So, you're diving into the world of Gran Turismo 4? Awesome! Getting started in GT4 can feel a little overwhelming with the sheer number of cars available. But don't sweat it, guys. Choosing the right car at the beginning can make a huge difference in how quickly you progress and how much fun you have. This guide will walk you through some of the best starting cars in Gran Turismo 4, helping you dominate those early races and earn credits like a pro. Let's get started and find your perfect ride!

Why Your First Car Matters

Your first car in Gran Turismo 4 isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about setting the foundation for your entire career. A well-chosen starting car can be the difference between breezing through early races and grinding endlessly just to make enough credits for upgrades or new vehicles. Think of it as an investment in your future success in the game. With a great starting car, you will be capable of winning races and increasing the number of credits to buy new cars and parts.

Early Game Domination: The initial races in Gran Turismo 4 are designed to be accessible, but that doesn't mean they're a cakewalk. Having a car with decent handling, acceleration, and top speed will give you a significant edge over the competition. You'll be able to win more races, earn more credits, and unlock new events more quickly.

Credit Farming: Credits are the lifeblood of Gran Turismo 4. You need them to buy new cars, upgrade existing ones, and maintain your vehicles. A car that performs well in early races will allow you to farm credits efficiently, accelerating your progress through the game. Look for cars that offer a good balance of performance and fuel economy to maximize your earnings.

Building Skills: The early stages of Gran Turismo 4 are also about honing your driving skills. A forgiving and responsive car will allow you to learn the nuances of the game's handling model without getting frustrated. You'll be able to experiment with different driving techniques, such as trail braking and throttle control, and gradually improve your abilities.

Long-Term Investment: While you'll eventually move on to faster and more exotic cars, your first car can still be useful in the long run. Many early-game cars are eligible for specific events or challenges later in the game. Plus, you can always keep your first car as a nostalgic reminder of your humble beginnings.

Top Contenders for Best Starting Car

Okay, let's dive into the specific cars that will give you the best bang for your buck. These cars are affordable, competitive, and fun to drive, making them ideal choices for starting your Gran Turismo 4 journey.

Honda Civic Type R (EK)

The Honda Civic Type R (EK) is an excellent starting car in Gran Turismo 4. It's relatively inexpensive, easy to handle, and surprisingly quick. The Civic Type R is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) car, which means it's generally more forgiving than rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars, especially for new players. Its responsive handling and decent acceleration make it a great choice for navigating the tight and twisty tracks that dominate the early races. It is very agile and light, this little beast is easy to control and can take corners like a champ. It is a popular pick among GT4 veterans.

Pros:

• Affordable: The Civic Type R is one of the most affordable performance cars in the game, making it accessible to players who are just starting out.
• Easy to Handle: Its FWD layout and responsive steering make it easy to control, even for inexperienced drivers.
• Nimble: The Civic Type R is incredibly nimble and can easily navigate tight corners and chicanes.
• Upgradable: There are plenty of aftermarket parts available for the Civic Type R, allowing you to further improve its performance as you progress through the game.

Cons:

• Limited Top Speed: Its top speed is somewhat limited compared to other performance cars, which can be a disadvantage on tracks with long straights.
• FWD Limitations: The FWD layout can lead to understeer in some situations, especially when cornering at high speeds.

Mazda Roadster/MX-5

The Mazda Roadster, also known as the MX-5, is another fantastic starting car in Gran Turismo 4. This rear-wheel-drive (RWD) roadster is known for its exceptional handling and balance, making it a joy to drive. While it may not be the fastest car in a straight line, its ability to carry speed through corners more than makes up for it. The Mazda Roadster is an excellent choice for players who want to learn the fundamentals of RWD driving without getting overwhelmed. It is well-balanced and responsive, teaching you the art of throttle control.

Pros:

• Excellent Handling: The Roadster's balanced chassis and responsive steering make it one of the best-handling cars in the game.
• Fun to Drive: Its RWD layout and open-top design make it a blast to drive, especially on winding roads.
• Affordable: The Roadster is relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to most players.
• Upgradable: There are numerous aftermarket parts available for the Roadster, allowing you to fine-tune its performance to your liking.

Cons:

• Low Power: The Roadster's engine is not particularly powerful, which can make it feel sluggish on tracks with long straights.
• RWD Learning Curve: The RWD layout can be challenging for new players to master, as it requires more precise throttle control and steering inputs.

Toyota Celica

The Toyota Celica is a solid all-around choice for a starting car in Gran Turismo 4. It offers a good balance of performance, handling, and affordability. The Celica is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) car, which makes it relatively easy to control, especially for new players. Its decent power and responsive handling make it a capable performer on a variety of tracks. The Toyota Celica is a reliable and versatile choice for players who want a car that can handle a variety of events. It is a balanced machine that won't break the bank.

Pros:

• Balanced Performance: The Celica offers a good balance of power, handling, and affordability.
• Easy to Handle: Its FWD layout makes it relatively easy to control, even for inexperienced drivers.
• Versatile: The Celica is a capable performer on a variety of tracks and in a variety of events.
• Upgradable: There are numerous aftermarket parts available for the Celica, allowing you to improve its performance over time.

Cons:

• Not Exceptional: The Celica doesn't excel in any particular area, which can make it less exciting than some other options.
• FWD Limitations: The FWD layout can lead to understeer in some situations, especially when cornering at high speeds.

Nissan Silvia

The Nissan Silvia, particularly the S13 or S15 models, is an excellent choice for those looking to dive into the world of drifting and RWD driving early on. While it might require a bit more skill to handle than the FWD options, the Silvia offers a rewarding driving experience and plenty of potential for customization. It is a drift-ready platform with tons of aftermarket support.

Pros:

• Drifting Potential: The Silvia is a natural drift car, thanks to its RWD layout and well-balanced chassis.
• Customization Options: There are countless aftermarket parts available for the Silvia, allowing you to create a unique and personalized drift machine.
• Stylish: The Silvia is a stylish and iconic car that looks great on the track.

Cons:

• Steep Learning Curve: The Silvia can be challenging to drive, especially for new players who are not familiar with RWD handling.
• Can be Expensive: Building a competitive drift Silvia can be expensive, as it requires significant investment in aftermarket parts.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

If you're looking for something with a bit more punch right from the start, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a fantastic choice. These cars offer all-wheel-drive (AWD) grip and turbocharged power, making them incredibly quick in a straight line and surprisingly nimble in the corners. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a powerhouse that's ready to dominate.

Pros:

• High Power Output: The Evo's turbocharged engine delivers impressive power, making it one of the quickest starting cars in the game.
• Excellent Grip: Its AWD system provides exceptional grip, allowing you to put the power down effectively in all conditions.
• Competitive: The Evo is a competitive car that can be used in a variety of events.

Cons:

• Higher Price: The Evo is more expensive than some other starting cars, which may make it less accessible to new players.
• Can be Unforgiving: The Evo's powerful engine and AWD system can make it less forgiving than some other cars, especially for inexperienced drivers.

Tuning and Upgrading Your Starting Car

Once you've chosen your starting car, don't forget to tune and upgrade it to maximize its performance. Even a relatively inexpensive car can become a formidable competitor with the right modifications. Here are a few key areas to focus on:

• Suspension: Upgrading your suspension will improve your car's handling and stability, allowing you to corner faster and maintain control in challenging situations.
• Tires: Investing in better tires will significantly improve your car's grip, allowing you to accelerate, brake, and corner more effectively.
• Engine: Upgrading your engine will increase your car's power output, allowing you to accelerate faster and reach higher top speeds.
• Weight Reduction: Reducing your car's weight will improve its acceleration, handling, and braking performance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best starting car in Gran Turismo 4 is a matter of personal preference and driving style. However, the cars listed above are all excellent choices that will give you a competitive edge in the early stages of the game. So, pick the car that appeals to you the most, tune it to your liking, and get ready to dominate the track! Have fun, and happy racing!