Upgrading your cars is essential for competing in higher classes and improving lap times. The 'Upgrade' menu in your garage allows you to modify various aspects of your vehicle.
Key Upgrade Categories:
- Engine:
- Intake, Fuel System, Ignition, Exhaust, Camshaft, Valves, Displacement, Pistons, Turbo/Supercharger: These directly impact horsepower, torque, and engine response. Prioritize these for straight-line speed.
- Engine Swap: Can drastically change a car's character and PI, often allowing for much higher performance.
- Platform and Handling:
- Brakes: Improve stopping power and consistency. Essential for technical tracks.
- Springs & Dampers (Suspension): Affect handling, body roll, and weight transfer.
- Anti-Roll Bars: Control body roll during cornering.
- Weight Reduction: Reduces overall car weight, improving acceleration, braking, and cornering. One of the most impactful upgrades.
- Drivetrain:
- Clutch, Transmission, Driveline, Differential: Affect power delivery and gear ratios. A race transmission allows for custom gear tuning.
- Tires and Rims:
- Tire Compound: The most crucial grip upgrade. 'Race' tires offer maximum grip but wear faster.
- Tire Width: Wider tires increase grip.
- Rims: Primarily cosmetic, but lighter rims reduce unsprung weight, slightly improving handling.
- Aero and Appearance:
- Front/Rear Aero: Adds downforce, improving high-speed cornering grip at the cost of some top speed. Often adjustable for tuning.
When upgrading, always keep an eye on the Performance Index (PI) to ensure you stay within the class limits for your target races. Balance power upgrades with handling and braking to create a well-rounded car.