Gran Turismo 4 vs Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Gran Turismo 4 is a premier racing video game developed by Polyphony Digital and the final installment in the series for the Sony PlayStation 2. It offers an unprecedented automotive collection with over 700 vehicles from 80 manufacturers and 51 meticulously designed tracks. Renowned for its technical achievements, it stands as one of the few PlayStation 2 titles capable of 1080i output. Players can dive into a deeply realistic driving experience featuring comprehensive physics, diverse real-world and fictional circuits, and robust single-player and split-screen multiplayer modes.
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue serves as an advanced precursor and technical showcase for the full Gran Turismo 5 experience, replacing Gran Turismo HD Concept. Featuring a native 60 frames per second frame rate during races, LPCM 7.1ch high definition sound, and detailed vehicle physics, it bridges the gap between past entries and the next generation of racing simulations. Updated through the Spec III software revision, the title expanded its offerings to include up to 16-player online races, over 70 meticulously modeled production and tuned cars, and 6 diverse tracks with 12 unique layouts. It provides players with a comprehensive taste of competitive racing and high-fidelity automotive culture on the PlayStation 3 platform.
- Massive selection of over 700 cars
- Impressive 1080i graphical output capability
- Extensive lineup of 51 diverse tracks
- Deep and rewarding career progression
- Stunning high-definition visuals running at a fluid 60 frames per second during races
- Extensive car roster featuring over 70 meticulously recreated vehicles including tuned variants
- Robust online multiplayer supporting up to 16 players per race
- Immersive LPCM 7.1ch high definition sound design
- Online multiplayer mode was removed during development
- Long development delays prior to release
- Hardware limitations of the PlayStation 2 platform
- Content is ultimately a preview and precursor rather than a full standalone game
- Limited to a total of 6 distinct tracks and 12 layouts
- Replays are displayed at a lower 30 frames per second instead of the in-race 60 FPS
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGran Turismo 4 offers a massive car and track library with classic PS2 graphics, while Gran Turismo 5 Prologue provides modern HD visuals, online play, but far less content.
Key differences
- •GT4 has 700+ cars vs GT5 Prologue's 70 cars.
- •GT4 includes 51 tracks vs GT5 Prologue's 6 tracks (12 layouts).
- •GT5 Prologue supports online multiplayer for up to 16 players; GT4 lacks online multiplayer.
- •GT5 Prologue runs at 60 fps HD on PS3; GT4 runs at 1080i on PS2 but lower frame rates.
- •Price: GT4 $49.99 vs GT5 Prologue $39.99.
Gameplay & fun factor
GT4's extensive car roster and 51 tracks give far more variety and replayability than GT5 Prologue's limited content.
Platform availability
GT5 Prologue runs on PS3 with modern HD support, whereas GT4 is limited to the older PS2 hardware.
Price & value
GT5 Prologue costs $10 less, but GT4 provides roughly ten times more cars and tracks, offering higher content value.
Multiplayer / co‑op
GT5 Prologue includes robust online multiplayer for up to 16 players; GT4 only offers local split‑screen.
Content & replayability
GT4's 700+ cars and 51 tracks create a deeper career mode and longer lifespan than GT5 Prologue's preview content.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both are rated ESRB E/PEGI 3 and target similar audiences; no data on relative difficulty.
Graphics & performance
GT5 Prologue delivers 60 fps HD visuals on PS3; GT4 offers 1080i output but on older PS2 hardware.
Choose Gran Turismo 4 if…
Players who prioritize content depth, car variety, and a rich career mode on PS2.
Choose Gran Turismo 5 Prologue if…
Players who want modern HD graphics, online races, and PS3 compatibility.
Common questions
Which game gives more cars and tracks?
Gran Turismo 4 offers over 700 cars and 51 tracks; Gran Turismo 5 Prologue has 70 cars and 6 tracks (12 layouts).
Can I race online with friends?
Only Gran Turismo 5 Prologue supports online multiplayer for up to 16 players; GT4 has no online mode.
Is the price difference justified?
GT5 Prologue is $10 cheaper but provides far less content; GT4’s higher price reflects its much larger car and track library.