Ferrari 296 GT3 Suzuka Hot Lap Analysis

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Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Suzuka in the Ferrari 296 GT3 driven by HYMO.

The Track

Suzuka Circuit, positioned in the Mie Prefecture of Japan, is a track revered for its technical complexity and distinctive figure-eight layout. Constructed in the early 1960s by Honda as a test facility, Suzuka quickly evolved into a celebrated racing circuit, spanning 5.807 kilometres with a total of 18 challenging turns, including the high-speed 130R and the intricate Spoon Curve.

The track is not just known for its demanding layout but also for hosting the prestigious Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix. This event consistently delivers thrilling races, marked by strategic battles and a showcase of driver skill, set against the backdrop of Suzuka's complex series of corners and straights.

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 the first corner complex. In this segment the community driver takes it a little cautious on the way in and then continues to trailbrake a little too deep into the corner. This allows the reference driver to get back on the power a little earlier, especially because their line is a little tighter at the point of getting back on the throttle. This improved exit gains the reference 0.1s over the community driver.

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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

Camber gain is an essential concept, especially in GT3 racing and sim racing platforms like Assetto Corsa Competizione. Camber gain refers to the change in wheel camber angle relative to the body roll of the car during cornering. As a car corners and experiences body roll, the suspension geometry ideally allows for an increase in negative camber on the loaded (outside) tyres. This camber gain helps maintain a larger contact patch of the tyre with the road, enhancing grip and stability through the corner.

The amount of camber gain is influenced by the suspension design, including aspects like the control arm lengths and angles, and the configuration of the steering knuckles. Properly set up, camber gain can significantly improve a car's cornering performance by optimising tyre contact with the track, crucial for navigating the high-speed turns and technical sections of a circuit as demanding as Suzuka. However, it's a delicate balance; too much negative camber can lead to reduced grip in straight-line scenarios and increased tyre wear, highlighting the importance of a well-considered suspension setup.

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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