Racing games have always been a favorite for car enthusiasts, and one of the most important aspects of any racing game is the car models themselves. The most immersive racing experiences come from games that pay attention to the fine details of car design, from the exterior’s paint job to the interior’s dashboard features. Whether you’re looking for simulation-level realism or arcade-style fun, these games offer the best car models to feast your eyes on. Here’s a list of the top 10 racing games with the best car models.
Gran Turismo 7
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Gran Turismo 7 is the definitive driving simulator that sets the standard for car modeling in video games. With over 400 cars, each one is meticulously crafted with exceptional attention to detail. From the gloss of the paint to the way light reflects off the car’s curves, the visuals are stunningly lifelike.
Why It’s Great:
- Realistic exterior and interior modeling, with high fidelity down to the stitching on seats and the buttons on the dashboard.
- Dynamic lighting and weather effects enhance the appearance of each car in different environments.
- A wide variety of cars, from vintage classics to modern hypercars, all accurately recreated.
Gran Turismo 7 remains one of the most visually impressive racing games, making every car look like it just rolled off the assembly line.
Forza Horizon 5
Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
Forza Horizon 5 brings Mexico’s vibrant open-world landscapes to life, and the game’s cars look equally spectacular. With over 500 cars, ranging from high-end supercars to classic muscle cars, the attention to detail on each vehicle is breathtaking.
Why It’s Great:
- Exceptional car models with realistic textures, reflections, and weathering effects (e.g., dirt and rain accumulation).
- Realistic physics, with cars showing signs of wear and tear, adding to their immersion.
- The lighting system is dynamic, creating a different look for every time of day, whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or rain.
Forza Horizon 5 combines beautiful environments with stunning car models that shine in both casual gameplay and realism.
Assetto Corsa
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Assetto Corsa is a racing simulation game known for its highly detailed car models. Its focus on realism is reflected not just in physics but in the intricacy of each car’s design. The game includes some of the most realistic car models available, including manufacturers like Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini.
Why It’s Great:
- Precise detailing of car exteriors and interiors, from dashboard buttons to tire treads.
- Realistic handling, giving each car a unique driving experience that matches its real-world counterpart.
- Extensive customization options, allowing players to tweak every aspect of their car’s performance and appearance.
For fans of simulation racing, Assetto Corsa offers unparalleled attention to car model detail.
Project CARS 2
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Project CARS 2 is another top-tier racing simulation game that emphasizes realism. The car models in this game are among the best in the industry, with an incredibly realistic level of detail in both design and behavior on the track.
Why It’s Great:
- More than 180 cars, each modeled with painstaking attention to detail, including engine parts and suspension systems.
- Cars behave authentically based on their real-world counterparts, and dynamic weather and track conditions further enhance the realism.
- Highly accurate vehicle sound design and interior models, from the cockpit view to the reflective surfaces on the cars.
Project CARS 2 offers an immersive experience for racing fans who appreciate realism and precision.
F1 2021
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
As one of the most accurate racing simulators, F1 2021 offers incredibly realistic Formula 1 car models, both inside and out. The game captures the speed and sophistication of F1 cars, with detailed modeling that makes the game’s vehicles feel lifelike.
Why It’s Great:
- Formula 1 cars are modeled to perfection, with complex aerodynamics, suspension systems, and realistic tire textures.
- Interior cockpits are beautifully detailed, with working buttons, steering wheels, and displays.
- Each car reflects its real-world counterpart, with teams like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull all present in the game.
If you love Formula 1 racing, F1 2021 provides the most authentic experience in terms of car models and design.
Conclusion
The racing games on this list set a high standard for car modeling, whether you’re looking for lifelike realism, breathtaking detail, or stunning visuals. From hyper-realistic simulators like Gran Turismo 7 and Assetto Corsa to the fun customization of Need for Speed: Heat, these games show off cars in the best light possible. Whether you’re a simulation purist or an arcade enthusiast, there’s something here for every car lover.
