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Since its first appearance in 1997, the series Grand Tourism has established itself as an essential reference in the world of automobile simulation games. Developed by Polyphony Digital, this saga revolutionized the genre by offering players a realistic and immersive driving experience. What sets Gran Turismo apart from other racing games is its commitment to authenticity and detail. With stunning graphics, precise driving physics and a huge range of licensed vehicles, Gran Turismo has captivated millions of automotive enthusiasts around the world. Let's take a look at how some of the series' most iconic car designs helped shape this gaming legend.
1998 Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special
The 1998 Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special is often considered one of the most legendary cars in Gran Turismo. With his 981 horsepowerit was designed to conquer the famous Pikes Peak hill climb, renowned for its steep slopes and extreme conditions. In-game, the Escudo proved to be a true force of nature, capable of competing with much more modest vehicles like Mini Coopers and Mazda Demios.
It's in Gran Turismo 2 that the Escudo made its first appearance, and it quickly became a favorite among players thanks to its ability to dominate races effortlessly. Once acquired, it simplified the game considerably, transforming each race into a simple formality. The fun lay in harnessing this raw power, and the Escudo has remained a symbol of power in almost every edition of Gran Turismo since.
The model was reintroduced in Gran Turismo 7 with update 1.17, integrated into a more balanced vehicle environment. It allows players to rediscover the exhilarating sensations of this legendary machine while offering a renewed challenge. This return to the sources allows us to reaffirm the preponderant place of the Escudo in the history of Gran Turismo, while celebrating the evolution and balance of the gameplay.
1999 Nissan PENNZOIL Nismo GT-R
In the world of Gran Turismo, the 1999 Nissan PENNZOIL Nismo GT-R is a car that has aroused fascination and desire. Although its acquisition was a luxury reserved for a few, the sleek silhouette and bold design of this Skyline R33 made it an object of desire for many players. With its 2.7-liter turbo engine, it reached an impressive speed of 178 mph on the straights, a feat that was not within the reach of all cars of the era.
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The exorbitant price of the Nismo GT-R made it a distant dream for gamers, forcing them to rack up numerous victories in endurance races to hope to add it to their garage. That said, simply admiring it on the showroom menu could be enough to fuel the ambitions of many car enthusiasts. The promise of imaginary victories motivated the strenuous efforts of those who aspired to own this jewel of the Japanese automobile industry.
This GT-R was much more than just a race car. She embodied the spirit of Grand Tourism : a mixture of realism, passion and challenge. It symbolized the aspiration for excellence and the incessant quest for performance, values which have remained at the heart of the series since its beginnings.
2019 Lamborghini V12 Vision Gran Turismo
The 2019 Lamborghini V12 Vision Gran Turismo is a perfect illustration of the innovation and creativity that characterize the series. By challenging automakers to create their dream cars without the usual constraints, Gran Turismo paved the way for bold, futuristic designs. Among these creations, the Lamborghini V12 stands out for its distinctive and aggressive design, faithful to the angular and spatial aesthetic of the Italian brand.
Unlike many other concepts that ended up looking like variations of the same basic design, the V12 Vision Gran Turismo retains Lamborghini DNA. It stands out with its violent lines and bold diagonals, evoking classic icons like the Countach while projecting an avant-garde vision of the automobile. This model first appeared in Gran Turismo 7captivating players with its unique looks and refined driving ability.
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Not only does the V12 Vision Gran Turismo deliver an exhilarating driving experience, but it also represents the spirit of innovation that drives Gran Turismo. This car is a testament to the series' ability to push the boundaries of automotive design while remaining true to the brand's core values. She embodies the limitless potential of creativity when unfettered by the constraints of the real world.
-1998 Daihatsu Midget II D-Type
The Daihatsu Midget II D-Type de 1998 is perhaps one of the most unexpected and unique cars in the Gran Turismo series. Indeed, its modest appearance and limited performance might seem out of place in a game that celebrates speed and power. However, this little marvel embodies another fundamental aspect of Gran Turismo: the diversity and accessibility of the vehicles offered across the different editions.
With its 0.7 liter engine, the Midget II is not designed to break speed records. However, it offers a unique experience thanks to the possibility of improving its performance by purchasing new parts. This process of transforming an ordinary car into a real racing car is one of the major attractions of the game. It allows players to relate to an evolving and engaging driving experience.
The Midget II also represents Gran Turismo's ability to include a wide range of vehicles, from hypercars to economy compacts, reflecting the diversity of the automotive industry itself. It highlights the importance of Japanese cars in the series, emphasizing their crucial role in the history of Gran Turismo and their contribution to the authenticity of the simulation.
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1996 Toyota Castrol SUPRA GT
The 1996 Toyota Castrol SUPRA GT is another Gran Turismo legend, a car that captivated players from its first appearance. It is often compared to its rival, the Denso Supra, but this model stands out for its iconic style and rich history. The alliance between Toyota and Castrol has produced a racing car that embodies the very spirit of motor racing.
In the original version of Grand Tourism On PlayStation 1, the Castrol Supra was one of the few racing cars available, and its exceptional handling offered a driving experience unlike any other. Even without the modern technologies of current controllers, it managed to convey a feeling of control and power. This experience stood out for its total immersion in the world of racing.a challenge that few games of the time could meet.
The 1996 model, as well as the 1997 version, have become staples of the series, appearing in several successive editions. The Castrol SUPRA GT symbolizes the unique blend of nostalgia and innovation that makes Gran Turismo so successful, and it continues to inspire gamers with its timeless presence.
Gran Turismo has captivated generations of gamers with its selection of cars that range from futuristic concepts to iconic racing models. Each of these vehicles embodies a particular aspect of the series, whether it's raw power, revolutionary design, or the accessibility of ordinary cars. Through these choices, Gran Turismo offers a complete and immersive vision of the automotive industry. What will be the next model to join this prestigious list of Gran Turismo icons?
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