Gran Turismo 5 Prologue vs Gran Turismo
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue serves as an advanced precursor and technical showcase for the full Gran Turismo 5 experience, replacing Gran Turismo HD Concept. Featuring a native 60 frames per second frame rate during races, LPCM 7.1ch high definition sound, and detailed vehicle physics, it bridges the gap between past entries and the next generation of racing simulations. Updated through the Spec III software revision, the title expanded its offerings to include up to 16-player online races, over 70 meticulously modeled production and tuned cars, and 6 diverse tracks with 12 unique layouts. It provides players with a comprehensive taste of competitive racing and high-fidelity automotive culture on the PlayStation 3 platform.
Gran Turismo is the acclaimed first entry in the simulator racing series, developed over five years by Polyphony Digital and designed by Kazunori Yamauchi. It offers an authentic driving experience that became the best-selling PlayStation game, captivating players with its deep simulation mechanics and vast automotive selection. The game features two distinct gameplay styles: Arcade Mode for immediate free-choice racing and the deep Gran Turismo Mode, where players earn driver's licenses, credits, and prize cars through career championships. With 140 meticulously detailed cars and 11 challenging race tracks, it sets the standard for console racing simulators.
- Stunning high-definition visuals running at a fluid 60 frames per second during races
- Extensive car roster featuring over 70 meticulously recreated vehicles including tuned variants
- Robust online multiplayer supporting up to 16 players per race
- Immersive LPCM 7.1ch high definition sound design
- In-depth and realistic driving simulation for its era
- Robust career progression via Gran Turismo Mode
- Extensive roster of 140 cars and 11 unique tracks
- Engaging driver's license qualification system
- Content is ultimately a preview and precursor rather than a full standalone game
- Limited to a total of 6 distinct tracks and 12 layouts
- Replays are displayed at a lower 30 frames per second instead of the in-race 60 FPS
- Dated graphics by modern standards
- Steeper learning curve for casual arcade players
- Limited to local multiplayer options
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
View all →
The legendary racing simulator featuring over 150 detailed cars and realistic physics.
Alternatives to Gran Turismo
View all →
The ultimate automotive simulation sequel featuring nearly 650 cars and 27 tracks.
The legendary racing simulator featuring over 150 detailed cars and realistic physics.
A high-definition preview of the ultimate racing simulator for PlayStation 3.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGran Turismo is the safer default for a full career-driven campaign, while Gran Turismo 5 Prologue trades deep content for high-definition visuals, 60 FPS performance, and robust online multiplayer. Your choice hinges on whether you want a complete historical game or a modern-looking preview.
Key differences
- •Gran Turismo features 140 cars and 11 tracks with a robust Gran Turismo Mode career progression, whereas Gran Turismo 5 Prologue offers over 70 cars and 6 tracks as a preview release.
- •Gran Turismo 5 Prologue includes robust online multiplayer supporting up to 16 players simultaneously, while Gran Turismo is limited to local multiplayer options.
- •Gran Turismo runs on older, dated graphics by modern standards, whereas Gran Turismo 5 Prologue provides stunning high-definition visuals at a fluid 60 frames per second.
- •Gran Turismo includes a driver's license qualification system and competitive race championships, while Gran Turismo 5 Prologue focuses on finely tuned physics and LPCM 7.1ch surround sound.
Gameplay & fun factor
Gran Turismo offers a robust career progression via Gran Turismo Mode and a driver's license qualification system.
Platform availability
Both are published by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by Polyphony Digital, but platform names are not fully specified beyond generations implied.
Price & value
Both games share an identical one-time paid MSRP of $39.99.
Multiplayer / co-op
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue supports robust online multiplayer for up to 16 players, whereas Gran Turismo is limited to local multiplayer.
Content & replayability
Gran Turismo provides 140 cars and 11 tracks (with reversed versions) plus championships, compared to 70 cars and 6 tracks in Prologue.
Difficulty & accessibility
Gran Turismo features a steeper learning curve for casual arcade players and requires earning official driver's licenses to progress.
Graphics & performance
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue delivers stunning high-definition visuals at 60 FPS and LPCM 7.1ch sound, whereas Gran Turismo has dated graphics.
Choose Gran Turismo 5 Prologue if…
PS3 owners wanting high-definition visuals, 60 FPS performance, and robust online multiplayer racing.
Choose Gran Turismo if…
Racing simulator fans wanting a deep, classic career progression and a massive car roster.
Common questions
Do both games cost the same price?
Yes, both Gran Turismo and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue have an MSRP of $39.99 as a one-time paid purchase.
Which game offers online multiplayer?
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue supports robust online multiplayer races for up to 16 players, while Gran Turismo is limited to local multiplayer options.
Which game has more cars and tracks?
Gran Turismo features 140 authentic cars and 11 distinct tracks, whereas Gran Turismo 5 Prologue offers over 70 cars and 6 distinct tracks.