The debate about video game car model accuracy is a long-standing one within the automotive and gaming communities. When it comes to iconic vehicles like the Toyota Supra, enthusiasts are particularly discerning. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison between Forza Motorsport and Gran Turismo to see which title delivers a more authentic representation of this legendary sports car, focusing specifically on the Mk4 Supra RZ model.
One of the immediately noticeable discrepancies lies in the rear wiper placement on the Supra RZ within Forza. As seen in the images below, the wiper is positioned on the left-hand side, which is correct for a Left Hand Drive (LHD) configuration. However, the Supra RZ is a Right Hand Drive (RHD) Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car. This LHD wiper placement is a persistent issue in Forza titles, suggesting an oversight in model accuracy for the JDM Supra. In contrast, a true RHD/JDM spec Supra should have its rear wiper positioned on the right side of the hatch.
Conversely, Gran Turismo’s approach to the Supra model has evolved significantly. Early Gran Turismo PlayStation 3 titles seemingly reused the older, less detailed PlayStation 2 Supra model. However, with the advent of Gran Turismo Sport and continuing into Gran Turismo 7, the Supra received a complete visual overhaul. This remodel prioritized 100% accuracy, ensuring the in-game representation faithfully mirrored the real-world car. Gran Turismo’s commitment to car modeling accuracy shines through in their rendition of the Mk4 Supra.
A direct comparison between Gran Turismo 7 (GT7) and Forza Motorsport (FM) reveals further discrepancies in the Mk4 Supra models. Visual analysis points to several inaccuracies in the Forza model:
Key areas where the Forza model deviates from the accurate Supra Mk4 design include:
- Front bumper grilles: Appear too small and less defined compared to the real car and the GT7 model.
- Front fenders: Exhibit a noticeable misshape, lacking the correct curvature and lines.
- Taillights: Seem undersized and not proportionally accurate to the vehicle’s rear profile.
- Rear wiper position: The previously mentioned incorrect LHD placement on an RHD car.
- Rear marker lights: Positioned too high on the rear bumper, deviating from the correct lower placement.
- Third brake light: Appears oversized and disproportionate to the rear window and overall design.
- Supra logo misalignment: The “Supra” emblem on the rear hatch is not positioned accurately.
It becomes evident that the Mk4 Supra RZ in Forza has not undergone a comprehensive remodel to address these inaccuracies. While some minor adjustments, like the shift to JDM marker lights from USDM versions in later Forza iterations (post FM1), have occurred, the fundamental model shape remains largely unchanged since earlier Forza titles. This persistence of the older model, even in newer Forza Motorsport games, stands in contrast to Gran Turismo’s dedication to creating a fully accurate and modern representation of the Supra.
In conclusion, while both Forza and Gran Turismo offer players the chance to experience the thrill of driving a Supra Car, Gran Turismo currently provides a demonstrably more accurate and visually faithful representation of the iconic Mk4 Supra RZ model. For enthusiasts seeking the highest level of detail and authenticity in their virtual car collections, this difference in model accuracy is a significant factor to consider.
