Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT3 Barcelona Hot Lap Analysis

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Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Barcelona in the Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT3 driven by HYMO.

The Track

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, located in Montmeló, near the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, is a modern racing track renowned for its diverse configuration and challenging corners. Opened in 1991, the circuit stretches over 4.675 kilometres and features 16 turns, blending high-speed stretches with a series of technical sections that require precise driving and strategic car setup.

The circuit is not just known for its dynamic layout but also for hosting the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, an event that annually attracts a global audience. This prestigious race tests the mettle of drivers and teams alike, as they navigate the demanding track, which offers a comprehensive examination of car performance and driver skill.

Thankfully, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.

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Analysis

The analysis below uses the Track Titan platform to compare a HYMO reference hotlap in blue to one of the Track Titan community drivers through Segment 4. Although flat out in F1, in a GT3 car the famous Turn 3 is all about patience and timing the throttle application to try to carry momentum through the extremely long right. Comparing both drivers we see that they are both on the same line off throttle on entry. The reference driver commits to the throttle earlier than the community driver and is able to carry the speed by letting the car drift out wider on exit. The community driver tries to hug the inside line on the exit which is something you may consider doing with a high downforce F1 car when it is an easy flat out corner. However, since the corner is not flat out, the wider exit line enables earlier throttle application - which in this case is worth 0.08s.

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You can analyse every other turn in the Track Titan platform; see reference lap here.
You can also take it to the next level and compare it against your own driving, just sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.

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Sim Racing Top Tips

In GT3 racing and sim racing, such as in Assetto Corsa Competizione, setting the correct ride height is a crucial aspect of car setup, significantly affecting aerodynamic performance, tyre wear, and overall handling. Ride height, the distance between the car's chassis and the track surface, must be carefully balanced. A lower ride height generally improves aerodynamic efficiency by reducing drag and enhancing downforce, leading to better high-speed stability and cornering performance. However, it can also increase the risk of bottoming out, especially over kerbs or on tracks with significant elevation changes.

Conversely, a higher ride height can offer better clearance and reduce the chances of underbody damage, but it may also increase aerodynamic drag and decrease downforce, potentially compromising high-speed stability and grip. The optimal ride height setting depends on track characteristics, driving style, and specific race conditions. Teams must fine-tune this setup parameter to strike a balance between speed, stability, and the preservation of the car's components, ensuring competitive performance throughout the race.

Don't know what you can do to go faster? Use the HYMO hotlap to find out.

To see full lap analysis of your own driving, you can sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.

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