GT3 is one of the most popular classes in iRacing. With ten cars now in the line-up, we ask which one is the best? iRacing’s GT3 roster finally has all the major cutting-edge manufacturers and current contenders, thanks to the latest edition of the McLaren 720s GT3 EVO and Acura NSX GT3 EVO 22.
With standalone series for GT3s such as the Ferrari GT3 Fixed, the GT3 Sprint and Endurance, as well as the weekly multiclass racing in IMSA, its accompanying IMSA Endurance Series, the Global Endurance Tour, and the infrequent Nürburgring Endurance Series and Creventic Endurance Series, there’s never been a better time to get behind a GT3 machine.
We will look at the current iRacing GT3 lineup and some of our favourites at Coach Dave Academy.
The Current Crop of GT3 cars in iRacing
iRacing currently hosts ten modern GT3s, and they couldn’t be more different from each other if they tried. Aside from the Legacy content, the GT3 rostrum is a mixture of up-to-date machines from all the top manufacturers, with an array of engine configurations to boot.
- Acura NSX GT3 EVO 22
- Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO 2
- BMW M4 GT3
- Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R
- Ferrari 296 GT3
- Ford Mustang GT3
- Lamborghini Huracán GT3
- McLaren 720S GT3 EVO
- Mercedes-AMG GT3 2020
- Porsche 992 GT3 R
The newest active GT3 on the platform is the Acura NSX GT3 EVO 22, which comes just one season after the McLaren 720s GT3 EVO. The oldest GT3 machine on the main roster is now the Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO. The screaming V10 and fantastic car balance are still much-loved today even if the car has fallen out of favour with fans over recent years. Sometimes, what you want is to wrestle control of an Italian bull!
Gain seconds in lap time with our incredible iRacing setups that include professionally developed setups and referance laps for every car available in the official weekly racing series that you can find on iRacing.
From here, it’s time to look at our top picks for the best iRacing GT3 cars…
The Newest Addition: Acura NSX GT3 EVO 22
The Acura NSX GT3 Evo 22 is the latest evolution of Honda’s mid-engine masterpiece, designed to dominate the racetrack with precision and power. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 derived from its road-going counterpart, this GT3 racer combines advanced aerodynamics, exceptional braking capabilities, and a refined suspension setup for unmatched agility and control.
Why Pick the Acura?
- A shorter wheelbase than competitors enhances cornering precision, though it requires careful handling for consistency.
- Balanced weight distribution enhances responsiveness and cornering ability.
- Adjustable splitter and rear wing settings allow drivers to fine-tune aero balance for specific tracks and driving styles.
- Powerful brakes enable later braking without compromising stability, making it highly effective on tracks with heavy braking zones like Monza and Red Bull Ring.
The Long-Awaited Update: McLaren 720s GT3 EVO
The McLaren 720s GT3 EVO is the fourth car McLaren has built to GT3 regulations, after the MP4-12c, the 650s GT3, and the 720s GT3. The EVO version isn’t a million miles away from the first 720s variant, with McLaren going through the vehicle with a fine-tooth comb to eradicate any inherent issues reported by customers and professional drivers running it.
A Good Mid-Engine Choice?
The changes made by McLaren for the EVO version mean it enjoys a consistent aero balance in various corners, one that remains constant even with the addition of dirty air.
- It has fantastic downforce making it fast in the corners.
- A great traction control system.
- Excellent rotation without feeling too scary.
The car’s advanced aerodynamics include an adjustable front splitter, rear spoiler, and flat underbody. McLaren’s redesign has shifted the aerodynamic balance forward, resulting in a more neutral and predictable driving experience that inspires confidence on the limit.
A Good All-Rounder: Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO
Introduced in 2022, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO remains a favourite despite recent Balance of Performance (BoP) adjustments. Its forgiving nature and consistent performance make it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned racers.
Where Does the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO Excel?
- Strong front-end grip.
- Exceptional kerb-handling capability.
- Resilient to minor contact and aerodynamic damage.
The Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO takes kerbs like no other and is slightly more resistant to knocks and scrapes than other GT3 cars. The aerodynamic damage isn’t as pronounced as on mid-engine and rear-engine cars such as the Lamborghini or Porsche, and the mechanical damage isn’t as pronounced as on its front-engine rival, the BMW M4 GT3.
- Pick setups for the GT3 Series and the IMSA Series on iRacing with our iRacing setup subscription.
The Prancing Horse: Ferrari 296 GT3
How could we not include the Italian Stallion on our list? The Prancing Horse’s latest GT3 offering, the newest in this class on the platform after the Mustang and Corvette, has always been a favourite on the platform, not least because of the popular single-make series that runs the car. The car is as adaptable as ever, forgiving for the newbie and challenging enough for the seasoned sim racing expert. Put simply, it’s a Ferrari.
Why the Ferrari 296 GT3 Stands Out?
- A balanced mid-engine layout for superior aerodynamics and weight transfer.
- A powerful V6 engine derived from Ferrari’s successful prototype program.
- Strong performance in both single-make and multiclass series.
Whilst it isn’t as pitch-sensitive or easy to spin as the rear-engine Porsche 992 GT3R, the Ferrari 296 GT3 can be as challenging as the likes of the Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO and take a good fight to the rest of the GT3 roster.
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The Ferrari is also unlike many of its rivals because it features in two one-make series. One is the entry-level GT3 series called the Ferrari Challenge, and the other is the Rain Master Series, which pushes drivers and their driving abilities in inclement weather to the limit. And what would you know? We covered that series in our guide to all wet-weather series in iRacing.
The American Muscle: Chevrolet Corvette Z.06 GT3.R
The freshest mid-engined car in Motor City, the newest Corvette is fast becoming a fan-favourite in the GT3 class. And who can blame the fans? The C6 is still a favourite in the GT1 class. The C7 would be if it still ran in an official series. And, since the C8 is still popular as a GTE, it’s hardly surprising that its little brother is the next popular addition to the clan.
What Makes the Corvette Special?
- A powerful 5.5L V8 engine.
- Improved weight distribution for sharper cornering.
- Thrilling handling paired with an unmistakable soundtrack.
The C8 changed up the classic Corvette formula by becoming a mid-engined car. But rest assured, it’s not because the famous Bowtie has decided to become European. It’s still a V8 and a V8 with a 335CI engine (5.5L in kilometre-land). Believe it or not, it’s a change to make it faster. By moving the engine further back, Pratt & Miller could make the car’s weight more evenly distributed. That means better cornering and, crucially, less understeer or oversteer.
- You can pick up a setup subscription for the Chevrolet Corvette Z.06 GT3.R for the iRacing GT3 Series and the IMSA Series.
Where To Find A iRacing GT3 Setup
Extracting the most from your favourite GT3 cars couldn’t be easier with Coach Dave Academy’s iRacing Setup Subscription. Updated every week with new setups for a wide variety of series, special events, tracks and cars, all developed by professional iRacing drivers and engineers.
Gain seconds in lap time with our incredible iRacing setups that include professionally developed setups and referance laps for every car available in the official weekly racing series that you can find on iRacing.
The Fan-Favorite: BMW M4 GT3
First launching on iRacing as a prototype the year before it first turned a corner in anger at a race event, the M4 GT3 is arguably the most popular GT3 on the platform.
Why is the BMW M4 GT3 strong?
- It has a large frame that easily takes kerbs.
- It boasts a forgiving traction control system.
- It can be set up to suit various driving styles from pointy and on-edge to more mundane.
With a big build that loves kerbs and a relatively forgiving traction control system, the BMW M4 GT3 is a fun car to drive on a fixed setup and a formidable foe in open-setup racing.
In addition to the IMSA iRacing Series, VRS GT Sprint Series and the Fanatec GT3 Challenge, the M4 GT3 is also one of two GT3s to feature in iRacing’s popular Nürburgring Endurance Championship. Featuring 9 rounds across the calendar year, this multiclass endurance series sees cars from the Global Mazda MX-5 Cup face off against TCRs, GT4s, Porsche Cup cars and GT3s.
The M4 GT3 is also a one-way ticket to competing in the BMW Sim GT Cup in one of its 10 races hosted across the year. Replacing the older and bigger M8 GTE in this series, the BMW Sim GT Cup sees teams of up to four drivers race for two hours on a select track.
- If you want to find more lap time in the BMW M4 GT3, consider booking a coaching session with one of Coach Dave Academy’s professional coaches.
iRacing’s Most Fun GT3: Ford Mustang GT3
The Ford Mustang GT3 has finally galloped onto iRacing’s virtual tracks, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. Introduced in the 2024 Season 3 Update, this muscle car turned GT3 racer has quickly become one of the most entertaining vehicles to drive in the sim.
The Mustang’s concept is as exciting as its execution: a powerful muscle car at home on circuits like Daytona, Sebring, Le Mans and Imola. It shatters stereotypes with an aggressive grunt, unmistakable roar and playful oversteer. The car’s confident turn-in and kerb-handling capabilities are so impressive they’ll make you forget the size of the vehicle – it’s more dynamic than the similarly-sized BMW M4 GT3.
One of the Mustang’s standout traits is its readiness straight out of the box. While custom setups can improve its performance, the car is competitive with the base setup. For Ford fans, this is a refreshing change from the often-frustrating Ford GT GT3. The Mustang delivers on its promise and proves itself a worthy addition to the GT3 roster.
iRacing’s Most Challenging GT3: Porsche 992 GT3R
The Porsche 992 GT3 R represents the pinnacle of Stuttgart’s engineering, with the latest evolution of the beloved rear-engine GT3 platform to iRacing. Its distinct handling dynamics set it apart as a unique challenge for drivers.
Why is the Porsche 992 GT3 R so popular?
- Strong cornering ability and acceleration.
- It’s fast when driven on the edge.
- Doesn’t falter at high speeds.
Although the Porsche thrives in corners, it doesn’t lag in straight-line speed on iRacing, comparing favourably to its Assetto Corsa Competizione counterpart. Smooth and precise inputs are key to mastering this car. Drivers must embrace a controlled slide on turn-in while maintaining stability through undulations and compressions.
- If you need extra help getting to grips with the Porsche 992 GT3 R, why don’t you check out one of our iRacing Track Guides, such as this one at Daytona Road Course with Yuri Kasdorp?
The Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO
A charging bull bolting out of Italy, Lamborghini’s latest GT3 offering is a newer and more improved version of the chassis. Offering improved traction and stability, as well as a beautiful V10 engine, it’s hard not to love this car.
Where is the Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO best?
- Balanced cornering ability and acceleration.
- Surprisingly stable kerb performance for a mid-engine car.
- Good drivability, despite its unforgiving nature.
The Lamborghini’s greatest strength is its cornering prowess. Racing mid-engine GT3s can take a while to get used to, especially if you are used to the different physics engine of Assetto Corsa Competizione, however, the Lamborghini lends itself well to iRacing.
While it’s not the fastest in a straight line, its stability and agility through bends make up for it. Taming the Huracan takes patience and practice but the car delivers a thrilling driving experience.
- If you want some help fine-tuning your Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO’s setup, then make sure to check out one of our Live Setup Sessions, such as this one at Jerez.
The Audi R8 GT3 EVO 2
Audi’s latest GT3 offering is a newer and more improved version of the chassis that you see with the Lamborghini GT3 car. Offering improved traction and stability, as well as a beautiful V10 motor to boot, it’s hard not to love this car.
The Audi excels in cornering, offering incredible speed and stability, especially over kerbs – a rare trait for mid-engine cars. While it isn’t the fastest in a straight line, its agility in the corners more than compensates.
Though challenging to master, the Audi R8 GT3 EVO 2 is immensely rewarding for skilled drivers. Professional coaching or Coach Dave Academy’s lap guides can make a difference in this car.
Coach Dave Academy
Gain seconds in lap time with our incredible iRacing setups that include professionally developed setups and referance laps for every car available in the official weekly racing series that you can find on iRacing.
At Coach Dave Academy, we aim to help you unlock your potential as a driver and make the most of your car. Our iRacing Setup Subscription delivers professionally developed setups weekly, and with the Coach Dave Delta app, installing these setups is effortless.
From detailed Track Guides to Hotlaps and Live Setup Sessions, the Coach Dave Academy and Coach Dave Hotlaps YouTube channels offer resources to help you find those crucial extra tenths of a second on the track. Whether you’re fine-tuning a setup or mastering a challenging circuit, we’ve got you covered.
