How Does Sim Racing Compare To The Real Thing?

December 14, 2017

1 min read

With laser-scanning, ever-evolving tyre models and pro driver consultants, sims strive to become more realistic with every new version. But how well does the virtual driving compare to the real world?

Pro racer Scott Mansell tries to answer this burning question based on his own experience.

Mansell has driven many of the cars he’s racing in sims such as iRacing, Project CARS & rFactor in real life, allowing him to draw a direct comparison. His real racing credentials include seasons in the Porsche Carrera Cup, Superleague Formula, Indy Pro Series & Radical Masters.

So how does sim racing help drivers prepare for real races? Do setup changes have the same effect in the sim as they have in real life? All that and more is answered by Scott below.