Gran Turismo 2 vs Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Gran Turismo 2 is the acclaimed racing game for the Sony PlayStation and the sequel to the original blockbuster. Expanding vastly on its predecessor, it delivers an unprecedented collection of real-world vehicles and diverse racing circuits, including dedicated rally tracks. Players can jump straight into the action using Arcade Mode with free vehicle choices and optional damage, or dive deep into the comprehensive Gran Turismo Mode. In simulation mode, drivers must earn driver's licenses, purchase cars with earned credits, and win trophies to unlock new racing events and tracks.
Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is a critically acclaimed racing simulation game developed by Polyphony Digital for the PlayStation 2. Released in 2001, it redefined the genre with stunning graphics, advanced physics, and an extensive campaign spanning beginner, amateur, professional, endurance, and rally races. Players can collect and tune over 150 meticulously modeled vehicles featuring advanced graphical effects like sun glare, heat distortion, and real-time reflections. With split-screen local multiplayer, TV-style replay modes, and a licensed soundtrack, it delivers an authentic and immersive motorsport experience.
- Massive roster of nearly 650 authentic automobiles
- Deep and rewarding simulation career progression
- Includes challenging dirt and tarmac rally tracks
- Flexible play styles via Arcade and Gran Turismo modes
- Incredible vehicle physics and handling simulation
- Stunning graphical fidelity for its era with advanced visual effects
- Massive variety of races including championships, endurance, and rally
- Robust replay mode with broadcast-style camera angles
- Qualifying for races has been removed
- Physics and graphics are very similar to the original game
- Hardware limited to the original PlayStation console
- Limited online multiplayer capabilities by modern standards
- Steep learning curve for casual arcade racing fans
- Car roster is restricted to vehicles available up to the game's 2001 release
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Gran Turismo 2
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The legendary racing simulator featuring over 150 detailed cars and realistic physics.
Alternatives to Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec
View all →The ultimate automotive simulation sequel featuring nearly 650 cars and 27 tracks.
A high-definition preview of the ultimate racing simulator for PlayStation 3.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGran Turismo 3 is the safer default if you want superior graphical fidelity, advanced physics, and a perfect critic score, while Gran Turismo 2 offers a much larger car roster and a deeper career progression at a lower price.
Key differences
- •Car Roster Size: Gran Turismo 2 features nearly 650 cars, whereas Gran Turismo 3 includes over 150 detailed cars restricted to vehicles available up to 2001.
- •Price: Gran Turismo 2 is priced at $39.99 MSRP, compared to $49.99 for Gran Turismo 3.
- •Release Date & Hardware: Gran Turismo 2 released in December 1999 for the original PlayStation, while Gran Turismo 3 released in April 2001.
- •Races and Tracks: Gran Turismo 2 features 27 distinct tracks, whereas Gran Turismo 3 offers 60 championship races, 10 endurance races, and 10 rally races.
Gameplay & fun factor
Gran Turismo 3 features incredible vehicle physics, handling simulation, and advanced replay modes with TV-style camera views.
Platform availability
Not specified for specific console hardware compatibility beyond Gran Turismo 2 being limited to the original PlayStation console.
Price & value
Gran Turismo 2 costs $39.99 MSRP, making it $10 cheaper than Gran Turismo 3's $49.99 price point.
Multiplayer / co-op
Both games support Single player, Multiplayer, and local two-player split-screen multiplayer modes.
Content & replayability
Gran Turismo 2 offers nearly 650 automobiles and a deep Gran Turismo Mode requiring driver's licenses to unlock racing classes.
Difficulty & accessibility
Gran Turismo 3 has a steep learning curve for casual arcade racing fans, though both are targeted at enthusiasts.
Graphics & performance
Gran Turismo 3 boasts stunning graphical fidelity for its era with dynamic sun glare, heat distortion, and realistic reflections.
Choose Gran Turismo 2 if…
Automotive fans wanting the massive variety of nearly 650 cars and a deep career progression mode.
Choose Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec if…
Players wanting cutting-edge era graphics, advanced vehicle physics, and a flawless 100/100 critic score.
Common questions
How much do these games cost?
Gran Turismo 3 has an MSRP of $49.99, while Gran Turismo 2 has an MSRP of $39.99.
Which game has more cars?
Gran Turismo 2 features nearly 650 cars, whereas Gran Turismo 3 features over 150 detailed cars.
Do both games feature split-screen multiplayer?
Yes, both Gran Turismo 2 and Gran Turismo 3 support local split-screen multiplayer for head-to-head racing with a friend.