_______
/ _____ \
| / | | _________
| | |_| /____ ____\
| | ___ | |
| | \ / | | _______
| \_____/ | | | / ___ \
\_________/ | | |_/ \ |
| | __| |
|_| |__ |
_ | |
| \___/ |
\_______/
Table of Contents:
1) Introduction/Updates
2) Cars
3) Performance Tests
4) Bang for the Buck
5) Legal Junk/Special Thanks
1)
Hello all. This is my first FAQ that I've submitted, so I'm sorry in
advance for the shoddy graphics (See above). This FAQ is solely designed
to advise users on the best second cars to buy in Gran Turismo 3. I've
made a list of cars ranging from just above 18K (The maximum amount of
money available to you from the start) to 60K, since you probably will
not want to save more than that amount before buying your second car. I
hope this will help everyone who wants a bit of help with their buying.
Updates
11/6/04: Formed FAQ, added list of cars, tested a few to be added in the
`Performance Tests' category. Included were Acura, Audi, BMW and a few
others.
11/7/04: Added Alfa Romeo, and finished the Chevrolet fleet.
11/8/04: Learned G-Faqs rejected my first draft. >_< Today I'm
submitting the third version. Anyways, today I added Fiat, Ford, and
finished the Honda fleet. On to the M category!
11/10/04: Tested and added the Lotus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, and Mitsubishi
fleet. G-FaQs rejected my second draft! >_< Ugh! Using Notepad instead of
Microsoft Word now, maybe that'll work.
11/11/04-11/22/04: Tested the entire Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, and Renault
fleet and will add them periodically until they are all in the system.
11/24/04: Tested Subaru, Tommy Kaira, and Toyota; added them all to the list.
Also completed section 4. FAQ is done. Hopefully G-FAQ'S will accept it!
*****************************************************************************
2) OK, on to the list of cars. There are quite a few here, so bear with
me.
| Make |
| Name | Price |
Acura:
Integra Type-R $27,480
3.2 CL Type-S $34,230
Alfa Romeo:
156 2.5 $38,910
Audi:
S4 $39,730
TT $46,580
BMW:
328ci $50,690
Chevrolet:
Camaro Z28 $22,830
Camaro SS $29,530
Corvette Grand Sport $40,010
Corvette Z06 $54,000
Fiat:
Coupe Turbo Plus $21,030
Ford:
Mustang SVT Cobra R $31,150
Honda:
CR-X del Sol SiR $18,730
Civic SiR II $18,890
Civic Type-R $19,980
Integra Type-R $25,160
Accord Euro-R $25,330
S2000 $33,800
S2000 Type-V $35,600
Lotus:
Elise 190 $58,530
Mazda:
Miata (MX-5) 1.8 RS $22,950
Miata (MX-5) LS $23,280
RX-7 Savanna Infini III $32,200
RX-7 Type RS $37,780
RX-7 Type RZ $39,980
Mercedes-Benz:
SLK230 $55,310
Mitsubishi:
FTO GP-R $21,600
Lancer Evo VII RS $25,180
Lancer Evo VI RS $25,980
Lancer Evo IV GSR $29,980
Lancer Evo VII GSR $29,980
Lancer Evo V GSR $32,480
Lancer Evo VI GSR $32,480
Lancer Evo VI GSR
T.M.E. w/o stripes $32,780
Lancer Evo VI GSR
T.M.E. w/ stripes $32,780
3000GT VR-4 Turbo $43,230
3000GT VR-4 $43,230
Nissan:
Silvia Varietta $27,980
Skyline GTS-t Type M $23,850
Skyline GT-R V-spec II $52,600
Skyline GT-R V-Spec $53,900
Skyline GT-R V-Spec $55,980
Skyline GT-R V-Spec II $57,480
Silvia K's 2000cc $20,360
Silvia K's 1800cc $18,860
240SX K's Aero $23,950
Silvia Spec-R Aero $25,600
240SX Fastback Type-X $24,980
300ZX TT 2-seater $39,900
300ZX TT 2by2 $43,980
Opel:
Speedster $38,390
Peugeot:
206 S16 $23,360
Renault:
Clio Sport V6 24V $43,400
Subaru:
Legacy B4 RSK $26,430
Impreza Sedan WRX STi
Version VI $29,290
Impreza Wagon WRX STi
Version VI $29,190
Legacy Touring
Wagon GT-B $29,330
Impreza Sports Wagon
WRX STi $29,980
Legacy Blitzen B4 $30,000
Impreza Sedan WRX STi $31,980
Impreza 22B STi Version $50,000
Tommy Kaira:
ZZ-S $56,800
Toyota:
Celica SS-II $19,700
MR-S S Edition $19,800
Lexus IS $20,600
Celica SS-II $21,360
MR2 G-Limited $23,750
Altezza RS200 $24,000
MR2 GT-S $27,130
Celica GT-Four $32,600
Supra SZ-R $34,700
Supra RZ $44,800
******************************************************************************
3) As I progress through the cars I'll add more to the list. I tested
all these cars at the Complex String track with a manual transmission,
an oil change and sport tires to make the cars a bit sportier. (And also
because these should be your main two upgrades when buying any car) I
alsoturned the ASM and TCS completely off. If the times seem a bit slower
than yours don't worry, I'm not the best driver out there, so that's where
the sorry times came from.
For every car I rate it's 0-60 times, braking ability, and
steering ability. At the end I add my own comments for each car.
All right, enough talk, let's go!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acura:
Integra Type-R
Track Time: 5:31:812
0-60: 8.9 seconds
Braking: Very solid
Steering: Smooth
Comments: This would be an excellent car if it had more punch. Excellent
brake feedback and predictable handling still stick out as a reason to
buy this car. The engine problem can easily be remedied with some engine
upgrades.
3.2 CL Type-S
Track Time: 5:29:132
0-60: 7.6 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Sluggish
Comments: Do not, I repeat, DO NOT make the same mistake I did when
buying this car. It has ample power, but the brakes are only average and
steering is slow. As I said, the V6 has ample power through 3rd gear but
just drops off after shifting into 4th; odd gear ratios just waste this
engines potential. If you have some money to dump into transmission and
weight-loss upgrades, this isn't too bad of a car.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alfa Romeo:
156 2.5
Track Time: 5:36:264
0-60: 8.5 seconds
Braking: Stable, but a bit slow
Steering: Secure
Comments: A very plain car. Braking and steering were average, but are
backed up by a stable chassis. Engine performance was decent; the 2.5 6-
cyl provides good hp/torque levels, but overall this is just a small
engine in a big (Relatively) car. If you want a `sporty' sedan as a
second car, the Accord Euro-R has better stats, plus it's nearly 15K
less.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Audi:
S4
Track Time: 5:18:681
0-60: 5.8
Braking: Very good
Steering: Average
Comments: The S4 has an ample amount of power, and it's used well with 6
gears. Brake performance is very good, and the handling isn't too bad.
You just have to get used to braking and the steering into the corner
instead of braking while entering. A good second car that would be more
attractive if it had a lower sticker cost.
TT:
Track Time: 5:28:970
0-60: 9.5
Braking: Below average
Steering: Sluggish
Comments: What can you say about the TT? It's slow, period. Sub par
brakes, sluggish handling, and a weak engine = S-L-O-W. The only reason
I can think of to buy this car is for the Tourist Trophy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BMW:
328ci
Track Time: 5:30:075
0-60: 7.1 seconds
Braking: Solid, but a bit off par
Steering: Very smooth and solid
Comments: A very nice car. The 2.8 6-cyl gives a nice dose of all around
power and torque. The steering was solid and predictable, though a bit
sluggish through very tight corners. The braking was average due to the
higher than average weight. A good car, but it's too impractical as a
second car at a steep 50K.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chevrolet:
Camaro Z28
Track Time: 5:15:486
0-60: 5.5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Average
Comments: A good car for less than 23K. Brakes responded well and the
handling was average. The real deal-maker, however, is the V-8
powerplant. It carries smoothly through the gears and has a near-
limitless amount of torque. Overall, buy this car, but buy some tires
first.
Camaro SS
Track Time: 5:10:363
0-60: 5.3 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Average
Comments: The big brother of the Z28, the SS boasts more power for 5K
more. I think it's money well spent. Acceleration is noticeably
improved. Handling and braking was much the same between the Z28 and SS.
For the extra 5K, the SS is a good buy. But for those on a budget, the
Z28 will do just fine.
Corvette Grand Sport
Track Time: 5:09:051
0-60: 5.4
Braking: Solid
Steering: Sub-par, tail-happy
Comments: The Corvette Grand Sport has an ample amount of power. If
driven carefully, it's a very rewarding car. If not, you've essentially
flushed 40K down the drain. Braking and engine performance both get A's,
but handling will net it a C. It's VERY risky. Buy at your own risk,
even if you're good with throttle control
Corvette Z06
Track Time: 4:59:925
0-60: 4.8 seconds
Braking: Solid at lower speeds, dicey at higher speeds
Steering: Very good, but oversteer is always prevalent
Comments: For a bit north of 50K you have a very potent car in your
hands. The V8 powerplant is very useful, easily netting speeds upwards
of 150 mph. Steering response was good, but beware of mashing the gas
out of any corner. (This can easily be rectified through throttle
control) Braking was excellent at lower speeds, but if you mash the
brake above 110 mph you'll have a tough time getting down to speed. All
in all a very good car if you're willing to shell out 54K for a second
car.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiat:
Coupe Turbo Plus
Track Time: 5:28:592
0-60: 7.7 seconds
Braking: Strong
Steering: Quirky
Comments: This is probably the best non-American car that can be bought
for under 25K. Strong brakes and a spirited inline 5-cyl engine (Turbo-
charged out of the box I might add) make for a fun combination. The only
downside is the odd handling. It just stiffens up when you accelerate
while turning. The best way I found to combat it was to brake early and
then coast through the turn, delicately accelerating out of the corner.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ford:
Mustang SVT Cobra R
Track Time: 5:07:004
0-60: 5.4 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Poor
Comments: Simply put, this car is a beast. The V-8 engine puts out about
350hp stock. This easily makes it the car with the most stock hp for the
money. Braking was average, but handling was just...bad. Even with the
most delicate throttle control the SVT was prepared to swing out at any
time. If you really want this car I'd suggest saving up for some racing
tires to accompany it.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Honda:
Civic del-Sol SiR
Track Time: 5:38:513
0-60: 9.0 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Good
Comments: This car really surprised me. I thought it'd do a bit better
than it did. Brakes were average and handling was spirited, but the
engine is a big letdown. However, it is cheaper than most cars out
there, so what you don't spend on the car you can invest in a useful
engine and/or transmission upgrade.
Civic SiR II
Track Time: 5:33:036
0-60: 8.7 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Good
Comments: A better alternative to the del-Sol, the SiR promises less
weight in a sportier package. Brakes were good and so was the handling.
The small 4-cyl was the only drawback, but that's easily changed by
adding on a few engine upgrades.
Civic Type-R
Track Time: 5:32:350
0-60: 8.6 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The big brother of the SiR-II boasts more power, but for the
money, you're getting practically the same car. The Type-R has more
power to carry its extra weight; brakes and handling were both good. As
with the previous Civics, the Type-R is a bit slow off the line, so I'd
recommend some engine upgrades. A decent second car, but there are
better choices out there.
Integra Type-R
Track Time: 5:24:644
0-60: 8.5 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The parent car of the Civic triplets, the Integra Type-R, has
much more muscle than it's kids. Boasting a smooth 1.8 liter 4-cyl, the
Integra Type-R easily outperforms the Civics. Braking was good and
handling was improved. The only downside of this car is the higher
sticker price compared to the Civics.
Accord Euro-R
Track Time: 5:34:863
0-60: 8.4 seconds
Braking: Solid
Steering: Jumpy, but still secure
Comments: A good deal for around 25K. Decent acceleration with a top
speed of around 160 mph makes this a very quick FF car. Steering
response was sort of twitchy, so it takes a little while to get used to.
Brake response was solid as a rock, you can trust this car to slow down
when you mash the brake.
S2000
Track Time: 5:12:073
0-60: 6.3 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The S2000 has good brakes and superb handling. Unlike the
Civics, the S2000 has a great engine, easily carrying the car up to 5th
gear. However, it seems to develop severe lag when you reach the middle
of 5th gear. It's not too bad, though. In the middle of 5th you should be
carrying around 130 mph, probably the tops you're going to hit anywhere
else with the exception of SSR11 and the Test Course. A good car for a
decent price.
S2000 Type-V
Track Time: 5:12:384
0-60: 6.2 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The S2000 Type-V is a minor upgrade from the S2000. It's extra
ability is a slight handling upgrade that assists during extremely tight
corners at lower speeds. Since there weren't too many tight corners at
the Complex String it didn't help too much. Braking and steering matched
the S2000's with near-precision.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lotus:
Elise 190
Track Time: 5:08:286
0-60: 6.1 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This is one capable car right here. At a measly 180 hp, this car
managed to outrun the entire Lancer family and nearly tracked down the mighty
Mustang SVT. Braking was good, and the steering was very good due to its light
weight. At 59K, it's far from cheap, but if this is a car you really want,
then I'd suggest saving up for it, because you won't be disappointed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mazda:
Miata (MX-5) 1.8 RS
Track Time: 5:39:722
0-60: 9.5 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Excellent
Comments: This is a nice little car with extraordinary handling, but other
than that it's unimpressive. The brakes are average, and the engine (Sizeable
for a car of this size) just doesn't deliver. The Miata LS is a much better
choice.
Miata (MX-5) LS
Track Time: 5:33:684
0-60: 7.9 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Very good, but kind of tail-happy
Comments: An excellent car for under 25K. The 4-cyl powerplant puts out
deceptively low numbers, but performance is very good due to the Miata's
low weight. You can't beat the acceleration for the price, braking was
excellent, and so was the handling with the exception of the odd
wheelspin out of tight corners. Overall the best car for under 25K.
RX-7 Infini Savanna III
Track Time: 5:38:112
0-60: 7.1 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Good
Comments: This car is pretty good; built in turbo, decent chassis, and a good
engine. It's only downfall is it's price. For 32K you can get a much better
Evo/WRX. But for the diehard RX-7 fans, this car doesn't disappoint. A decent
engine, brakes, and steering make for a good package priced a few thousand
north of where it should be.
RX-7 Type RS
Track Time: 5:01:188
0-60: 6.2 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: For 5K more you can get a car that blows the Infini Savanna RX-7
away; and for 6K more, you can get a car that will soundly beat the Mustang
SVT. Engine response is excellent, brakes and steering are very good, and the
price isn't too bad. An excellent second car.
RX-7 Type RZ
Track Time: 5:02:358
0-60: 6 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The RZ is a bit more ritzy than the RS; ultimately it's slower than
the RS, but for more money. Specs were nearly identical to the RS, with
the exception of the engine, which is a bit less powerful.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mercedes-Benz:
SLK 230 Kompressor
Track Time: 5:28:875
0-60: 7.5 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Good
Comments: The SLK is a good car to have around, if you can manage to pay the
stifling 55K price. Brakes were OK ans steering was good also. Engine response
was OK, but nothing special. This is probably the best car for the Mercedes
Benz Tournament, with the exception of the CLK 55 on the Test Course.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mitsubishi:
FTO GP-R
Track Time: 5:25:483
0-60: 8.3 seconds
Braking: Good
Stering: Very Agile
Comments: This is an excellent car for the money. Brakes were good, but the
steering is the main focus of my praise. It has just the right combination of
twitchy and stable, making it one of the easiest cars to handle. If you buy
this car you've got a 6-cyl engine, but it's too small to make too much over
120 mph. An excellent car overall.
Lancer Evo VII RS
Track Time: 5:08:943
0-60: 4.9 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The Evo VII RS is a much better car than its GSR counterpart.
Handling seemed to be much better. Other than that, this car is nearly
identical to the GSR. Being the cheapest Evo, it's also one of the best,
outdone only by the Evo VI GSR T.M.E.
Lancer Evo VI RS
Track Time: 5:11:653
0-60: 5.7 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The Evo VI RS is a decent car to have, but there are better cars out
there for the price. Acceleration, braking and steering were all good. One
small thing to point out is that this Evo is governed at 135 mph, kind of a
low speed to have. Ultimately, though, the Evo VII RS is better, and for a
more attractive price.
Lancer Evo VI GSR
Track Time: 5:14:168
0-60: 5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Average
Comments: I really thought this car would out-do the Evoe VI RS with the better
gear ratios, but I was wrong. The steering was quirky, brakes were very good,
and the engine response was excellent. If you think you can deal with the
handling, then this is your kinda car.
Lancer Evo VI GSR T.M.E. (With and without stripes, I'm not testing both of
them, the only difference is the paint job)
Track Time: 5:07:751
0-60: 5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: The Evo VI GSR T.M.E. is the best Evo, period. It got great gear
ratios, a good engine, great handling (Fixed from the regular Evo VI GSR), and
even better braking. If you're willing to spend 7K more than you would for its
closest rival, the VII RS, then you're ready for anything.
Lancer Evo VII GSR
Track Time: 5:12:832
0-60: 4.6 seconds
Braking: Decent
Steering: Below average
Comments: This is a decent car for around 30K, but it's nothing special.
Acceleration was stellar until 5th gear, when the engine just seemed to lag.
Braking was good, but steering was a whole different story. It was extremely
loose going into the corner, which caused me to slide on more than one
occasion. The car is much better suited to rally conditions instead of street
races.
Lancer Evo IV GSR
Track Time: 5:24:063
0-60: 5.3 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Average
Comments: The Evo IV is a decent second car. There are no frills here:
decent acceleration, decent braking, decent steering. If you want an
average car then this is it. As an added bonus (Although this comes on
every Evo/WRX) you get a free turbocharger.
Lancer Evo V GSR
Track Time: 5:11:551
0-60: 5.1 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Very Good
Comments: A very nice blend between the Evo VI's power and the Evo IV's
stability. Braking was very good as was the handling. The engine seemed
to have a wide output ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 rpm. However, the real
fun begins when you shift into 4th gear. You'll see what I mean ;)
3000GT VR-4
Track Time: 5:12:770
0-60: 5.1 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Good
Comments: The 3000Gt is a surprisingly good car, considering its weight. The
3.0 6-cyl is certainly no slouch when it comes to speed, rocketing the nearly
1700kg car from 0-60 mph in a mere 5.1 seconds. Steering was good considering
the weight it was pulling around. The same could be said for the brakes, which
dutifully brought the car down to a stop quickly.
3000GT VR-4 Turbo
Track Time: 5:15:258
0-60: 5.2 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The slower 3000GT twin, the VR-4 Turbo, isn't too bad of a car. But
when considering that you can buy the quicker car for the same amount of money,
it's kinda a no-brainer to opt for the better car, right? Anyways, the VR-4
Turbo has a few extra kilos to lug around, which is why performance is a bit
worse. And the extra weight is noticeable, too. Whe driving, the weight is
quite noticeable: slower acceleration, slower handling, and longer braking make
the VR-4 Turbo a bit less attractive than it's sister car, the regular VR-4.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nissan:
Silvia Varietta
Track Time: 5:39:676
0-60: 8.9 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: I was surprised with this car, I thought it'd do much better. Brake
response was good and steering was very good. If the engine was a bit better
I'd give this car a better 'grade'. Too bad this car is on the more expensive
side, because I'd suggest engine mods with the money you saved.
Skyline GTS-t Type-M
Track Time: 5:35:442
0-60: 7.5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The track time for this car is more like 5:30:***, but I messed up
in the last parts of the track. Anyways, very good brakes, good steering, and
a nice engine make this a pretty cool car. It's not TOO much money, and you
get a free built-in turbo with it, what's not to like?
Skyline GT-R VSpecII (R32)
Track Time: 5:09:845
0-60: 5.1 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Excellent
Comments: This car, while expensive, is definately worth considering as a
second car. You get a smallish 6-cyl engine with a built-in turbo (Nice!),
plus you get very good braking with superb handling, thanks to the handy 4WD.
If you're ready to pay for it, this car won't disappoint.
Skyline GT-R VSpec (R33)
Track Time: 5:06:495
0-60: 4.8 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This Skyline has more punch than the R32, and it shows. Even with a
accidental 360 the R33 came in more than 3 seconds quicker than the R32.
Braking and steering were very good, my only problem with this car was its
greater tendency to spin out compared to the R32. Still a good deal if you've
got the money. Overall my favorite Skyline: It mixes a good amount of power
with one of the best chassis' I've ever driven.
Skyline GT-R V-Spec (R34)
Track Time: 5:01:345
0-60: 4.6 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Very Good
Comments: Wow....this car nearly took down the Z06, too bad, it just needs a
bit more power. Brakes were excellent, and the handling wasn't too bad, it's
just very twitchy, which may put some people off who aren't used to that type
of handling. Engine response was excellent.
Skyline GT-R V-SpecII (R34)
Track Time: 5:06:882
0-60: 4.6 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: Even without the spin, this car wouldn't have been much better.
Brakes seemed somewhat soft compared to the V-Spec (R34), and steering was
actually worse due to its unpredictability. The engine is just about the same
as the V-Spec (R34). Out of the Skylines, I hated this one the most, it is
just too technically tough to drive, even for me.
SILVIA K's (S13, 2000cc)
Track Time: 5:34:784
0-60: 7.8 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Subpar
Comments: I really thought this car would do better than it did. Engine
response, aided by a turbo, was very good as were the brakes; but the steering
just let this car down. When it wasn't tight, it was loose; there's just no
neutral steering position. You can buy some chassis upgrades to help with the
steering, but you're better off looking elsewhere.
SILVIA K's (S13, 1800cc)
Track Time: 5:27:960
0-60: 8.2 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: This car is much better than its older sibling, the 2000cc. Steering
was improved, brakes were very good, and the engine wasn't bad considering it
is only a 1.8 liter. An excellent car for the price, giving the Miata LS a
whipping in price AND performance.
240SX K's AERO
Track Time: 5:31:285
0-60: 7.5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Poor
Comments: Blegh. I absolutely hated this car. Throttle response was good, but
wasn't anything spectacular. Brakes were good but the handling was downright
horrible. Like the SILVIA 2000cc when it wasn't irreperably loose it was
agonizingly tight. Buy at your own risk.
SILVIA SPEC R AERO
Track Time: 5:21:207
0-60: 6.8 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Twitchy
Comments: Like the 240SX K's, the SPEC R has some major steering issues. First
it won't turn, then it'll but then spin out; aggravating.... Anyways, if you
can get past the handling, this is a good car. 240hp and a 6-speed out of the
box is almost unheard of. Brakes were decent. If you want this car, I'd suggest
saving up for some chassis upgrades.
240SX Fastback Type X
Track Time: 5:24:758
0-60: 7.6 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: good
Comments: The best of the SILVIA/240SX group. It's not the fastest, but it's
most certainly the easiest to drive. Decent throttle response, great brakes,
and good handling make this an attractive buy.
300ZX (2-seater)
Track Time: 5:14:775
0-60: 6.5 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The 300Zx has an excellent powerplant backing it up, but its
drawbacks are only average brakes and handling. For the money you pay, the
RX-7s are much better.
300ZX (2-by-2)
Track Time: 5:17:637
0-60: 6.5 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Good
Comments: Wow...the extra weight realy shows in this car. Stats are basically
the same as the 300ZX (2-seater) with just a bit more weight it's lugging
around.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opel:
Speedster
Track Time: 5:16:168
0-60: 6.6 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Excellent
Comments: This is an excellent car to have, if you're willing to pay the 39K
dollar sticker price. For the money, the Speedster is better than its rival,
the Elise 190. But on the track the Elise just blows it away. Brakes were OK,
handling was excellent, and engine response was decent.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peugeot:
206 S16
Track Time: 5:44:239
0-60: 9.9 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Very Good
Comments: For all practical purposes, this car should've been lumped in with
the beginner cars. It's slow, period. Even with a very low weight, the 140hp
isn't nearly enough to help this car. Brakes were excellent and steering was
very good, but the engine just isn't willing.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Renault:
Clio Sport V6 24V
Track Time: 5:10:204
0-60: 6 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Good
Comments: This car actually surprised me. When I first saw the specs I saw a
decent V6 that could've used a lot more power. Through the first 4 gears the
engine is good, but it suffers afterwards; don't expect any high-speed runs
with this car. Braking and steering were both good, but nothing spectacular.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subaru:
Legacy B4 RSK
Track Time: 5:24:546
0-60: 5.8 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Heavy Understeer
Comments: This car really disappointed me. The engine is excellent and the
brakes do their job, but the handling of this car is just abysmal. Even
moderate corners require excessive braking to get through. If you buy this
car, I'd suggest your first upgrades to be tires and a VCD controller to
help loosen this car up.
Impreza Sedan WRX STi (Version VI)
Track Time: 5:12:017
0-60: 5.7 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This car is very good for the money. Excellent engine response is
coupled with pretty good brakes and superb handling. Probably one of the best
cars you can find for under 30,000.
Impreza Wagon WRX STi (Version VI)
Track Time: 5:09:055
0-60: 5.8 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This car actually turned out to be a bit better than its sedan twin;
I think it has something to do with the extra weight in the rear helping with
traction. Excellent car; superb engine response (Aided by a built-in turbo) is
tied in with the great brakes and handling.
Legacy Touring Wagon GT-B
Track Time: 5:22:952
0-60: 6 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: The extra weight of this car is very prevalent, especially in the
turns. Engine response was excellent, brakes were great, and handling was only
average because of its tendency to be sluggish. A good car, but the Imprezas
area better if you're looking into buying a Subaru.
Impreza Sports Wagon STi
Track Time: 5:08:459
0-60: 5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Excellent
Comments: I was REALLY surprised with this car. Tipping the scales at a hefty
1430 kg, I thought handling was going to be compromised, but I was wrong. The
300hp engine has more than enough power to haul this beast, with a solid 0-60
timeof 5 seconds to prove it. Brakes were good and handling was excellent. You
should seriously consider this car when looking around.
Legacy B4 Blitzen
Track Time: 5:17:693
0-60: 5.5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: Out of the Legacys, this one was the best. It hauls more ass than the
other two, and has better handling to boot. Excellent engine response coupled
with superb braking and handling stats make this a decent buy.
Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Track Time: 5:04:931
0-60: 4.8 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Excellent
Comments: Wow.....just, wow. This is a superb car in every way. You've got a
killer throttle response, very good brakes, and handling to die for. Granted
it's a higher price than most, but I think it's worth it. I strongly suggest
this as a second car.
Impreza 22B-STi Version
Track Time: 5:02:018
0-60: 4.7 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Excellent
Comments: Wow, this car never ceased to amaze me. A helluva engine, and great
brakes and handling to go with it make this a very attractive car. The only
downsides are 1) You're never gonna top 150 mph without a transmission upgrade
and 2) at 50K, it's a steep price to pay. If you've got the money and want it,
go and have a blast.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tommy Kaira:
ZZ-S
Track Time: 5:08:137
0-60: 6.7 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Excellent
Comments: The second best MR car out there for under 60K. Excellent steering
feedback, brakes, and a decent engine make this a pretty cool car. The only bad
thing about this car is the styling. If you've got the money (And don't want
the Elise 190), this is a good car. One word of advice though, its got a
surprising amount of oversteer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toyota:
Celica SS-II
Track Time: 5:30:529
0-60: 9.4 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: I was actually surprised by this car. Although the 0-60 time isn't
great, the engine is actually pretty decent. Brakes and handling were both
extremely good. Probably the best car you can buy for under 20K.
MR-S S-Edition
Track Time: 5:30:328
0-60: 7.7 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Excellent
Comments: This car is pretty decent for the money. You get a decent 4-cyl
engine in a light MR car along with excellent handling and good brakes. The
only trouble with cars like this is that, even with upgrading, your car just
doesn't get much quicker.
Lexus IS
Track Time: 5:41:371
0-60: 9.4 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Good
Comments: Not surprisingly, the car that has only 4 gears is also very slow.
It really is too bad. If there was more hp out of this engine and one more
gear it'd be a much better car. Brakes and handling were both good. Overall
a mediocre car worth less than you're paying for it.
Celica SS-II (ST202)
Track Time: 5:34:390
0-60: 8.7 seconds
Braking: Excellent
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This car would be so much better with a bit more powerful engine
under the hood. Brakes and handling were both great, but the engine is just
lackluster. Fortunately, what you don't spend on the car can go into very
helpful engine upgrades.
MR-2 G-Limited
Track Time: 5:30:024
0-60: 6.9 seconds
Braking: Avergae
Steering: Excellent
Comments: A pretty decent car for the money. Great engine feedback,
excellent steering, and halfway decent braking make a good deal. However, it's
sibling, the MR-2 GTS, is a better choice.
Altezza RS200
Track Time: 5:24:238
0-60: 7.7 seconds
Braking: Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This isn't TOO bad of a car if you think about it. Decent engine,
decent brakes, and great handling. Although a bit pricey, this car has the
potential to be competitive.
*** NOTE: This car is better than the Lexus IS in the Altezza Cup. ***
MR-2 GTS
Track Time: 5:13:965
0-60: 6.3 seconds
Braking: Poor
Steering: Excellent
Comments: A great engine and a great chassis make this such a great car. The
only problem is the brakes, which are pretty pathetic. If you want this car,
I'd suggest saving up for the Brake Upgrade.
Celica GT-FOUR
Track Time: 5:17:984
0-60: 6 seconds
Braking: Average
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This car is a little disppointing; I thought it'd be better. You've
got a decent engine, but it's truly underpowered. Brakes were average but
handling was very good. Overall, there are better cars out there than this.
Supra SZ-R
Track Time: 5:15:420
0-60: 7.5 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Very Good
Comments: This car actually surprised me with its smooth acceleration. Despite
only having 215 hp, the Supra's transmission makes good use of it. Brakes and
handling were great. On the downside, 35K is a lot of money to pay for a car
with stats like this.
Supra RZ
Track Time: 5:08:984
0-60: 5.9 seconds
Braking: Very Good
Steering: Poor (Very tail-happy)
Comments: I thought the RZ would be much better than the SZ-R, and to a
certain extent it is. The engine is great, but the oversteer on this car is
just overbearing. Brakes were great. IMHO, the RX-7's are better for the price
you're paying for this.
******************************************************************************
4) Performance Tests
Keep in mind that these cars are my opinion only. There are a few cars that I
picked that are actually slower, but they were easier to drive.
---Best of the entire field: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
--------Why I did: This is the most amount of car that you can get for your
money at 32K.
Honorable Mention: Mazda RX-7 Type RS
-----------------------------Other awards:------------------------------------
Evos: Mitsubishi Evo V GSR (I would've chosen the VI T.M.E., but this one is
much easier to drive than the VI T.M.E.)
Honorable Mention: Mitsubishi Evo VI T.M.E.
WRXs: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Honorable Mention: Subaru Impreza Sports Wagon WRX STi
Turbos: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Honorable Mention: Mazda RX-7 Type RS
NAs: Chevrolet Camaro SS
Honorable Mention: Corvette Z06
FFs: Honda Integra Type-R
Honorable Mention: Fiat Coupe Turbo Plus
FRs: Mazda RX-7 Type RS
Honorable Mention: Chevrolet Camaro SS
MRs: Lotus Elise 190
Honorable Mention: Tommy Kaira ZZ-S
4WDs: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Honorable Mention: Subaru Impreza Sports Wagon WRX STi
4-cyls: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Honorable Mention: Subaru Impreza Sports Wagon WRX STi
6-cyls: Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Turbo
Honorable Mention: Nissan Skyline GT-R VSpecII (R32)
8-cyls: Chevrolet Camaro SS
Honorable Mention: Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Under $20,000: Toyota Celica SS-II
Honorable Mention: Honda Civic Type-R
$20,000-$30,000: Subaru Impreza Sports Wagon WRX STi
Honorable Mention: Chevrolet Camaro SS
$30,000-$40,000: Subaru Impreza WRX STi (Sedan)
Honorable Mention: Mazda RX-7 Type RS
$40,000-$50,000: Mistubishi 3000GT VR-4 Turbo
Honorable Mention: Renault Clio Sport V6 24V
$50,000-$60,000: Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Honorable Mention: Lotus Elise 190
*****************************************************************************
5) Special Thanks/Credits/Copyrights/Trademarks
I'd like to thank the music of Rob Zombie, Metallica, Soundgarden and a
few other bands for keeping me company while typing this up. I'd like to
thank PD for making a great racing game, and for many more Gran
Turismo's!
I'd also like to thank those of you (Yes you! Don't think I can't see you...)
that read this FAQ and actually come down to read all this!
-This may be not be reproduced under any circumstances except for
-personal, private use. It may not be placed on any web site or otherwise
-distributed publicly without advance written permission.
You can use this FAQ if you'd like, but just let me know about it first.
I will most certainly let you have it, provided that you say I made it.
Also, feel free to send me any comments, tips, or to notify me if I made
spelling errors that spell-check didn't catch. E-mail me at
[email protected]
Copyright 2004 Brian Printy
-All trademarks and copyrights contained in this document are owned by
-their respective trademark and copyright holders.
