Obtaining Better B-Spec Stats ??

  • Thread starter LivingSoul
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Testing of:

B-spec Category is adopted while entering the race.
B-spec Category when entering the race is adopted.
http://www.geocities.jp/j8ba7yrg/gt4/english/category_4.html

The results of these tests have been replicated under similar conditions. A Citroen C3 1.6 '02 (default, oiled) was used for the A-1 collection and racing test. Points received were slightly different, but close enough to confirm the basic strategy for NTSC.

Previous tests using this method to collect track points were unsuccessful. I suspect this strategy may only be applied to the 7000 floating points, and no the 3000 track points. Further testing should clear up the confusion. I'm not sure how to set up the test conditions just yet.

Okay, now I can take a look at the A-1/A-2 A-spec Test.
_______________________

Scripted A-1 Collection on Nurburgring (unconfirmed)

Citroen C3 1.6 '02
default, oil changed
116HP 9.198 PWR

Restart Lineup 1
Nurburgring Family Cup
Honda S600 '64
Suzuki Alto Lapin Turbo '02
Toyota Sports 800 '65
Toyota Prius G Touring Selection (J) '03
Suzuki MR Wagon Sport '04
​
Difficulty -2 Cruise 1.510 20'35.903 568 12 6 5
Retry -2 Steady Running 19'56.043 598 12 6 5
 
A-1/A-2 Testing of:

Check B-spec Category by A-spec Point Value
we can check B-spec category by A-spec point
http://www.geocities.jp/j8ba7yrg/gt4/english/category_0.html


Citroen C3 1.6 '02
default, oil changed
+Racing Chip (120HP)

Tested on Tsukuba for either 13 track points (A-1), or lots of A-2 floating points.

Ballast 32 = A-1
Ballast 31 = A-2

Entered in Special Condition Hall - Rally d' Umbria (Easy)
Against Renault 5 Turbo '80
A-spec points = 164 pts and below for A-1 subclass (verified)
A-spec points = 163 pts and above for A-2 subclass (verified)

Reverse the process

Toyota Voltz S '02
default, oil changed (155 pts)
Ballast 75 = 164 pts
Ballast 74 = 163 pts

Tested on Tsukuba for either 13 track points (A-1), or lots of A-2 floating points.

Ballast 75 (164 pts) = A-1 (verified)
Ballast 74 (163 pts) = A-2 (verified)
 
B-1/B-2 Testing of:

Check B-spec Category by A-spec Point Value
we can check B-spec category by A-spec point
http://www.geocities.jp/j8ba7yrg/gt4/english/category_0.html

B-1 (only) Points collected using Crossfire Script
B-spec: 939/12/9/9

A-spec Points are tested on a more complete save.

Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
default, oil changed
S3 Tires
A-spec Test (Normal) = 54 pts

Ballast 1 - 6 = A-spec: 55 pts (verified)
A-spec Test (Hard) with 6 Ballast = 174 pts (verified)

Tested against 0 points on Super Speedway (Crossfire races), or lots of B-2 floating points.

Ballast 6 = B-1
Ballast 5 = B-2

Added:

C-1/C-2 Testing

Dodge Viper GTSR Concept '00 from Crossfire races

1254 1295 2000 Dodge Viper GTS R Concept
1295 * R3 1.0594 = 1371.923
C-2 anticipated around 1375
A-spec Test at Tsukuba Wet Race (Normal) = 28 pts.

Dodge Viper GTSR Concept '00 with R3 Tires
Used to collect most C-1 Points from Nurburgring

Fine Tuning:

Weight Reduction: Stage 1; -133 kg
Ballast Weight: 127 = C-2
Ballast Weight: 128 = C-1
Ballast Weight 126 through 131 = A-spec: 27 pts in Saleen Test
 
I'm getting really close to nailing down some pretty solid car value numbers for B-spec subclasses, but I've got a nasty offset problem. For a while now I've been adjusting my B-spec lines along Wild Cobra's Car Value lists. Many of the early adjustments were made based on Prize Car B-spec data provided by the Japanese Author. More recently I've been running my own tests, mostly on new cars available for purchase.

The problem is that I always oil my cars. I have plans to prepare 0.0km test cars without oil changes, but anything I intend to race is oiled. In fact, I try to always oil any car I enter. Wild Cobra lists tentative information about oil changes, but I haven't tried offsetting the math. Also, the English translations of the Japanese Prize Car data indicates that the oil was not changed for the tests. So... everything is slightly off, and I'm not sure how to align the numbers.
 
D-1/D-2 Testing of:

Check B-spec Category by A-spec Point Value
we can check B-spec category by A-spec point
http://www.geocities.jp/j8ba7yrg/gt4/english/category_0.html

Car Values used for calculations are available at:

A-Spec Point Data; Values, Races, and Modifications
Author: Wild Cobra Z28
https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?t=70995

Choosing Tires:
1508 1557 2000 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 D-1
Speed 12, 1557 * R2 1.0434 = 1625; D-1
Speed 12, 1557 * R3 1.0594 = 1649; D-2
1572 1623 2001 Pagani Zonda LM Race Car (D-1, oiled)
1598 1650 1997 BMW McLaren F1 GTR Race Car (D-2, oiled)

TVR Speed 12 '00
Oil Changed
R2 Tires
Wing Added

Upgrade to D-2 with Downforce
Downforce: Front 7, Rear 15
*default is Front 0, Rear 10

Downgrade with Ballast Weight
Ballast 3 = D-1
Ballast 2 = D-2

NTSC North Amerian Lineups for D Class Vehicles do not match the Japanese Version.
A similar method was used to produce a similar solution for D-1/D-2 testing.

*1 We reset PS2, load the game and enter the 1st race.

182 pts 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
1870 1931 1989 Nissan R89C Race Car
1529 1579 2001 Chevrolet Camaro LM Race Car
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car
1746 1803 1998 Nissan R390 GT1 Race Car
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
Average 1844

178 pts 1782 Circuit de la Sarth 24 Hour I
1808 1867 2001 Audi R8 Race Car
1544 1594 2000 Chevrolet Corvette C5R (C5)
1870 1931 1989 Nissan R89C Race Car
1801 1859 2004 Pescarolo Playstation C60
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
Average 1840

Other Restart Lineups
200 pts 1818 Fuji 1000 km
200 pts 1818 Infineon World Sports
200 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarth 24 Hour II
200 pts 1880 Gran Turismo World Championship
200 pts 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
200 pts 1880 Like the Wind
200 pts 1825 World Circuit Tour
4 pts 1496 Dream Car Championship
 
D-1/D-2 Layer 2 Lineups

TVR Speed 12 '00
Oil changed
R2 Tires
Wing Added, Downforce: Front 7, Rear 15
Ballast Weight 3 = D-1

Cancel 1818 Fuji 1000 km
166 pts 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
1598 1650 1997 BMW McLaren F1 GTR Race Car
1726 1782 1998 AMG Mercedes CLK-GTR Race Car
1758 1815 1970 Toyota 7 Race Car
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
1797 1855 1999 BMW V12 LMR Race Car


Cancel 1818 Fuji 1000 km
164 pts 1782 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour I
1643 1696 1998 Panoz Esperante GTR-1 Race Car
1544 1594 2000 Chevrolet Corvette C5R (C5)
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
1870 1931 1989 Nissan R89C Race Car
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car


Cancel 1818 Fuji 1000 km
149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II
1424 1470 1969 Ford GT40 Race Car
1795 1853 1991 Mazda 787B Race Car
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car
1861 1922 1988 Jaguar XJR-9 Race Car
1791 1849 1992 Peugeot 905 Race Car

Cancel 1818 Fuji 1000 km
178 pts 1818 Infineon World Sports
1643 1696 1998 Panoz Esperante GTR-1 Race Car
1544 1594 2000 Chevrolet Corvette C5R (C5)
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
1797 1855 1999 BMW V12 LMR Race Car

Cancel 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
180 pts 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
1758 1815 1970 Toyota 7 Race Car
1888 1950 1992 Nissan R92CP Race Car
1797 1855 1999 BMW V12 LMR Race Car
1598 1650 1997 BMW McLaren F1 GTR Race Car
1795 1853 1991 Mazda 787B Race Car

Cancel 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II

Cancel 1782 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour I
180 pts 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II

Cancel 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II
164 pts 1782 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour I
178 pts 1818 Infineon World Sports
149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II

Cancel 1818 Infineon World Sports
166 pts 1786 Super Speedway 150 mile
164 pts 1782 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour I
149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II
178 pts 1818 Infineon World Sports


Preview 1880 Like the Wind
137 pts 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
1726 1782 1998 AMG Mercedes CLK-GTR Race Car
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car
1543 1593 2002 Ford GT LM Race Car
1746 1803 1998 Nissan R390 GT1 Race Car
1529 1579 2001 Chevrolet Camaro LM Race Car

Preview 1880 Like the Wind
131 pts 1825 World Circuit Tour
1568 1619 2002 Nissan GT-R Concept LM Race Car
1726 1782 1998 AMG Mercedes CLK-GTR Race Car
1797 1855 1999 BMW V12 LMR Race Car
1795 1853 1991 Mazda 787B Race Car
1738 1794 2004 Gillet Vertigo Race Car


Preview 1983 Formula GT
150 pts 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
1462 1509 2001 Mazda RX-7 LM Race Car
1808 1867 2001 Audi R8 Race Car
1795 1853 1991 Mazda 787B Race Car
1884 1945 1989 Minolta Toyota 88C-V Race Car
1554 1604 2004 Ford GT LM Race Car Spec-II

Preview 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
137 pts 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
1897 1958 1989 Sauber Mercedes C9 Race Car
1543 1593 2002 Ford GT LM Race Car
1746 1803 1998 Nissan R390 GT1 Race Car
1529 1579 2001 Chevrolet Camaro LM Race Car
1726 1782 1998 AMG Mercedes CLK-GTR Race Car


Suggested Testing Sequences:

First: 178 pts 1782 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour I
Then: 149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II

First: Preview 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars
Then: 137 pts 1819 Gran Turismo All Stars

First: Preview 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II
Then: 149 pts 1863 Circuit de la Sarthe 24 Hour II


Notes:

I have been unable to find a lineup that matches the lineups on the Japanese version.
Loading a race in Arcade Mode causes major changes to the lineups.

Preview 4 Times: Endurance Hall - Super Speedway 150 Miles
76 pts Endurance Hall - Super Speedway 150 Miles
1529 1579 2001 Chevrolet Camaro LM Race Car
1738 1794 2004 Gillet Vertigo Race Car
1543 1593 2002 Ford GT LM Race Car
1796 1854 1999 Toyota GT-One Race Car (TS020)
1797 1855 1999 BMW V12 LMR Race Car


This would seem like the kind of documentation that would allow people to select easy lineups for their races. Or possibly select a particular lineup for an A-spec 200 race. Searching and reviewing the pinned threads isn't helping to turn up any specific information on lineups. Does anyone know where I can find a good link?
 
Selecting an A-1 Category 0.0km Test Car

Desired Properties:
  • A maximum A-spec value equal or less than the VW Lupo 1.4, Scion xA, and Citroen C3 1.6. Cars with a greater value will become A-2 vehicles if the oil is changed, and this may lead to confusion.
  • Able to collect all A-1 subcategory Floating Points with default settings. Should have a value near the top of the A-1 subcategory.
  • Available for purchase. Preferably, not too expensive.
  • Able to compete for Battle Points in every race. Prefer 5th place rank or better in every race.
  • Able to compete against the Difficulty 0 restart lineup for that car value.
  • Have properties that are identical to PAL and Japanese versions.
A-1 Japanese Lineup for Nissan March 12c 5 door
Suzuki Wagon R RR '98
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 4WD '97
Nissan Cube X '98
Toyota Vitz F '99
Honda Element '03
Nissan March 12c 5 door '03

Nissan March 12c 5 door '03, Japan, 90HP, 10.129 PWR, Umbria Easy = not available

Nissan Micra '03, 10950, 90HP, 10.018 PWR, Umbria Easy = 200 pts

A-1 Restart Lineup for Nissan Micra
Toyota Prius G (J) '02
Toyota Prius G Touring Selection (J) '03
Honda Beat '91
Toyota Vitz F '99
Honda S800 '66
Nissan Micra '03

4 1'49.287 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
5 1'52.623 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
5 1'10.362 Beginner Course Normal
5 1'09.624 Beginner Course Reverse
* Abandoned because of unfavorable lineup.


Citroen C3 1.6 '02, 18130, 110H, 9.657 PWR, Umbria Easy = 182 pts

A-1 Restart Lineup for Citroen C3
Honda Beat Version Z '93
Honda Beat '91
Toyota Vitz F '99
Mitsubishi i '03
Autobianchi A112 Abarth '79
Citroen C3 1.6 '02

5 1'50.337 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
5 1'51.267 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
5 1'09.205 Beginner Course Normal
6 1'10.512 Beginner Course Reverse
6 2'00.912 Motorland Normal
5 1'56.490 Motorland Reverse
*Abandoned because of poor performance. Unable to pass against restart lineup. Out of control in some corners.


Scion xA '03, 16000, 110HP, 9.295 PWR

5 1'50.448 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
6 1'54.213 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
* Abandoned. Same car value, and same poor lineup as the Citroen C3. Doesn't perform as well as the C3.


VW New Beetle 2.0 '00, 25980, 115HP, 10.709 PWR

A-1 Restart Lineup for VW New Beetle 2.0
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 2WD '97
Honda Beat Version Z '93
Honda Beat Version F '92
Suzuki Cappuccino (EA11R) '91
Nissan March G# '99
VW New Beetle 2.0 '00

6 1'50.785 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
6 1'52.374 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
* Abandoned because of very poor performance.


Citroen Xsara VTR '03, 21850, 108HP, 10.919 PWR, Umbria Easy = 188 pts

A-1 Restart Lineup for Citroen Xsara VTR
Suzuki MR Wagon Sport '04
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 2WD '97
Suzuki Kei Works '02
Suzuki Alto Works RS-Z '97
Volvo 240 GLT Estate '88
Citroen Xsara VTR '03

6 1'53.282 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
6 1'54.638 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
5 1'09.626 Beginner Course Normal
6 1'11.423 Beginner Course Reverse
3 1'55.590 Motorland Normal
3 1'55.865 Motorland Reverse
* Abandoned because of poor rank in these races. Performance was very good on all Original Circuits.


Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 Sport X Version '02, 14950, 99HP, 10.358 PWR, Umbria Easy = 200 pts

A-1 Restart Lineup for Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 Sport X Version
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 4WD '97
Nissan Skyline 1500 Deluxe (S50D-1) '63
Nissan Cube EX (FF/CVT) '02
Honda S800 '66
Mitsubishi Minica Dangan ZZ '89
Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 Sport X Version '02

4 1'51.461 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
3 1'52.682 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
6 1'10.205 Beginner Course Normal
4 1'10.015 Beginner Course Reverse
3 1'57.654 Motorland Normal
3 1'56.611 Motorland Reverse
* Abandoned because of poor handling. Frequently out of control. Car is ugly and I don't like looking at it.


Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01, 17960, 90HP, 11.145 PWR

A-1 Restart Lineup for Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4
Suzuki Alto Lapin Turbo '02
Daihatsu Storia CX 2WD '98
Nissan Skyline 1500 Deluxe (S50D-1) '63
Suzuki MR Wagon Sport '04
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 2WD '97
Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01


5 1'52.850 Autumn Ring Mini Normal
5 1'54.735 Autumn Ring Mini Reverse
3 1'09.803 Beginner Course Normal
4 1'10.842 Beginner Course Reverse
2 1'58.219 Motorland Normal
2 1'59.024 Motorland Reverse

The Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01 has been selected for addition testing in City Courses. I still need to check Hong Kong Normal, and Grid start races to make sure there are no surprises, but I anticipate this car will perform nicely.

The Corsa Comfort performed very well in the short course tests. It is occasionally out of control in high speed corners but was very stable compared to most other vehicles. Only the Micra, and and especially the Xsara, handled these difficult tracks better than the Corsa Comfort.

The B-spec driver was especially anxious to pass with the Corsa Comfort. It has adequate power for the task, but the main advantage seems to be a natural tendency to handle corners well. The B-spec Driver feels confident in the control of the vehicle and will attempt inside and outside corner passes with a steady pace. Usually I need to tune the weight balance, tires, suspension, or downforce to get a vehicle this responsive.

The B-spec Driver likes to drive the Micra as well. I suspect this is one of the reasons the Micra collects points so quickly. I'm hoping the Corsa Comfort will also be a good point collector. I still need to perform some Free Run tests for Machine points to see how it compares with other vehicles, and a 598 point collection on Nurburgring. I want to make sure it is capable of earning all of the points in the subcategory. If it isn't powerful enough to collect all of the A-1 floating points, then it is not suitable for the testing of missing points on Suzuka Circuit West.
 
Point Collection Testing of Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Car : Default, 0.0km, No oil change
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

Reference: Category of Prize Car (Category)

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01, 90HP, 11.145 PWR
Category: A-1
Time: 21'35 (2nd lap -0.352)
B-spec Skill: 355
Machine Skill: 11
Course Skill: 5
Battle Skill: --

Japanese Data: Prize Car - Category and Other Cars
Volkswagen Lupo 1.4 '02 100HP 9.359 PWR A-1 21'19 355 11 5 Domestic B License (Bronze)
Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Hemi Quad Cab '04 346HP 6.915 PWR A-1 19'44 382 11 6

Family Cup at Nurburgring Nordschleife
Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01, default, no oil change, 0.0km
* Scripted for NTSC/NA. Overtake On, Pit Off, no adjustments needed

A-1 Restart Lineup for Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4: Difficulty -1 (B-spec: 0/0/0/0)
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 4WD '97
Honda S600 '65
Toyota Sports 800 '65
Ford Ka '01
Suzuki Wagon R RR '98
Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

Lineup 1 Level 1 Cruise 1st 21'18.017 556 11 6 5
Lineup 1 Level 0 Cruise 1st 21'29.914 568 11 6 5
Lineup 1 Level -1 Slow 1st 21'58.994 575 11 6 5 (saved)

Nurburgring Nordschleife: Difficulty 0, Pace 3 - Steady: 598 12 6 5
(20'31.038 vs Prius G Touring Selection in next race - strange, it was only a Prius G when I tried again, can time influence the lineup slightly?)

I think the Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 will be a very good car for Category A-1.

Floating Point Test (7000/100/70/70) on Suzuka Circuit West Course
Default settings, No Oil Change, 0.0km
Difficulty 0, Pace 3 - Steady, Overtake On: 1st, 4'03.215

In theory, this Rank and Time will confirm that all points in the A-1 subcategory have been collected.


Update for 2nd Scripted race:

It turns out that the Prius G Touring Selection can be expected in the 2nd lineup at difficulty 0. The important factor in the 2nd A-1 race is to run a Steady pace which will clean up the Floating points not easily collected with the Slow pace used during the 1st race. The Hybrid Prius is fast on the 1st lap on Nurburgring, but slow on the 2nd lap when it's batteries are low. This often allows for an interesting race on Nurburgring or other long, fast tracks.

So far the restart lineups have remained consistent from 0 to 598 points.

A-1 Restart 2nd Lineup for Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4: Difficulty 0
Daihatsu Storia CX 2WD '98
Ford Ka '01
Suzuki Wagon R RR '98
Toyota Prius G Touring Selection (J) '03
Daihatsu Move SR-XX 2WD '97
Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

Nurburgring Family Cup: Reset Lineup 2, Level 0, Steady, 1st (7.080), 20'32.851, 598/12/6/5
 
Maximum A-spec Car Value for B-spec Subcategory A-1: 0842 to 0843

Calculated range is between 842.74 and 843.08, but this precision is subject to rounding apparent in the initial data. Example:

Mini Cooper '02, new value 0841, Umbria Easy = 166 pts
VW Polo GTi '01, new value 0841, Umbria Easy = 165 pts


Estimating Maximum Subcategory A-1

Toyota Vitz RS 1.5, new value 0844, Umbria Easy = 162 pts
Mazda MX-5 Miata 1600 NR-A (NB, J), new 0869 * N3 0.9709 = 843.71, Umbria Easy = 162 pts
VW New Beetle 2.0, new value 0821 * R1 1.0269 = 843.08, Umbria Easy = 163 pts
Peugeot 106 S16, new value 0868 * N3 0.9709 = 842.74, Umbria Easy = 164 pts
Lexus IS200, new value 0907 * N1 0.928 = 841.70, Umbria Easy = 165 pts
Mazda Demio Sport '03, new value 0828 * Oil 1.016 = 841.248, Umbria Easy = 166 pts

* The increase in value from an oil change is estimated by Wild Cobra Z28 at 1.016.

Reference: A-spec Values by Wild Cobra Z28
Reference: Check B-spec Categories by Japanese Author


Maximum A-spec Car Value for B-spec Subcategory A-2: 0979 to 0980

Estimating the maximum of Category A-2 has been difficult. Results frequently conflict, but are still reasonably accurate. These tests create doubts about the accuracy of some of the conversions in addition to concern about rounding of the initial values.

Default Vehicles (see Japanese Prize Car data)

Suzuki Concept S2 '02
0978 * default = A-2
Umbria Easy = 29 pts
Umbria Normal = 196 pts

Nissan mm-R Cup Car '01
0981 * default = B-1
Umbria Easy = 22 pts
Umbria Normal = 189 pts

Oiled New Vehicles

Audi S3 '02
0966 * oil = 981.456 = A-2
Umbria Easy = 26 pts
Umbria Normal = 193 pts

Hommel Berlinette R/S Coupe '99
0967 * oil = 982.472 = B-1
Umbria Easy = 25 pts
Umbria Normal = 192 pts

Default Vehicles with Tire Calculations

Infinity G35 Coupe '03
1055 * N1 = 979.04
Umbria Easy = 27 pts
Umbria Normal = 194 pts

Peugeot 206 RC '03
0954 * R1 = 979.6626
Umbria Easy = 26 pts
Umbria Normal = 193 pts

Ford Focus ST 170 '03
0926 * R3 = 981.0044
Umbria Easy = 26 pts
Umbria Normal = 193 pts

Acura CL 3.2 Type-S '03
1010 * N3 = 980.609
Umbria Easy = 25 pts
Umbria Normal = 192 pts

Nissan 350Z Roadster (Z33) '03
1057 * N1 = 980.896
Umbria Easy = 25 pts
Umbria Normal = 192 pts

Alfa Romeo GT 3.2 V6 24V '04
1011 * N3 = 981.5799
Umbria Easy = 25 pts
Umbria Normal = 192 pts

VW Golf V GTi '05
0973 * S3 = 981.8543
Umbria Easy = 24 pts
Umbria Normal = 191 pts

Result from these tests indicate that A-spec math can be used to estimate tire modifications or increase in value due to an oil change. The method is only accurate within a point or two, but this is still remarkable progress.
 
I'm not sure how I want to handle this just yet, but testing of B and C vehicles is awkward when the 3rd lineup is required for consistent results. I was reviewing some of the tests performed by the Japanese Author, and tried some of the solutions which were abandoned in the Japanese Version. I think I have found a reasonable solution for NTSC/NA versions.

Special Condition Events - Tsukuba Wet Race (Easy)
Restart Lineup 1 opposition is: Nissan Skyline GT-R V-spec II Nur '02
This vehicle is in the 5th lineup on the Japanese version of this event.

1078 1113 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR
1079 1114 2002 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II Nur (R34)

The Skyline is rated slightly higher, but the results are similar enough to provide testing along the lines of 2 subcategories.

The main disadvantage of using this testing procedure is breaking from the Japanese standard of measure in these classes. However, many of the lineups need to be adjusted anyway, so we may as well take advantage of easy access to restart lineup 1. Opinions are welcome as I try to develop a standard for documenting test results.

A minor advantage to the test against the Lancer is that the point line and category line for B-1/B-2 testing are very close together. The test against the Skyline provides a B-spec line pretty much in the middle of the A-spec point.

A major advantage to using Tsukuba Wet Race (Easy) as a test race for B-spec Categories A-2/B-1, and B-1/B-2, is that only an A License is required to perform the test.


Results of previous tests:

Special Condition Hall - Rally d' Umbria (Normal)
Opposition: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR

Test of Category A-2/B-1

Hommel Berlinette R/S Coupe '99
Default, oiled
Ballast Weight 4 = A-2
Ballast Weight 3 = B-1

Ballast Range 3 through 7 = 193 pts.

Test of Category B-1/B-2

Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
default, oil changed
S3 Tires

Ballast 6 = B-1
Ballast 5 = B-2

Ballast Range 1 through 6 = A-spec: 55 pts


Alternative Test for NTSC North American Version

Special Condition Hall - Tsukuba Wet Race (Easy)
Opposition: Nissan Skyline GT-R V-spec II Nur '02

Test of Category A-2/B-1

Hommel Berlinette R/S Coupe '99
Default, oiled
Ballast Weight 4 = A-2
Ballast Weight 3 = B-1

Ballast Range 0 through 4 = 193 pts.

Test of Category B-1/B-2

Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
default, oil changed
S3 Tires
Ballast 6 = B-1
Ballast 5 = B-2

Ballast Range 4 through 10 = A-spec: 56 pts


Possible Category Tests
All tests use the restart opposition.

Special Condition Hall - Capri Rally (Easy)
Opposition: Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione '91

Test of Category A-2/B-1

Hommel Berlinette R/S Coupe '99
Default, oiled
Ballast Weight 4 = A-2
Ballast Weight 3 = B-1

Ballast Range 2 through 6 = 61 pts.


Special Condition Hall - Capri Rally (Normal)
Opposition: Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi sp.C '04
Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi Spec C (GD, Type-II) '4

Test of Category B-1/B-2

Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
default, oil changed
S3 Tires

Ballast 6 = B-1
Ballast 5 = B-2

Ballast Range 2 through 8 = 70 pts


Special Condition Hall - Capri Rally (Hard)
Opposition: Subaru Impreza Rally Car '03

Test of Category B-1/B-2
Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
default, oil changed
S3 Tires
Ballast 6 = B-1
Ballast 5 = B-2
Ballast Range 0 through 6 = 191 pts

Special Condition Hall - Capri Rally (Hard)
Opposition: Subaru Impreza Rally Car '03

Test of Category B-2/C1
Clio 387 Tuned for B-2 Racing
Ballast 13 = B-2
Ballast 12 = C-1
Ballast Range 11 through 16 = 54 pts
 
Ah Ha! The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR has been hiding on George V Rally (Normal) all along. NTSC North American players can substitute this race for Rally d' Umbria (Normal) and use the Japanese A-spec values for A-2 and B-1 testing.

Summary of Opposition:
* NTSC North American Version
* Special Condition Events
* No Tire Restrictions
* Reset of the PS2, enter the 1st race

Rally d' Umbria; Umbria Rally
Costa di Amalfi; Capri Rally
George V Paris; George V Rally
Tsukuba Circuit - Wet; Tsukuba Wet Race

Umbria Rally (Easy) - Renault 5 Turbo '80, A-1:164, A-2:26
Capri Rally (Easy) - Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione '91, A-2:61
George V Rally (Easy) - Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione '91, A-2:61
Tsukuba Wet Race (Easy) - Nissan Skyline GT-R V-spec II Nur '02, A-2:193, B-1:56

Umbria Rally (Normal) - Mitsubishi Starion 4WD Rally Car '84, B-1:157 ,B-2:20
Capri Rally (Normal) - Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi sp.C '04, B-1:70
George V Rally (Normal) - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR, A-2:193, B-1:55
Tsukuba Wet Race (Normal) - Saleen S7 '02, B-2:164, C-1:27

Umbria Rally (Hard) - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Rally Car, B-1:174, B-2:37
Capri Rally (Hard) - Subaru Impreza Rally Car '03, B-1:191, B-2:54
George V Rally (Hard) - Renault 5 Maxi Turbo Rally Car '85, B-2:90
Tsukuba Wet Race (Hard) - Audi R8 '01
 
Maximizing Machine Points

Tuning test of the Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

Reference: Category of Prize Car (Category)

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
Default
90HP, 11.145 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 200 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 21'35
B-spec Skill: 355
Machine Skill: 11
Course Skill: 5
Battle Skill: --

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
BW 21, NA1, Semi Racing Exhaust
113HP, 9.055 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'18, B-spec:360/11/5/0 (Cruise) *
* Pace is always 1 - Slow Down, except for this session
Time: 20'46, B-spec:371/11/6/0 (Slow)

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
S1, NA1, Racing Chip, Sports Exhaust
115HP, 8.701 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'52, B-spec:372/11/6/0

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
S1, WR1, NA1, Sports Exhaust
110HP, 8.493 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'52, B-spec:373/11/6/0

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
BW 21, Oil Change, S1, NA1, Sports Exhaust
116HP, 8.787 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'52, B-spec:374/11/6/0


Testing the Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Hemi Quad Cab '04
* Just curious, not a practical choice for racing Family Cups

Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Hemi Quad Cab '04
Default (for comparison with Japanese Data)
Umbria (Easy): 200 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 19'41, B-spec:383/12/6/0

NA2Max = NA2, Oil Change, Racing Exhaust, Racing Chip, Weight Reduction: Stage 3
* Could not afford the NA3 starting with only 110,000 Credits

NA2Max +S1 192 pts, Time: 17'55, B-spec:388/12/6/0
NA2Max +S2 184 pts (did not test)
NA2Max +S3 177 pts, Time: 17'34, B-spec:384/12/6/0


Notes: BW is used to denote Ballast Weight, for these tests the ballast is always centered at 0.

Update: Wow, 3rd try. Just starting to get a feel for the lineups. Check it out:

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
Oil Change, S1, NA1, Sports Exhaust (BW 21)
116HP, 8.787 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Weight 21 -45 Difficulty - 2 Slow
8.843 MOV, Time: 21'16.079
B-spec:589/12/6/5

Perhaps it is possible to collect all A-1 points in a single race. I had almost given up on this quest.

Strange, the lineup changed on me. Now I can't find that other race. No matter, I found something a little better.

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
Oil Change, S1, NA1, Sports Exhaust
Weight 21 0, Difficulty -3, Slow
Time: 21'16.254, B-spec:594/12/6/5

I think I've been giving up on races too soon. The Corsa took the lead about the middle of the 1st lap. Either that, or it's possible to have a score of 164 and still earn some A-2 points.
 
Success!

B-spec:598/12/6/5 Category A-1 Collected in a Single Race

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Family Cup : Nurburgring Nordschleife

Difficulty -3 Restart Lineup
Daihatsu Storia CX 4WD '98
Honda S600 '64
Toyota Sports 800 '65
Ford Ka '01
Suzuki Wagon R RR '98
Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
Oil Change, S1, NA1, Sports Exhaust (BW 21)
116HP, 8.787 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1

Ballast Weight 21 at -47
Difficulty -3, Pace 1 - Slow
Time: 21'11.984

B-spec Skill: 598
Machine Skill: 12
Course Skill: 6
Battle Skill: 5
B-spec:598/12/6/5

Is this race good enough?

Testing of Stray Fractions

One Family Cup Race at Tsukuba Circuit
Same settings as above, Pace 4 - Fast
B-spec:611/12/6/6

I seem to remember that a battle skill of 6 from 2 tracks is difficult to obtain without collecting all battle points. I could try estimating the accuracy of this test, but only a hard milestone score like 7375 will confirm this race as a complete collection. However, Machine points are easy enough to confirm:

Reset to B-spec:598/12/6/5

Opel Speedster '00 - default
Practice on Nurburgring
4 laps, 37'25, B-spec:1077/24/14/5
+1 lap, 9'24, B-spec:1089/25/14/5

A Machine Skill of 25 confirms that all Machine points were collected for A-1 and A-2, so the Corsa race must have collected all machine points for A-1. Machine points are generally more difficult to collect in a single race than Floating Battle points.

This was not what I was expecting from a high scoring A-1 race. The Corsa took the lead on the straight section going uphill on the 1st lap and the other cars never got very close after that. This lineup presented interesting passing during the early sections of the race. The hard sports tires and slow pace encouraged the opponents to pass the Corsa when it slowed down for corners. I suspect that the extra passing helped increase the bonus for machine points during this race.
 
Category A-2 Car Testing

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

Credits HP_ PWR Time: B-spec M C B Oiled._ A-spec Used New A-spec Year Car Name
21120 183HP 6.947 20'08 430 10 6 0 0922.53 85 pts 0879 0908 99 pts 2003 Pontiac Vibe GT '03
23500 178HP 7.802 20'06 437 10 6 0 0934.72 73 pts 0891 0920 87 pts 2003 Mazda Mazda 6 5-door '03
18980 165HP 7.088 20'23 424 10 6 0 0934.72 73 pts 0891 0920 87 pts 2002 Mazda Protégé '02
38860 161HP 7.131 19'50 432 10 6 0 0938.78 69 pts 0895 0924 83 pts 2003 MG TF160 '03
32750 173HP 7.167 19'47 445 11 6 0 0940.82 66 pts 0897 0926 80 pts 2003 Ford Focus ST 170 '03
23500 163HP 6.623 19'40 434 10 6 0 0944.88 61 pts 0901 0930 76 pts 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1800 RS (NB, J) '04
21800 144HP 6.813 19'30 440 10 6 0 0945.90 61 pts 0902 0931 75 pts 2002 Toyota MR2 Spyder '02
30370 197HP 7.610 20'03 441 11 6 0 0948.94 58 pts 0905 0934 72 pts 2000 Citroen Xantia 3.0i V6 Exclusive '00
33020 164HP 8.647 20'07 430 10 6 0 0950.98 57 pts 0907 0936 71 pts 2004 BMW 120d '04
38910 204HP 7.562 20'04 425 10 6 0 0950.98 55 pts 0907 0936 70 pts 2001 VW Bora V6 4Motion '01
26790 163HP 6.884 19'44 446 11 6 0 0951.99 55 pts 0908 0937 70 pts 2002 Mini Cooper-S '02
44560 294HP 7.645 20'38 402 10 6 0 0955.04 52 pts 0910 0940 66 pts 2003 Chevrolet SSR '03
41060 122HP 5.848 18'56 452 11 7 0 0955.04 52 pts 0910 0940 66 pts 2000 Lotus Elise '00
20080 190HP 6.120 19'48 441 11 6 0 0955.04 51 pts 0910 0940 66 pts 2002 Toyota Corolla Runx Z Aerotourer '02
33020 176HP 7.617 19'44 447 11 7 0 0957.07 50 pts 0912 0942 64 pts 2001 Hyundai Tiburon GT '01
42830 210HP 7.324 19'46 450 11 7 0 0962.15 44 pts 0917 0947 59 pts 2003 Citroen C5 V6 Exclusive '03
20500 188HP 6.313 20'30 426 10 6 0 0962.15 45 pts 0917 0947 59 pts 2001 Toyota WiLL VS '01
36530 211HP 7.153 19'43 447 11 7 0 0968.25 38 pts 0923 0953 53 pts 2003 Opel Vectra 3.2 V6 '03
29090 177HP 6.271 19'35 448 11 7 0 0969.26 37 pts 0924 0954 52 pts 2003 Peugeot 206 RC '03
23900 199HP 6.617 19'39 450 11 7 0 0970.28 36 pts 0925 0955 51 pts 2001 Nissan Primera 20V '01
51190 219HP 6.606 19'36 452 11 7 0 0972.31 35 pts 0927 0957 49 pts 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider 3.0i V6 24V '01
29700 172HP 6.002 19'48 446 11 6 0 0973.33 33 pts 0928 0958 48 pts 2002 Clio Renault Sport 2.0 16V '02
25300 220HP 6.320 19'33 451 11 7 0 0976.38 31 pts 0931 0961 45 pts 2002 Honda Accord Euro-R '02
44690 147HP 5.795 19'05 454 11 7 0 0977.39 29 pts 0932 0962 44 pts 2000 Opel Speedster '00
35050 385HP 5.532 19'16 461 11 7 0 0978.41 29 pts 0933 0963 44 pts 2003 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning '03
24740 202HP 6.210 19'35 449 11 7 0 0979.42 28 pts 0934 0964 43 pts 2004 Acura RSX Type-S '04
24980 183HP 6.445 19'39 446 11 6 0 0980.44 26 pts 0935 0965 41 pts 2004 Seat Ibiza Cupra '04
90360 203HP 6.363 19'40 441 11 6 0 0981.46 26 pts 0936 0966 41 pts 1982 Audi Quattro '82
41070 213HP 6.663 19'25 447 11 6 0 0981.46 26 pts 0936 0966 41 pts 2002 Audi S3 '02
- vehicles beyond this level will become B-1 when the oil is changed
24000 210HP 6.234 19'25 444 11 6 0 0987.55 19 pts 0941 0972 34 pts 2003 Mazda RX-8 '03
27500 210HP 6.329 19'41 437 10 6 0 0987.55 20 pts 0941 0972 34 pts 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type E (J) '03


The cars listed below were tuned to receive 27 pts from the Umbria Easy test.
The cars will score 26 points if 1 kg of ballast weight is removed.
All cars were equipped with S1 Tires.

Horse PWR Time B-spec M C B Car Name - Parts and Settings
217HP 5.811 19'31 457 11 7 0 Ford Focus ST 170 '03 S1 Tires Turbo1 Ballast 21
201HP 5.439 19'18 457 11 7 0 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1800 RS (NB, J) '04 S1 Tires Turbo1 Ballast 11
195HP 5.780 19'31 458 11 7 0 Mini Cooper-S '02 S1 Tires NA2 Ballast 8
148HP 5.076 18'38 462 11 7 0 Lotus Elise '00 S1 Tires NA1 Ballast 36
242HP 5.774 19'31 457 11 7 0 Honda Accord Euro-R '02 S1 Tires Sports Exhaust NA1 Ballast 8
160HP 5.315 18'59 460 11 7 0 Opel Speedster '00 S1 Tires Racing Exhaust Racing Chip Ballast 1
 
Used March G# '99 - Category A-1

I had a few credits at the end of a test, and noticed that a March G# '99 was available on Day 1 at the used car showroom for 8501 credits. This used car appears to be very similar to the March used by the Japanese Author, and the Micra that score so well in Family Cup races. It also performed very well against my test cars at Nurburgring, so I decided to try it out.

Baseline for Comparison

Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01
BW 21, Oil Change, S1, NA1, Sports Exhaust
116HP, 8.787 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'52, B-spec:374/11/6/0

Nissan March G# '99
Used, default, dirty oil
71HP, 11.679 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 200 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 22'25, B-spec:339/10/5/0

Nissan March G# '99
Oil Change, S1 Tires, NA1, Racing Chip, Racing Exhaust, Ballast Weight 7
104HP, 8.015 PWR, Umbria (Easy): 164 pts, Category: A-1
Time: 20'59, B-spec:372/11/6/0

I'm curious how it will perform with the rigidity refresh.
 
A-2 Tuning for the Opel Corsa Comfort 1.4 '01

Oil Change
Wing Added
Racing Exhaust
Racing Chip
Turbo 2
181HP
5.503 PWR
Umbria Easy = 41 pts

Checking Tires
S3 = 23 pts
S2 = 32 pts
S1 = 41 pts


Turbo 3 is not available. Incrementing with Downforce.

S1 +Down 0 0 41 pts
S1 +Down 0 1 40 pts
S1 +Down 1 1 39 pts
S1 +Down 2 2 37 pts
S1 +Down 3 3 35 pts
S1 +Down 4 4 32 pts
S1 +Down 5 5 30 pts
S1 +Down 6 6 28 pts

S1 +Down 7 7 26 pts
S1 +Down 0 14 26 pts
S1 +Down 14 0 26 pts

S1 +Down 7 7 + BW1 27 pts
S1 +Down 0 14 + BW1 27 pts
S1 +Down 14 0 + BW1 27 pts

Nurburgring Free Run, 2 laps, Pace 1
S1 +Down 7 7 +BW1
Time:19'35, B-spec:453/11/7/0


Testing the influence of parts on B-spec points

Opel Speedster '00
Nurburgring Free Run, 2 laps, Pace 1

19'05 454 11 7 0 default
19'03 455 11 7 0 Racing Flywheel
19'05 454 11 7 0 Twin Plate Clutch
19'04 453 11 7 0 Sports Clutch and Sports Flywheel
19'01 455 11 7 0 Racing Clutch and Racing Flywheel
19'07 453 11 7 0 Racing Suspension
19'08 453 11 7 0 Racing Brakes
19'05 454 11 7 0 Brake Controller
19'04 453 11 7 0 Transmission: Full Customize
19'06 453 11 7 0 Limited-slip: Full Customize

19'05 454 11 7 0 Driving Aids 0 0 0
19'06 454 11 7 0 Driving Aids 20 20 10
* difference in time depends on how quickly I pause.

Results:
* Part influence performance (Time)
* Performance may influence B-spec points
* Parts do not influence B-spec points directly
* Testing method is not accurate enough to draw conclusions


New information is available at the web site of the Japanese Author

Raising B-spec skill 7000 on only Suzuka Circuit West Course
raising B-spec skill 7000 only Suzuka Circuit West Course
 
B-spec Drive is faster on Nurburgring if Pit is On

I was looking for a method to increase the battle skill on a race where my driver took the lead a little too early and made an unexpected observation. The B-spec driver drives differently if the Pit option is on during the race. On Nurburgring he was much faster during the 1st lap.

Mazda MX-5 Miata 1800 RS (NB, J) '04
S1 Tires Turbo1 Ballast 11 -47

Nurburgring Family Cup
Difficulty -7, Pace Slow

B-spec:726/11/7/7
Time: 19'53.202
1st Lap: 10'13.020

Same as above except:
Pit is turned On as soon as the race allows
Pit is turned Off just before the pit lane

B-spec:713/11/7/6
Time: 19'43.420
1st Lap: 10'02.362


Maximizing A-1 Floating Points - select scores for comparison

Mazda MX-5 Miata 1800 RS (NB, J) '04
S1 Tires Turbo1 Ballast 11 -47

Difficulty -6, Pace Slow
19'53.922, B-spec:728/11/7/7

Opel Speedster '00
Oil Change S1 Tires Racing Exhaust Ballast 17 -47

Difficulty -4, Pace Slow
19'29.193, B-spec:715/12/7/6

Difficulty -5, Pace Slow
19'37.208, B-spec:726/11/7/5

Lotus Elise '00
Oil WR2 S1 Tires Racing Exhaust Sports Chip Weight 8 -47

Difficulty -4, Pace Slow
19'01.777, B-spec:719/12/7/7
 
Category B-1 Testing

The Maximum A-spec Value for a B-1 Car is about 1118.

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

Default settings. Oiled value tested after practice on Nurburgring.

Credits HP__ PWR Time B-spec M C B Value Tested Oiled_ Tested Year Car Name
27500 285HP 4.597 18'33 517 10 7 0 1059 114pts 1075.94 98 pts 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S (J) '03
59500 195HP 3.543 18l14 517 10 7 0 1073 101pts 1090.17 84 pts 2000 Tommy Kaira ZZ-S '00
92070 281HP 4.772 18'05 524 10 7 0 1076 97 pts 1093.22 81 pts 2001 Honda NSX '01
97180 204HP 3.424 17'46 529 10 7 0 1085 89 pts 1102.36 72 pts 1999 Lotus Motor Sport Elise '99
34490 357HP 4.733 18'43 497 10 7 0 1088 85 pts 1105.41 69 pts 2004 Pontiac GTO 5.7 Coupe '04
55430 346HP 4.805 18'32 508 10 7 0 1089 84 pts 1106.42 68 pts 2003 Audi S4 '03
47960 333HP 4.986 18'41 507 10 7 0 1091 82 pts 1108.46 65 pts 2004 Holden Monaro CV8 '04
177850 367HP 5.326 18'44 511 10 7 0 1091 82 pts 1108.46 66 pts 2000 Mercedes-Benz CL 600 '00
33000 286HP 4.610 18'18 517 10 7 0 1092 81 pts 1109.47 65 pts 2003 Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03
28950 315HP 4.458 18'12 516 10 7 0 1098 75 pts 1115.57 59 pts 2002 Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi (GD, Type-II) '02
- vehicles below this line will upgrade to B-2 if the oil is changed -
60980 333HP 4.661 18'14 520 10 7 0 1104 69 pts 1121.66 53 pts 2000 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II N1 (R34) '00
46740 367HP 4.838 18'33 516 10 7 0 1108 65 pts 1125.73 48 pts 2004 FPV F6 Typhoon '04
39980 297HP 4.272 18'08 524 10 7 0 1108 66 pts 1125.73 49 pts 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD) '02
74560 344HP 4.564 18'14 518 10 7 0 1111 63 pts 1128.78 46 pts 2004 BMW M3 '04
33980 327HP 4.283 18'08 520 10 7 0 1113 60 pts 1130.81 43 pts 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR '04

Maximizing Machine Points

Select cars tuned to earn 57 pts (56 pts + 1 kg) at
Tsukuba Wet Race (Easy) - Nissan Skyline GT-R V-spec II Nur '02, A-2:193, B-1:56

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

HP__ PWR Time B-spec M C B Car Name Modifications
350HP 3.753 18'21 525 10 7 0 Mazda RX-8 Type S (J) '03 Oil S1 Tires Sports Exhaust Racing Chip Turbo 1 Weight 3 -47
352HP 3.765 18'14 530 10 7 0 Mazda RX-8 Type S (J) '03 Oil S1 Tires NA2 Sports Chip Weight 16
231HP 3.046 18'00 534 10 7 0 Tommy Kaira ZZ-S '00 Oil S1 Tires NA1 Weight 15 0
334HP 4.166 17'56 544 11 8 0 Honda NSX '01 Oil S1 Tires NA1 Sports Exhaust Weight 50 0
327HP 4.107 17'54 543 11 8 0 Honda NSX '01 Oil S1 Tires NA1 Weight 4 0
236HP 3.074 17'39 543 11 8 0 Lotus Motor Sport Elise '99 Oil S1 Tires NA1 Semi Exhaust Weight 27 0
235HP 3.056 17'44 537 11 7 0 Lotus Motor Sport Elise '99 Oil S1 Tires Turbo 1 Weight 19 0
319HP 4.167 18'14 528 10 7 0 Nissan 350Z (Z33) '03 Oil S1 Tires Sports Exhaust Racing Chip Weight 8 0
325HP 4.122 18'10 530 10 7 0 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD) '02 Oil S1 Tires Sports Intercooler Weight 68 0

NA power upgrades appear to earn more machine points than Turbo.
 
New information is available (in English) on the web site of the Japanese Author

Test of Machine Skill and Course Skill - using dummy entry

Table shows the change in a select sample of cars when they are upgraded with a strong power upgrade and R3 Tires. A link is provided for a comparison page with the default setting for each vehicle. I am curious how the author intends to use this information.


Wait a minute. I think I'm reading this wrong. It looks like he's testing the collection of points when a car is enter with default settings and upgrades are added at the settings menu in the race. The time reported are much faster in the new table, so I would think that the upgrades are added rather than removed.

Yes, that looks correct. I'll need to repeat one of the tests to be sure. It looks like significantly more points are earned from the original category if power upgrades and R3 Tires are added at the setting menu in the race. Sometimes the increase is minimal, is occasionally as large as 60 points, and seems to average at about a 40 point increase for each race. These are just estimates based on a quick glance at the data.

Japanese Data
147 5.795 A-2 19'06 452 11 6 (A-2) Opel Speedster '00
278 3.060 A-2 16'41 462 11 6 (B-2) Opel Speedster '00 + T3 + R3

North American Data
147 5.795 [A-2] 19'05 454 11 7 (A-2) [Opel Speedster '00]
278 3.060 [A-2] 16'42 472 11 7 (B-2) (Opel Speedster '00 + T3 + R3)

*[At Home] enter the race (Settings In Race)

Almost the same. I'm not sure why my Speedster is earning more course skill, or 10 more points with the "dummy" trick. Still, I think I understand the data presented in this web page.

Other testing:
278 3.060 [A-2] 16'24 460 11 6 (B-2) (Opel Speedster '00 + T3 + R3 + Wing 30 30)
 
Testing Of: Test of Machine Skill and Course Skill - using dummy entry

The strategy is to enter a car into the race or practice session as a "Dummy" and fix the B-spec category at a low level, then switch to a "Trick" car at a higher level to collect more points than would normally be collected during that race or practice session. I keep thinking of this strategy as "The Dummy Trick."

Dummy NSX: Honda NSX '01 +N1 +BW150 281HP 5.306 PWR Category A-2
* The Dummy car is set at Home and used to enter the race.
* Change to the Trick car at the Settings menu in the race.

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Car : Default, 0.0km, No oil change
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

Dummy NSX (baseline):
19'46 462 11 7 0 Dummy NSX (N1, BW150)

Trick NSX 0 = Honda NSX '01 default 281HP 4.772 PWR
18'08 472 11 7 0 Trick NSX 0 default

Trick NSX 1 = Honda NSX '01 +NA1 +BW0 312HP 4.299 PWR
18'00 479 11 7 0 Trick NSX 1 +S1

Trick NSX 2 = Honda NSX '01 +NA2 +BW0 353HP 3.795 PWR
17'44 488 12 7 0 Trick NSX 2 +S1

Trick NSX 3 = Honda NSX '01 +NA3 +BW0 398HP 3.365 PWR
18'57 486 12 7 0 Trick NSX 3 +N1
17'31 487 12 7 0 Trick NSX 3 +S1
16'48 482 12 7 0 Trick NSX 3 +R1
16'18 476 11 7 0 Trick NSX 3 +R3

The Dummy Trick works fairly well, but upgrading to maximum doesn't appear to be necessary. It is good to know that the expensive NA3 will probably not earn any more points than the NA2. I am worried about loosing track of my Track Points using this method. The Machine points collected using this trick will be from the A-2 subcategory, but the Track Points will be collected from the B Category.

Continued practice indicates that there are only 500 points available in the A-2 subcategory (492 +8, depending on the fractions).

Sorry, it is difficult to format this data. I need a method to generate tables.
 
All Category A-2 Points Collected in a Single Race using Dummy Entry

I think. It is difficult to confirm all battle points without a hard milestone score like 7375, but the more difficult to collect Machine points are confirmed with a Machine Skill of 25 for 2 subcategories (A-2 and B-1) plus 1 track. I was fooled by the fractions again. On my 1st attempt I scored B-spec:749/12/7/7. 737+12=749 so I think I'm done and started testing for B-1. A complete collection of A-2 + 1 track will score B-spec:750/12/7/7.

Dummy NSX = Honda NSX '01 +N1 +BW150 281HP 5.306 PWR
Trick NSX 2 = Honda NSX '01 +S1 +NA2 353HP 3.795 PWR

Enter Nurburgring Family Cup with Dummy, change to Trick at Setting menu

18'18.793 750 12 7 7 Difficulty -1 Pace 1 - Slow

Confirming Machine Points with Machine Skill 25

Default NSX is used for a Category B-1 Dummy Car.
The more powerful Turbo 3 is more effective on a B-1 Trick Car than a Turbo 2.

Default NSX = Honda NSX '01 default 281HP 4.772 PWR
Trick NSX 3 = Honda NSX '01 +S1 +NA3 398HP 3.365 PWR

17'49.555 1620 24 16 16 Difficulty -3 Pace 1 - Slow
17'09.979 1651 25 17 16 Difficulty -5 Pace 1 - Slow

It looks like a single race B-1 collection is within range.


Oh! So close. I am trying for a Category A-2 score of 750 with the much less expensive Mazda RX-8 Type S (J) '03 and only the NA2. Currently I'm stuck at 749, but I hope a different lineup caused by adding a little more weight to the Dummy Car will present more favorable racing conditions. This RX-8 scored much lower than the Elise Motor Sport and Honda NSX during practice, but consistently scores within a few points of maximum. This increases my confidence that the 750 score from the Trick NSX collected all the points. I suspect the Elise Motor Sport would score just as well. The Tommy Kaira ZZ-S will also scale down to A-2 subcategory and scored just a little better than the RX-8 during practice.

2 more lineups produced a score of 749 for the RX-8. I suspect there is a perfect race here someplace, but I can't find it, and my confidence for collecting stray fractions will be low.
 
Top B-1 Dummy Entry Cars

Evaluated for Category only. Machine and Race testing to follow.

Credits New_ Year Car Name
078000 1220 1999 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +N1 +BW130
177700 1224 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 600 (R230) 04 +N1 +BW200
116650 1226 2005 BMW M5 '05 +N1 +BW190
388720 1228 2000 Pagani Zonda C12 '00 +N1 +BW160

Based on previous tests, I suspect the Zonda and Viper will collect points faster. I'm hoping the Viper will be good enough, the Zonda is too expensive for this purpose. All of these cars are near the top of the B-2 Category using default settings.

Testing Machine Points

B-Spec : B-Spec skill 0, Machine skill 0, Course skill 0, Battle skill 0
Car : Default, 0.0km, No oil change
Free Run : Nurburgring Nordschleife, 2 laps, Pace 1

17'52 513 10 7 Honda NSX-R Concept '01 default (Japanese Data)

19'06 531 10 8 0 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +N1 +BW130
16'59 562 11 8 0 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA2
16'32 577 11 8 0 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3

19'14 536 10 8 0 BMW M5 '05 +N1 +BW190
17'20 556 11 8 0 BMW M5 '05 +S1 +NA2
17'13 556 11 8 0 BMW M5 '05 +S1 +NA3

19'06 534 10 8 0 Pagani Zonda C12 '00 +N1 +BW160
16'58 565 11 8 0 Pagani Zonda C12 '00 +S1 +NA2
16'30 579 11 8 0 Pagani Zonda C12 '00 +S1 +NA3

Dodge Viper GTS '99 Default 456HP 3.442 PWR
BMW M5 '05 Default 508HP 3.374 PWR
Pagani Zonda C12 '00 Default 394HP 3.175 PWR
 
All Category B-1 Points Collected in a Single Race using Dummy Entry

I hope. Again, only a milestone score can confirm the battle points.
Machine Points were confirmed by collecting B-2 points and earning a Machine Skill of 25.
The Default Viper was used as the Dummy Entry for collecting B-2 points.

Default Viper: Dodge Viper GTS '99 Default (S2) 456HP 3.442 PWR
Dummy Viper: Dodge Viper GTS '99 +N1 +BW130 456HP 3.727 PWR
Trick Viper: Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3 826HP 1.899 PWR

Nurburgring Family Cup. Overtake On, Pace 1 - Slow
Enter the race with the Dummy Car
Switch to the Trick Car at the Settings menu in the race.

Difficulty -2 17'00.132 913 12 9 9 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3
(2nd try starting from 0/0/0/0)
Difficulty -1 16'59.821 913 12 9 9 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3


Using Default Viper for B-2 Dummy.
(two more races starting from 913/12/9/9)
Difficulty -5 1965 24 19 19 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3
Difficulty -6 1991 25 20 19 Dodge Viper GTS '99 +S1 +NA3

Only 26 B-2 points short and I don't think this will be my best B-2 dummy.

Strange. I was expecting only 1988 points.


Progress: Dodge Viper SRT 10 '03, B-2 practice, B-spec:705/12/10/0
Oh, so close: 1082/12/10/10
It is difficult to collect all of both Machine and Battle points (1089? 1090?).

Stuck at 1082. I don't think the Viper SRT 10 is going to make it. Perhaps the Saleen S7 will do better. The other two likely candidates are the Pagani Zonda C12 S 7.3 and Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. These cars are very expensive and I am still earning all my credits at the Capri Rally so progress is slow. I was hoping the Viper would do the trick. 1032HP at full power and the Dummy Viper includes Weight Reduction: Stage 3. Testing of the Ford GT '05 was disappointing. Equipping NA3 doesn't increase the power very much. Testing of the Viper GTS was good, but not as good as the Viper SRT 10. I was not able to downgrade the Tommy Kaira ZZ-II '00 into the B-2 subcategory.

 
New information is available on the website of the Japanese Author.

We can check missing B-spec Skill points on Arcade Mode

Data is incomplete. Only category D-2 so far.

I was still having fun with the Dummy Cars and I now I have something new to investigate. I was hoping the North American and Japanese versions would be similar in Arcade Mode, but already I have run into a snag.

Test Car: Polyphony Digital Formula Gran Turismo '04
Test Track: Test Course

Default settings for AI cars and Japanese data:

Power: 904 HP
Weight: 550 kg

1st, 3'40.928

Default settings for North American player's car:

Power: 892 HP
Weight: 550 kg

4th, +0'00.167

Adjusting the settings from the Quick-Tuneup menu allows adjusting the power by 8 to 10 units. I can set 900HP or 909HP, but I cannot match the AI cars or Japanese settings.


Testing of: We can check missing B-spec Skill points on Arcade Mode

Do B-spec skills influence Arcade Mode?

Yes, for Track Points (3000/0/30/30).
For now, I assume Floating Points (7000/100/70/70) also influence Arcade Mode


Test Conditions

Formula Gran Turismo '04 as outlined in the web page.
Testing at Clubman Stage Route 5 Normal

10000 driver - all points are collected.
9236 driver - all +14 Track Points available for Category D on Clubman Stage Route 5 Normal (all subcategory D-2 Floating Points collected).
9245 driver - some Category D Track Points collected from Clubman Stage Route 5 Normal in a Family Cup race.
0000 driver - Formula Gran Turismo '04 is not available

10000 driver: 5th +0'03.868
9236 driver: 6th +0'04.076
9245 driver: 6th +0'04.530

This appears to be a viable testing method for checking missing points.


Arcade Mode Notes:

Arcade Mode does not collect B-spec points for Grand Turismo Mode.
Some cars and tracks must be unlocked to be available in Arcade Mode.
Arcade Mode is not documented well in the Guides I have read.


Early Category D (maybe, it's close) in Arcade Mode: Lister Storm V12 Race Car '99
 
Description of a Good Nurburgring Family Cup Race

Tune the car to earn lots of Machine Points.
Race with Pace 1 - Slow Down.
Leave Overtake ON
Pitting should not be a factor. Leave Pit OFF
Adjust difficulty as required.

A) Leading the race leads to more Machine Skill.
B) Proximity to other cars will increase Battle Skill.
Where should cars be passed to balance A and B?
  • T1: A slow start due to hard tires, slow pace, and low points. Trail all cars.
  • T2: Maybe pass one car, but get passed again at the hairpin before T2.
  • T3-T5: Follow closely, or pass and be passed. Hopefully reach T5 in 6th place.
  • T6: Pass all 5 cars if possible. (Is a bonus is earned in this section?)
  • T7-T9: Pass if possible with hard tires and slow pace. Hurry.
    • A battle here should lock in any remaining Battle Points.
    • A battle here may lead to fewer Machine Points.
  • T10: Pass and lead for the rest of the race.
These notes are based on Dummy Testing with the Saleen S7 and similar tests with the lower level power classes. This car consistently ran good races against different lineups. The lineups had cars that bunched together without a slow car to pass early, or a fast car to pass late. The goal was to collect all points from Category B-2 in a single race, but I'm still just a tad short (1082 again, twice).

Under normal conditions a perfect race is not required since at least two races will probably be necessary. B-2 has a lot of points, 1077+12, so it's not surprising they are difficult to collect all at once. It is wise to error on the side of a longer battle. A 2nd race should emphasis the points you think are most likely to remain based on these standards and the results of the 1st race. The difference in Machine Points between passing at T6 or T7 and passing at T10 or T11 is only about 10 points. Passing a little too soon can result in missing 20 or a lot more Battle Points.


Dummy Testing with the Saleen S7 '02

Dummy Saleen: default +WR2 +N1 +BW190 = B-2
Trick Saleen: default +WR2 +R2 +NA3

2 Lap Practice: 15'14 697 11 10 0
Difficulty 0 15'32.903 1082 12 10 10


1 Race Scores for the Saleen S7: (very consistent)
1077 1082 1082 1081 1078 1067 1078 (Difficulty 2 to -3 and R1 at -3)
I doubt the Zonda S 7.3 or McLaren will do much better.
 
Last edited:
Long time lurker, first time poster! I'd just like to thank everyone here for obviously putting alot of time and patience into figuring out the very enigmatic spec B. Im just starting out on my spec B racer and have a very simple question:

TigJackson
3. Achieving the first 7000 points can be done using only four cars on the Nurburgring.
Click to expand...

Do we just simply use nurburgring's practice mode and let the 4 category's and subclasses run loose? It doesn't really specify what mode we should be running to get the first 7000 points. and if we do just simply use practice, how do you know when to stop? how many laps is enough? I would appreciate any help!
 
New information is available on the web site of the Japanese Author


Test of Machine Skill and Course Skill & 1st place's bonus of Machine Skill and Course Skill

Test of Battle Skill & 1st place's bonus of Battle Skill

The author notes that the document is incomplete. I am still studying the data and will reserve comment for now and answer the question of the previous poster.

Practice Mode is not enough to collect all the points. You need to enter Races in order to build battle skill. This method uses Family Cup races so that any car can enter any track that is unlocked. Practice mode is good for testing the tuning of your vehicle, but for the most part you want to be racing. There appear to be bonuses involved with the races that are not available for practice.

You stop only when you have collected each and every point in that subcategory (subclass) or you will have a difficult time tracking where you left your points. It's a good idea to run an extra race to collect hidden fractions which might still be on the track. A common point of confusion is in regards to Categories and Subcategories. Previously I referred to these as classes and subclasses, but I'm trying to change terms to match those used by the Japanese Author. On Nurburgring, you need to run 8 different subcategories. Sometimes cars are reused for more than one subcategory so it might get confusing. 8 subcategories on Nurburgring, 4 categories on the other 57 B-spec tracks.

The TigJackson post is old information. If you review some of the more recent posts you are likely to improve your collection methods. Also, I would advise checking out the instructions that are now available in English from the original Japanese Author.
http://www.geocities.jp/j8ba7yrg/gt4/english/index.html

Also, I've got a template for scripted collections for the North American version. I can probably plug you into some major points in a hurry. Currently I'm working on Family Cup collections, but I'm stuck on B-2. The other methods involve scripted championships and series that earn the credits to complete the collection, and a lot more. By scripted, I mean enter the exact car with specific settings and collect exactly the same points from an identical race.

https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?t=102803

Do you have 0 B-spec points, or do you have a partial collection? Also, is your goal to collect all 10000 points, almost all the points, or a lot of points so your driver can win some races?
 
Early Comments on
Test of Machine Skill and Course Skill & 1st place's bonus of Machine Skill and Course Skill
and
Test of Battle Skill & 1st place's bonus of Battle Skill


Sector Point "naturally to Result Screen": Run on after the race.
Hypothesis: No points are ever collected after the finish line.
Methods used to collect B-spec Skill 0 to 7375:
using method of "after reset PS2, the 1st race is the same Starting grid"
and "if under the same condition, ranking & time is the same"
​
Observations: It does not matter if the race continues naturally to the end. A player can stop the race any time after the finish line and the same points will be collected. This held true even for Championship races with extended time after the race.

I am so confident in this hypothesis that I have not conducted a hard experiment to confirm the results. If there was a difference in points earned it would have been evident over many races.

Comments on the Details of Race No 1 (Machine)
from T10 to T11, earned "0 points", this is all of Machine skill (and Course skill)
accelerator pedal, brake pedal and steering wheel is almost fixed.
We can watch movement of accelerator pedal and brake pedal in the race on replay.
But we can not watch movement of steering wheel in the race on replay.

It stops counting the similar motion gradually. Finally it converges on 0.
Click to expand...

B-spec at once, and all that extra personal gonzo

I have tried to use translators to interpret the original Japanese document for: 21 Conclusion about B-spec 2005/11/01, but have had disappointing results. However, there are some hints that suggest that use of the accelerator, brakes, and steering play a primary roll in earning B-spec points. Another factor suggested in the document was the G-force applied to the driver. Based on these clues I have made the following observations:

Accelerator and Brakes: If overtake is off then the driver makes many adjustments. This results in fewer machine points. Smooth and even driving earns more machine skill.

Steering: No useful observations.

G-Force: If low G-force increases machine points faster (related to accelerator and brakes), then harder tires and slower pace should result in more machine skill. This hypothesis has consistently held true during testing.
 
More comments on:
Test of Machine Skill and Course Skill & 1st place's bonus of Machine Skill and Course Skill
Okay. I think I understand the significance of this document.

Part 1 describes 2 races. In the 1st race the author races far behind the other cars to avoid collecting battle points and records the machine points collected. In the second race the author qualifies 1st and leads all cars to avoid collecting battle points. At the end of the 2nd race a large machine point bonus is earned just as he crosses the finish line.

The author concludes that winning the races earns a machine point bonus. I agree with most of this conclusion. A bonus is earned as the race is won, but I wonder about the value of this bonus. Could leading the race contribute to this bonus? If the author was in 1st place for only 1 lap would the machine point bonus for winning be different? What would happen if the author qualified 1st, raced 1 lap in 1st place, and then used a pit stop to lose the race? Can battle points be earned while in the pit?

Recent dummy testing suggests that it is important to collect all the battle points as soon as possible so that the car can lead the race for as long as possible. I was trying to increase machine skill by running a smooth an even race without other cars blocking the racing line. Perhaps the increase in points was due to a bonus for leading the race.

Part 2 details the points collected during race 1. The Author has conducted the very same race 27 times, and has quit early to record how many points have been collected during each sector of a 2 lap race on Nurburgring.

I suspect the purpose of this part of the document is intended to demonstrate the impact of steering on machine skill. The conclusion is heavily qualified by the author as his personal interpretation of the data.

It stops counting the similar motion gradually. Finally it converges on 0.

Similar Motion earns fewer points because those points have already been collected; a basic premise of B-spec. If this is true then sectors with Unique Motion should increase machine skill. Nurburgring is raced in a clockwise direction so right turns should be more common and left turns more unique. This conclusion predicts that sectors with more left turns will collect more points than other sectors.

This data is copied from the Japanese data. Only the sector, sector millage, and points collected during that sector are included. A 4th field is added and is the average points per mile for that sector (Points/Diff. of Miles).

Sector Point Diff. of Mileage Points Point per Mile
start, 6th 0.4 -
T1 1.9 61 32.1
T2 2 22 11.0
T3 1.4 20 14.3
T4 2.2 44 20.0
T5 1.7 28 16.5
T6 1.7 7 4.1
T7 2.1 33 15.7
T8 1.7 63 37.1
T9 1.1 9 8.2
T10 2.1 33 15.7
T11 1.7 0 0.0
end 1st lap 1.1 22 20.0
1 lap +T1 1.9 49 25.8
1 lap +T2 2 13 6.5
1 lap +T3 1.4 17 12.1
1 lap +T4 2.1 35 16.7
1 lap +T5 1.8 9 5.0
1 lap +T6 1.6 0 0.0
1 lap +T7 2.1 7 3.3
1 lap +T8 1.7 7 4.1
1 lap +T9 1.1 4 3.6
1 lap +T10 2.1 7 3.3
1 lap +T11 1.7 0 0.0
-1sec. finish 1.1 9 8.2
finish, 6th 0 0 0.0
naturally to Result Screen 0.4 0 0.0

Nurburgring Map

It's hard to tell. The sectors with lots of left turns seem to earn more points, but I could also argue that sectors with lots of turns earn more points. I do not see any evidence that all the right turn points were collected early. Perhaps these sectors are unique in some other way. Observing replays may provide some useful information.


What happened in race 9 of the Battle Bonus test?
Battle Race 8 - Wow. Nice race for this purpose.
 
How, exactly, are course points decided? Is it a combination of car/track, battle-experience/track, or something else?

I'm considering, if you answer in a very convenient way, maxing out B-Spec driver's course points, to accompany his full machine skill.
 

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