How Realistic Is Automobilista 2?

Summary

James Baldwin revisits Automobilista 2 after its v1.6 update, testing the McLaren 720S GT3 Evo at Spa-Francorchamps. He compares the sim’s portrayal of the car with his real-world GT3 experience and earlier tests in other racing sims. He notes that he had no involvement with AMS2’s developers and is offering an outsider’s assessment.

Test and Gameplay Highlights

• Baldwin uses Time Trial and a setup from a leading McLaren player’s leaderboard entry.
• He evaluates the onboard and external engine sounds, updated graphics, car handling, force feedback, suspension, and lap-time performance.
• The onboard sound doesn’t match the real car, though he finds it immersive. The external audio sounds more convincing.
• He praises the graphics and optimization, reporting max settings at 1440p and around 150 FPS.
• The suspension’s movement over bumps and kerbs feels convincing and gives the car a satisfying sense of weight.
• He sets a 2:14.1, finishes fourth overall, and is the quickest McLaren. He notes that the leaderboard’s Lamborghini benchmark is 2:13.4.

Driving Feel and Assessment

The v1.6 tire-physics changes appear to limit excessive steering input and power-sliding compared with Baldwin’s earlier experience. However, he still finds the car too prone to drifting. He says coasting through a corner feels too slow, encouraging a driving style that alternates between throttle and braking rather than allowing the car to settle.

He also finds the custom force-feedback setting overly active and artificial compared with the relatively muted steering feel of the real GT3 car.

Overall, Baldwin considers AMS2 fun, with varied car-and-track combinations and appealing day/night and weather cycles, but not the most realistic option for GT3 driving. He names Le Mans Ultimate and Assetto Corsa Competizione as stronger realism benchmarks, while noting that iRacing feels comparatively subdued in its force feedback.

People and Sources

• James Baldwin — driver and reviewer.
• Other references: iRacing, Le Mans Ultimate, Assetto Corsa Competizione, and LFM online races.
• Baldwin also uses a setup from an unnamed top McLaren leaderboard driver and draws on his own real-world GT3 experience.