Introduction
Gran Turismo has always been more than just a racing game; it’s a celebration of automotive culture. One of the key aspects that keeps players engaged is the constant quest for new and exciting cars to add to their virtual garages. The Touring Car Cup in Gran Turismo, particularly within the seventh installment, stands as a popular and challenging race series that offers a rewarding way to earn some fantastic vehicles. But what specific cars can you actually win by participating and succeeding in this competition?
This article delves into the prize cars awarded for conquering the Touring Car Cup in Gran Turismo seven. We’ll explore the series’ nuances, identify the tantalizing rewards awaiting successful racers, and provide tips on maximizing your chances of securing those coveted vehicles. Prepare to discover the automotive treasures that await you at the finish line!
What Exactly is the Touring Car Cup?
The Touring Car Cup in Gran Turismo is a carefully curated race series designed to showcase the thrill and precision of touring car racing. These are not your typical high-powered supercars; instead, the focus is on modified road cars that have been tuned and tweaked for optimal performance on the track. The essence of touring car racing lies in the balance between power, handling, and strategic modifications, all within a specific set of regulations.
Entry requirements for the Touring Car Cup often stipulate that vehicles must adhere to a particular performance point (PP) limit. This ensures a level playing field, encouraging drivers to focus on skillful driving and intelligent tuning rather than simply relying on raw horsepower. Typically, the PP limit hovers around a level that allows for a wide range of popular sports cars and modified sedans to compete effectively.
The format of the Touring Car Cup typically involves a series of races held across various iconic tracks featured in Gran Turismo. The exact tracks and number of races can vary depending on the specific event or update within the game, but you can usually expect a combination of familiar circuits and challenging layouts. The combination of varied tracks and limited car choices provides a diverse racing experience that allows players to explore the nuance of each track.
Finding the Touring Car Cup is usually straightforward. You can typically locate it within the World Circuits section of the Gran Turismo menu, or within the “Sport” section if it is featured as an online challenge. Keep an eye on the game’s news and updates, as the availability and specific details of the Touring Car Cup may change over time.
Prize Cars: The Spoils of Victory in the Touring Car Cup
Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: the prize cars. While the specific vehicles offered as rewards in the Touring Car Cup can change periodically with game updates, there are several notable cars that have appeared frequently as potential prizes. Please note that winning all races in the tournament usually awards the best possible car, but partial victory or even participation may still result in a prize, even if it is not the top tier option.
Nissan Silvia Spec-R Aero (S15)
This Japanese icon is a drift-ready machine right off the bat, but its performance is also respectable on the track. The Silvia Spec-R Aero (S15) is well-balanced, responsive, and relatively easy to handle, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced players. Its sleek design and tuning potential make it a valuable addition to any garage. It is a rare car to be awarded, so it is wise to try and win if it appears.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV GSR
This car is a legend in the rally and racing world. The Evo IV GSR is known for its all-wheel-drive grip, powerful turbocharged engine, and excellent handling. It’s a potent competitor in the Touring Car Cup, especially on tracks with challenging corners and varying surfaces. The Evo IV is a good prize car that will be useful in your collection.
BMW M3 Sport Evolution (E30)
A classic German sports car known for its iconic design and superb handling. The BMW M3 Sport Evolution (E30) offers a rewarding driving experience, with precise steering and a responsive engine. It is a prized car for many collectors, and it is often useful in other races.
Renault Megane R.S. Trophy
The Renault Megane R.S. Trophy is a front-wheel-drive hot hatch that packs a punch. Known for its sharp handling and powerful engine, the Megane R.S. Trophy is a surprisingly capable car on the track. While its front-wheel-drive layout requires a slightly different driving style, its responsiveness and agility make it a fun and competitive option for the Touring Car Cup. It is not the best car, but it is still a decent prize.
Honda Civic Type R (EK9)
A lightweight, high-revving front-wheel-drive icon. The Honda Civic Type R (EK9) delivers a thrilling driving experience with its naturally aspirated engine and precise handling. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy a more engaging and challenging driving style. The Type R is an extremely popular car amongst players, and is one of the best performing front wheel drive cars.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI Coupe Type R (Version VI)
A car that brings back memories for many, and is the choice of many players. A powerful, balanced, and fun car to drive on the track. It is popular amongst many players as it is also very useful in off-road events, but is a car that will require skill to use effectively.
It’s important to note that the specific prize cars offered may vary depending on the particular event or update within Gran Turismo. Always check the event details before participating to confirm the available rewards. Furthermore, the car received may vary depending on the level of completion of the event. For example, achieving a gold trophy may reward you with a rarer or more valuable car compared to receiving a silver or bronze trophy.
Strategies for Dominating the Touring Car Cup
Securing these prize cars requires more than just luck; it demands skill, strategy, and a well-tuned vehicle. Here are some essential tips to help you conquer the Touring Car Cup:
Tuning Your Ride
Fine-tuning your car is crucial for maximizing its performance. Experiment with different settings for suspension, gear ratios, and aerodynamics to find the optimal setup for each track. Pay close attention to the PP limit and ensure your modifications remain within the allowed range. Gearing is especially important as you want your car to use the correct amount of power in each part of the track.
Choosing the Right Car
While any eligible car can participate, some vehicles are inherently better suited for the Touring Car Cup than others. Research which cars are generally considered the top contenders based on their handling, power, and overall balance. Look for cars with a good combination of acceleration, braking, and cornering ability. Some cars are simply easier to drive and tune than others.
Mastering Driving Technique
Smooth and precise driving is essential for success. Practice your braking points, cornering lines, and throttle control. Avoid aggressive maneuvers that can upset the car’s balance and cost you valuable time. Mastering techniques such as trail braking and managing weight transfer can give you a significant edge. Always aim for consistency.
Tire Choice
Selecting the correct tires can make a world of difference. Consider the track conditions, the car’s characteristics, and the race length when choosing your tires. Softer tires offer more grip but wear out faster, while harder tires last longer but provide less traction. Experiment with different compounds to find the best balance for each race.
Race Strategy
Develop a race strategy that takes into account tire wear, fuel consumption (if applicable), and potential pit stops. Plan your pit stops carefully to minimize downtime and ensure you have enough fuel and tire life to finish the race. Keep an eye on your competitors and adapt your strategy as needed. Aggressive overtaking is important, but preserving tire life is essential.
Alternatives: Other Avenues for Acquiring Touring Cars
While the Touring Car Cup offers a fantastic opportunity to earn new cars, it’s not the only way to expand your collection of touring cars in Gran Turismo. Several other avenues exist for acquiring these desirable vehicles:
Brand Central
The Brand Central section of the game features a vast selection of cars from various manufacturers. You can purchase many touring cars directly from Brand Central using credits earned through racing and completing challenges.
Legend Cars Dealer
The Legend Cars Dealer offers a rotating selection of rare and classic cars, including some iconic touring cars from motorsport history. Check back regularly to see what new treasures have arrived.
Used Cars Dealer
The Used Cars Dealer provides a more affordable option for acquiring touring cars. The selection changes frequently, so keep an eye out for bargains on previously owned vehicles.
Daily Workout Rewards
Completing your daily workout in Gran Turismo often rewards you with a roulette ticket. These tickets can be used to win various prizes, including cars, credits, and tuning parts. While the chances of winning a specific touring car are slim, it’s still a worthwhile way to potentially expand your garage.
Roulette Tickets
These tickets can be won throughout the game and offer a similar experience to the daily workout reward.
In Conclusion: A Gateway to Automotive Excellence
The Touring Car Cup in Gran Turismo is more than just a race series; it’s a gateway to automotive excellence. By participating and succeeding in this challenging competition, you can earn a variety of coveted prize cars, including the Nissan Silvia Spec-R Aero (S15), Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV GSR, BMW M3 Sport Evolution (E30), Renault Megane R.S. Trophy, and Honda Civic Type R (EK9), amongst others. Each of these cars offers a unique driving experience and the potential for further customization and tuning.
So, gear up, fine-tune your ride, and prepare to take on the Touring Car Cup! With skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck, you can add these fantastic vehicles to your collection and experience the thrill of touring car racing in Gran Turismo. Consider exploring what other cars may be useful to acquire in Gran Turismo, such as the best rally cars!
