GT3 On A Simulator
In Tampa
GT3 is the class that fills modern sports car grids worldwide. Racing versions of road-going sports cars, built to a shared rulebook, with real aerodynamics and slick tires. This page explains what the class is, how the cars differ from anything road-legal, and which of our rigs suits driving one.
What GT3 Is
GT3 is a technical rulebook rather than a manufacturer or a single championship. Car makers build a racing version of a road-going sports car to that specification, and a number of different series around the world run grids made up of those cars.
Because the cars start from very different road cars, front-engined V8s, mid-engined turbos, flat-sixes, organizers apply what is called Balance of Performance. Parameters such as minimum weight, engine power and aerodynamic configuration are adjusted between models with the aim of bringing their performance closer together. How successfully that works is a permanent topic of argument among people who follow the class, which tells you something about how hard the problem is.
Mechanically the cars sit between a road sports car and a prototype. They generate aerodynamic downforce, run slick tires, and use sequential gearboxes. They also retain anti-lock braking and traction control, which is unusual at this level of motorsport and is a large part of why the class is so widely raced by amateur and professional drivers alike.
This describes the class in general terms. Academy Sim Racing is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or licensed by any racing series, sanctioning body or car manufacturer. Which specific cars and circuits are available depends on the simulator software in use.
How A GT3 Car Differs From A Road Car
Racing brake discs and pads operating at much higher temperatures than road equipment, with anti-lock braking retained. Braking distances are far shorter than a road car, and the pedal is firmer and less progressive.
Downforce rises with speed, so the aerodynamic grip available in a fast corner is greater than in a slow one. This is the single biggest difference from a road car and the hardest thing to develop an instinct for.
Sequential gearboxes operated by paddles, so gear changes are a single pull rather than a movement through a gate. If you would rather shift a manual yourself, four of our rigs are fitted for that instead.
Stiff springs, minimal body roll and a fixed racing seat. The car changes direction with far less lean than a road car, and curbs register as a sharp hit rather than a rumble.
Which Rig Suits It
We have eight racing simulators and they are not identical. Our library runs iRacing and Assetto Corsa, covering more than 170 cars across more than 140 tracks.
Motion platform
Our flagship pairs a motion platform with triple screens, direct drive steering, active pedals and a real cockpit. Motion communicates load transfer, the car settling under braking, the rear moving on exit, through the seat rather than only through the wheel.
Triple screen
Triple screens widen your field of view, so apexes and mirrors sit where your eyes expect them rather than off the edge of a single display. Paired with direct drive steering and load-cell or active pedals.
Single-screen rigs are also available and run exactly the same software. If a particular configuration matters to you, mention it when you book.
Booking A Session
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No experience is required
Sessions start at $40 an hour. Setup and a few orientation laps come with every booking, seat position, wheel height and pedal distance all matter more than people expect.
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Coaching is available as an add-on
Basic Coaching ($40) puts an instructor beside you for the whole session, working on braking points, the racing line and the habits that cost time. Advanced Coaching ($60) adds telemetry review for drivers who already have pace. Both are optional extras at checkout.
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Walk in on Friday or Saturday
We are open for walk-ins Friday and Saturday, 2–10 PM. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday are by appointment, and the lounge is closed to the public on Tuesdays.
Simulator time is practice and preparation. It is not a substitute for real-world driving instruction, and it does not guarantee any particular result on a real circuit.
Two Ways To Put In The Laps
Drive At Our Tampa Lounge
Eight professional simulators at 1421 Massaro Blvd, Tampa. Sessions from $40 an hour, coaching optional, no experience needed.
BOOK A SESSION →Build One For Home
Academy also builds custom simulators, from single screen to full motion. You can try the rigs in Tampa before deciding on anything.
EXPLORE BUILDS →Need simulators brought to a corporate day, party or team event? See Academy Events.
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