of the next upgrade for these sets.
Your Opinion Matters
I would love to hear your thoughts on this matter. What upgrade do you believe should be tested next? Your input will play a vital role in shaping the future of these LEGO Technic sets. Feel free to leave your suggestions and ideas in the comments section. Together, we can create an even more exciting and dynamic LEGO experience.
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In , both the LEGO Technic 42160 Audi RS Q e-tron and the 42099 X-Treme Off-Roader offer unique and enjoyable outdoor experiences. With the ability to customize the gearing, the X-Treme Off-Roader shines as a versatile crawler, while the Audi RS Q e-tron impresses with its direct drive and gear reduction system.
So, whether you prefer the power and flexibility of the X-Treme Off-Roader or the precision and handling of the Audi RS Q e-tron, both vehicles are sure to provide endless hours of outdoor fun.
