Rappy-World
2754 words
14 minutes
Gran Turismo 2: Car Selection Guide

Welcome to our ultimate Gran Turismo 2: Car Selection Guide! Whether you’re a novice driver or a seasoned racer, this guide is your key to mastering one of the most beloved racing games of all time. Dive into comprehensive tips and strategies that will help you make the best choices in every aspect of car selection. From Choosing Your First Car to identifying the Best Cars for Beginners, we’ve got you covered. Unlock hidden gems with our walkthrough on Unlocking New Cars and transform your racing machine through Upgrading and Customizing Cars. Finally, ensure you’re always one step ahead with our top Tips for Car Selection. Accelerate your journey to victory with expert advice and insider secrets. Read on and let’s hit the road to racing glory!

Choosing Your First Car#

Starting out in Gran Turismo 2 can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many cars to choose from right off the bat. The good news is that picking your first car isn’t as tough as it might seem. Let’s dive in and figure out how to make the best choice for your first ride on the road to being a Gran Turismo legend.

Budget-Friendly Picks#

First things first: money talks in Gran Turismo 2. When choosing your first car, you’ll have a limited amount of credits—usually around 10,000 to 20,000. Here are some solid budget-friendly options that give you a good balance of performance and affordability:

  • Mazda Miata (Eunos Roadster): This is a fan-favorite, and for good reason. It’s light, handles well, and it’s pretty cheap. You can usually snag one for under 18,000 credits. Plus, it’s got that convertible flair!

  • Honda Civic CR-X del Sol: Another great starter car, the del Sol offers good speed, excellent handling, and solid fuel economy. It’s a bit pricier than some options, but well worth it.

  • Toyota Trueno: Want to channel some Initial D vibes? The Trueno is your car. It’s not the fastest, but it does a great job around corners and is super fun to drive.

Used Cars Are Your Friends#

Don’t sleep on the used car lot! Most players will find their first car here. You can get more bang for your buck, and often find some hidden gems that are true classics. Keep an eye out for cars with lower mileage to avoid spending too much on repairs early on.

Prioritize Handling Over Speed#

When starting, you might be tempted to go for the fastest car you can afford. But trust us, it’s not all about speed. Good handling will help you win more races than raw speed, especially as you learn the ropes.

Look for cars with good balance and agility. These cars are easier to control, and that’s super important on the tighter tracks you’ll face at the beginning.

Upgrades: Go For It#

Once you settle on your new ride, don’t forget about upgrades. Even the best car can use a little tweaking to get it race-ready. Start with the basics:

  • Tires: Good tires can make a world of difference. They’ll give you better grip and can even make your car faster overall.
  • Engine: Boost your horsepower with an engine upgrade if you’ve got the credits to spare. This is especially useful once you’re comfortable with how your car handles.
  • Suspension: If you’ve got the cash, upgrading the suspension can really help your car’s handling, making it easier to navigate turns and rougher tracks.

Favorite Brands#

Everyone’s got their brand preferences, and sometimes the best choice is what feels right to you. Here are some brands that are typically solid choices for beginners in Gran Turismo 2:

  • Mazda: Known for their light, agile cars. A solid pick if you like great handling.
  • Honda: Offers reliable performance with good engines and decent speed.
  • Toyota: Generally provides a good balance, giving you a mixture of power and control.

Practice Makes Perfect#

Finally, remember: whatever car you pick, it’s going to take some practice to get good. Spend some time in the game’s practice mode to get a feel for how your car handles. Learn how it reacts to turns, different speeds, and the nuances of each track.


That’s the down-and-dirty guide to picking your first car in Gran Turismo 2. Keep these tips in mind, choose wisely, and you’ll be burning rubber and winning races in no time! Good luck and happy driving! 🚗💨

Best Cars for Beginners#

So, you’ve just started your journey in Gran Turismo 2 and aren’t sure which car is going to give you the best mix of speed, handling, and value? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best cars for beginners that won’t break the bank and will help you win your first few races.

Mazda Miata (MX-5)#

Why it’s great: The Mazda Miata is an absolute classic when it comes to starter cars. It has excellent handling and isn’t too powerful, making it a perfect choice for learning the ropes of Gran Turismo 2.

  • Cost: Around 10,000 Credits.
  • Performance: Balanced, with a good mix of speed and agility.
  • Upgrades: Plenty of affordable upgrades available.
  • Best For: Learning cornering techniques and balancing speed with control.

Honda Civic SiR-II (EG)#

Why it’s great: The Honda Civic SiR-II is another fantastic option. It’s affordable and reliable. Plus, it’s a front-wheel-drive car, which makes it a bit more forgiving for newcomers.

  • Cost: Roughly 12,000 Credits.
  • Performance: Solid acceleration and stability.
  • Upgrades: Extensive options for performance improvements.
  • Best For: Smooth driving experience and great for initial upgrades.

Toyota Corolla Levin GT-Apex (AE86)#

Why it’s great: Fans of drifting and anime rejoice! This car is not only iconic but also a fantastic starter vehicle. It offers a balanced performance that is perfect for learning techniques.

  • Cost: About 15,000 Credits.
  • Performance: Well-rounded with a slight edge in handling.
  • Upgrades: Many tuning options for horsepower and handling.
  • Best For: Learning the basics and having fun with drift mechanics.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT#

Why it’s great: The Mitsubishi Eclipse GT is a bit more on the powerful side but still manageable for beginners. Its all-wheel-drive system gives it excellent traction, making it easier to control.

  • Cost: 18,000 Credits or so.
  • Performance: Strong acceleration and good top speed.
  • Upgrades: Numerous mods available to boost performance.
  • Best For: A slight step up in power, suited for beginner racers looking for a challenge.

Nissan Silvia K’s (S13)#

Why it’s great: The Nissan Silvia K’s is perfect if you are looking for a rear-wheel-drive car that’s still friendly for beginners. It’s responsive and has a solid base for potential upgrades.

  • Cost: Around 14,000 Credits.
  • Performance: Excellent balance and power for its price.
  • Upgrades: Lots of customization possibilities.
  • Best For: Getting a feel for rear-wheel-drive without compromising on ease of use.

Suzuki Cappuccino#

Why it’s great: Don’t let its small size fool you. The Suzuki Cappuccino is nimble and very easy to handle, making it great for tight tracks and learning precision driving.

  • Cost: Just about 13,000 Credits.
  • Performance: Very agile with decent acceleration.
  • Upgrades: Not a powerhouse, but enough upgrades to stay competitive.
  • Best For: Beginners who want something light and sprightly.

Final Thoughts#

Remember, your starter car is just the beginning. Gran Turismo 2 offers a wide variety of cars, each with unique traits. These beginner cars are perfect for building your racing skills without overwhelming you with too much power or complicated mechanics. Try them out, see which one fits your style, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different upgrades to find the perfect balance. Happy racing! 🚗💨

Hopefully, this guide helps you pick the right car to kickstart your Gran Turismo 2 experience. Good luck and have fun!

Gran Turismo 2: Car Selection Guide#

Unlocking New Cars#

Unlocking new cars in Gran Turismo 2 can be a thrill. With over 600 cars waiting to be driven, unlocking new rides is one of the biggest joys of the game. Let’s dive into the different ways you can expand your car collection and roll out on the track in style.

Buy Them From the Dealer#

The most straightforward way to get new cars is by purchasing them from the game’s car dealers. Each manufacturer has its own dealership where you can buy brand-new vehicles. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Japanese Dealerships: Brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Subaru.
  • American Dealerships: Classic muscle from Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge.
  • European Dealerships: Sleek rides from BMW, Ferrari, and Porsche (well, sort of; RUF cars are based on Porsches).

To buy a car, simply visit a dealership in the game menu, browse the selection, and use your credits to make a purchase. Remember, it’s not just about flashy looks—pay attention to the car’s performance stats.

Winning in Races#

Another awesome way to build your garage is by winning races. Not only do most races offer credits, but many also provide cars as prizes. Here’s how to snag some shiny new vehicles without spending your hard-earned credits:

  • License Tests: Completing certain License Tests can reward you with special cars. For example, completing the B License gets you the compact and nimble Mazda Demio.
  • Event Races: Participating in events and winning gives you access to exclusive cars. For instance, winning the GT World Cup will nab you a powerful race car like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI GSR.

Special Events and Championships#

Some cars are only available by excelling in special events and championships. These races have specific requirements, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Here’s a peek at some events that can unlock cool cars:

  • Endurance Races: These long and grueling races can be exhausting, but they come with high rewards. For example, winning the Laguna Seca 200 miles endurance race grants you the stunning Toyota GT-One Race Car.
  • Rally Events: Put your off-road skills to the test in rally events to score rugged vehicles. Conquering the Pikes Peak Downhill rewards you with the legendary Pikes Peak Quattro.

Hidden Cars#

Gran Turismo 2 hides some cars in plain sight. These vehicles might not be available at first glance but can become accessible through certain actions:

  • Prize Cars List: Some players document prize cars obtained from various races and share them online. Checking these lists can guide you to races with the most coveted cars.
  • Used Car Lots: Keep an eye on the game’s used car lots. While the selection changes daily, it’s often possible to find rare and unique treasures. Perfect for getting a bargain and some classic rides.

Tips and Tricks for Unlocking Cars#

  • Save Often: Before entering a crucial race or event, save your game. This way, you can retry if you don’t win the car you want.
  • Check Performance: Make sure your current cars are up to the challenge of each race. Upgrading parts can boost your chances of winning (and unlocking more cars).
  • Diversify: Don’t stick to just one type of race. Exploring different events expands your chances of unlocking a variety of cars.

Unlocking new cars in Gran Turismo 2 is about strategy, skill, and sometimes a little patience. Follow these tips, win those races, and before you know it, you’ll have a garage full of incredible cars ready to dominate the track. Happy racing!

Upgrading and Customizing Cars#

Upgrading and customizing your car is a huge part of Gran Turismo 2. It’s all about turning your ride into a high-speed beast that’ll leave your competition eating dust. Let’s dive into how you can make your car faster, more agile, and uniquely yours.

Suspension and Brakes#

Suspension Upgrades:

  • Sports Suspension: Offers a decent balance of comfort and performance.
  • Racing Suspension: Best for high-performance needs, gives you the tuning options to tweak your car’s ride height, damper settings, and more.

Brake Upgrades:

  • Brake Balance Controller: Essential for adjusting the braking force between the front and rear wheels to improve handling.
  • Sport Brakes: Enhanced stopping power for those tighter corners and high-speed chases.
  • Racing Brakes: The ultimate in stopping power, a must-have for any serious racer.

Tires and Drivetrain#

Tire Upgrades:

  • Different tires are crucial for varying track conditions.
    • Sports Tires: Reliable and balanced for most conditions.
    • Racing Tires: Better grip for maximum performance. Comes in different compounds like soft, medium, and hard, with soft offering the best grip but quickest wear.

Drivetrain Upgrades:

  • Clutch: Upgrading to a twin-plate or triple-plate clutch can improve gear shifting speed.
  • Flywheel: Lightweight flywheels reduce rotational mass, allowing your engine to rev faster.
  • Driveshaft: Carbon driveshafts are lighter and stronger, improving acceleration.

Engine Tuning#

Engine Upgrades:

  • NA Tuning: Natural Aspirations upgrades like Intake and Exhaust components improve air flow, adding more power.
  • Turbo Kits: Add serious horsepower. Comes in stages, with Stage 1 being the smallest boost and Stage 3 delivering the most.
  • Computer Chips: Tweaking your car’s ECU can eke out extra power from the engine.

Weight Reduction#

Stages of Weight Reduction:

  • Shedding unnecessary weight improves speed and handling.
    • Stage 1: Removes some comfort features, lightens the car a bit.
    • Stage 2: Takes out more weight, including some of the interior.
    • Stage 3: Strips the car down to its essentials, massively improving performance but sacrificing comfort.

Aerodynamics#

Body Kits and Spoilers:

  • Aerodynamics play a big role in high-speed stability. Adding body kits and adjustable spoilers can increase downforce, improving handling at higher speeds.

Customization Options#

Aside from performance, you can customize the appearance of your vehicle:

  • Wheels: Change your wheels to match your style. Various sizes and designs are available, some lighter than others which can also improve performance.
  • Paint: While it’s mostly just for looks, who says you can’t race in style? Different colors can make your car stand out in the lineup.

Putting It All Together#

Customizing and upgrading your car in Gran Turismo 2 requires balancing performance parts with personal tweaks to create a ride that not only looks good but also performs exceptionally well on the track. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your driving style and the specific challenges of each race.

In short, don’t be afraid to invest in quality parts and test your setups to optimize performance. With the right upgrades and customizations, you’ll be dominating the tracks in no time.

Ready to hit the garage and start tuning? Let’s get those gears grinding!

Tips for Car Selection#

1. Know Your Class#

First off, it’s important to understand the different car classes in Gran Turismo 2. Cars come in various categories like standard road cars, sports cars, and racing machines. Make sure you’re choosing a car that fits the type of races you want to compete in. Using a high-powered race car in a standard road car event isn’t allowed, and using a basic road car in a high-stakes race will get you lapped in no time.

2. Start Small, Think Big#

In the beginning, you won’t have enough credits to buy fancy cars. Kick things off with budget-friendly options like the Mazda Miata or a Honda Civic. These cars are cheap but still pack enough punch to win early races and build up your credit stash. Once you start winning, you can sell your starter car or keep it for lower-class races and begin expanding your garage.

3. Focus on Handling#

Power isn’t everything. While it might be tempting to go for the highest horsepower you can afford, handling can make or break your chances of crossing the finish line first. Look for cars with good balance and handling stats to help you take corners smoothly and avoid crashing. The Subaru Impreza and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series offer a perfect mix of power and handling, making them great choices as you progress.

4. Upgrade Wisely#

After purchasing a car, it’s tempting to spend all your credits on upgrades. Focus first on the upgrades that will give you the most bang for your buck. Tires should be your first priority; better tires improve grip and handling dramatically. After that, look into weight reductions and suspension upgrades. Once your car handles well, then think about boosting power with engine mods or turbo kits.

5. Keep Special Races in Mind#

Certain cars shine in specific races or series. For example, the Viper GTS is a fantastic choice for the American Championship, while Japanese cars like the Nissan Skyline rule in the GT All-Stars. Keep an eye on car restrictions and advantages for each championship series. This strategy will allow you to dominate the leaderboard and earn those sweet, sweet rewards.

6. Test and Tune#

Every car handles differently, and even the same car can feel very different with various upgrades. Spend some time doing practice laps and tweak your settings accordingly. Adjust your tire pressure, tweak the suspension, and make minor changes to better suit your driving style. A well-tuned car can be surprisingly more competitive than an overpowered but poorly tuned one.

7. Save and Experiment#

As you move up in the ranks and earn more credits, start saving up for more high-end vehicles. Experimenting with different makes and models will help you learn what suits your racing style best. Some players swear by the Nissan GT-R series, while others are loyal to the Ferrari stable. Remember, the fun in Gran Turismo 2 is in trying different cars and discovering your favorites.

That’s it, racers! Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be on the fast track to becoming a Gran Turismo 2 legend. Always remember to balance power with handling, choose your upgrades wisely, and don’t be afraid to test and tweak. Happy racing!

Gran Turismo 2: Car Selection Guide
https://www.rappy-world.com/posts/gran_turismo_2_car_selection_guide/
Author
Rappy-World
Published at
2023-08-26