The Seat Leon Cupra 280 may have set the Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record for production front-wheel drive cars, but it isn’t the most powerful hot-hatch in VW Group’s stable. The VW Golf R and Audi S3 share that honor, with 300PS (296hp) each from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

That same engine can be found in a slightly lower state of tune in the Seat Leon Cupra 280, where it produces 280PS (276hp). While the power difference is not that big, the Golf R is all-wheel drive, while the Leon Cupra 280 is front-wheel drive. However, that means it’s 74 kg (163 lbs) lighter than the Golf, so the task of finding out which car is faster and more fun to drive is an interesting one.

Both cars tested by Auto Express’ Owen Mildenhall were fitted with the optional 6-speed DSG transmission, which offers the fastest acceleration. But which car is faster?

Well, it’s time to place your bets because the following video will answer that question.

By Dan Mihalascu

VIDEO