Gran Turismo vs Gran Turismo 5
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Gran Turismo is the acclaimed first entry in the simulator racing series, developed over five years by Polyphony Digital and designed by Kazunori Yamauchi. It offers an authentic driving experience that became the best-selling PlayStation game, captivating players with its deep simulation mechanics and vast automotive selection. The game features two distinct gameplay styles: Arcade Mode for immediate free-choice racing and the deep Gran Turismo Mode, where players earn driver's licenses, credits, and prize cars through career championships. With 140 meticulously detailed cars and 11 challenging race tracks, it sets the standard for console racing simulators.
Gran Turismo 5 is the fifth mainline installment in the renowned racing video game franchise, developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. Serving as the first full-fledged entry for the PlayStation 3, it delivers an unprecedented level of automotive realism and expansive racing content. The title features a massive roster of over 1,000 meticulously detailed vehicles, 26 diverse locations, and 71 unique tracks. Incorporating official licenses from prestigious racing series like the World Rally Championship, NASCAR, and Super GT, it offers players an authentic and comprehensive motorsport experience.
- In-depth and realistic driving simulation for its era
- Robust career progression via Gran Turismo Mode
- Extensive roster of 140 cars and 11 unique tracks
- Engaging driver's license qualification system
- Massive selection of over 1,000 vehicles
- Official NASCAR, WRC, and Super GT licenses
- Robust online multiplayer for up to 16 players
- Stunning graphics and realistic physics engine for the PS3 era
- Dated graphics by modern standards
- Steeper learning curve for casual arcade players
- Limited to local multiplayer options
- Long installation and loading times for full game features
- Standard car models lack the extreme detail of premium models
- Steep difficulty curve for casual racing fans
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGran Turismo 5 is the safer, higher-rated modern default offering vastly more content and online play, whereas the original Gran Turismo is a cheaper, classic entry point with a steeper learning curve for its era. The main trade-off is modern scope, online features, and price versus classic retro nostalgia.
Key differences
- •Gran Turismo 5 features over 1,000 cars and 71 tracks across 26 global locations, compared to the original game's 140 cars and 11 tracks.
- •Gran Turismo 5 supports online multiplayer for up to 16 players, whereas the original is limited to local multiplayer and split-screen.
- •Gran Turismo 5 includes official NASCAR, World Rally Championship, and Super GT licenses alongside night racing, which the original lacks.
- •Gran Turismo 5 costs $59.99 (MSRP) with a higher critic score of 85/100, while the original costs $39.99 (MSRP) with a critic score of 73/100.
Gameplay & fun factor
Gran Turismo 5 includes official WRC, NASCAR, and Super GT licenses, night racing, and an 85/100 critic score over the original's 73/100.
Platform availability
Neither platform availability nor specific console requirements are specified in the provided facts beyond PlayStation publisher details.
Price & value
Gran Turismo is cheaper with a $39.99 MSRP compared to Gran Turismo 5's $59.99 MSRP.
Multiplayer / co-op
Gran Turismo 5 supports online multiplayer for up to 16 players alongside split-screen, whereas the original is limited to local multiplayer.
Content & replayability
Gran Turismo 5 offers over 1,000 cars and 71 tracks across 26 locations, vastly exceeding the original's 140 cars and 11 tracks.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both games feature a steep difficulty or learning curve for casual racing fans, alongside beginner-friendly PEGI 3 and ESRB E ratings.
Graphics & performance
Gran Turismo 5 features stunning graphics and realistic physics for the PS3 era, while the original features graphics that are dated by modern standards.
Choose Gran Turismo if…
Classic PlayStation gamers and fans looking for a more affordable, nostalgic retro racing simulator experience.
Choose Gran Turismo 5 if…
Racing enthusiasts wanting massive vehicle rosters, official motorsport licenses, and 16-player online multiplayer.
Common questions
How do the prices compare between the two games?
Gran Turismo has an MSRP of $39.99, while Gran Turismo 5 has an MSRP of $59.99.
Which game has better multiplayer options?
Gran Turismo 5 includes online multiplayer for up to 16 players alongside split-screen, whereas the original Gran Turismo is limited to local multiplayer options.
How much content is included in each game in terms of cars and tracks?
Gran Turismo features 140 authentic cars and 11 tracks, while Gran Turismo 5 features over 1,000 cars and 71 tracks set in 26 global locations.