f you’re diving into the world of iRacing, you’ve probably realized that the platform offers an incredible variety of cars, tracks, and series to choose from.
However, with so much content available, it can be overwhelming to decide what to buy and where to focus your efforts. That’s where this iRacing Shopping Guide comes in.
Note: In this guide we cannot analyze all the racing series, we will only cover the most famous road series. Therefore, it is vitally important that you analyze well your series and the content to be used to manage your budget.
- The Season 2 2025 calendar is available for download at this link.
Let’s get started!
Why a Strategic iRacing Shopping Guide Matters
iRacing operates on a unique content model where some cars and tracks are included in the base subscription, while others require additional purchases.
This means that to get the most out of your iRacing experience, you need to plan your purchases strategically.
By focusing on versatile cars and frequently used tracks, you can participate in multiple series without breaking the bank.
Getting Started: Rookie License Recommendations
What’s Included in the Base Content
When you first join iRacing, you’ll start in the Rookie class. The good news is that you don’t need to buy anything at this stage. The base content includes a selection of cars and tracks that are perfect for learning the ropes.
Some of the key cars you’ll have access to include the Mazda MX-5, Formula Vee, and Legends Ford ’34 Coupe. Popular base tracks include Laguna Seca, Oulton Park, and Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Transitioning from Rookie to D License
Once you’ve earned your D License, it’s time to start thinking about your first purchases. The goal here is to choose cars and tracks that will allow you to participate in multiple series.
For example, the Ferrari 296 GT3 is a great choice because it’s used in the Ferrari Fixed series as well as other GT3 events. Similarly, the GR86 is a versatile car that’s used in several D License series.
D License Shopping Guide
Recommended Cars for D License
- Ferrari 296 GT3: This car is a must-have if you’re interested in GT3 racing. It’s used in the Ferrari Fixed series and will also be useful in higher license classes.
- GT4 Cars: The Mercedes AMG GT4 and BMW M4 GT4 are both excellent choices for multiclass racing.
- TCR Cars: If you prefer front-wheel-drive racing, consider the Honda Civic or Audi RS3 LMS.
- Formula 4: For open-wheel enthusiasts, the Formula 4 car is essential. It’s used in multiple series, including the F4 Fixed and F4 Open.
Recommended Tracks for D License
Some of the most frequently used tracks in D License series include Sebring, Monza and Spa-Francorchamps. These tracks are popular across multiple series, so owning them will give you plenty of opportunities to race.
C License Shopping Guide
Popular Series in C License
- Advanced Mazda MX-5 Cup: This series uses the base content MX-5, so no additional purchases are needed.
- Formula 3: The Dalara F3 and Super Formula Lights are both excellent choices for open-wheel racing.
- LMP3 and Radical SR10: These cars are perfect for fans of prototype racing.
- Porsche Cup: Known for its challenging handling, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is a rewarding car to master.
Recommended Tracks for C License
Tracks like Nürburgring Combined, Suzuka, and Watkins Glen are frequently used in C License series. If you’re planning to race at the Nürburgring, make sure to purchase both the Nordschleife and GP layouts, as they are required for combined events.
B and A License Shopping Guide
Popular Series in B License
- Super Formula SF23: This high-speed open-wheel car is faster than an IndyCar and offers thrilling races.
- IMSA Series: The LMP2 and GTP cars are the stars of this multiclass endurance series.
- GT3 Fixed and Open: Cars like the Ferrari 296 GT3 and Porsche 911 GT3 R are popular choices.
Popular Series in A License
- IMSA Endurance: This series features the same cars as the IMSA series but with longer races.
- GTE Cars: These high-performance cars are faster than GT3s and lack ABS, making them a challenge to drive.
Recommended Tracks for B and A License
Tracks like Daytona, Le Mans, Spa, and Sebring are essential for endurance racing. These tracks are used in multiple series, so they’re a smart investment.
Oval Racing Shopping Guide
Getting Started in Oval Racing
If you’re interested in oval racing, start with the Street Stock series in the Rookie class. Once you’ve earned your D License, you can move on to the ARCA Menards Series.
Recommended Cars and Tracks for Oval Racing
- NASCAR Trucks (C License): These trucks are a great introduction to NASCAR-style racing.
- Xfinity Series (B License): This series features faster cars and more competitive racing.
- Cup Series (A License): The pinnacle of oval racing, the Cup Series uses the Next Gen NASCAR cars.
Popular oval tracks include Charlotte, Daytona, and Indianapolis. These tracks are used in multiple series, so they’re a great investment for oval racers.
Strategic Circuit Purchases
To maximize your participation and discounts, it’s important to plan your circuit purchases wisely. Here’s a strategy to ensure you get the most value:
Achieving Minimum Participation:
- 8-Week Participation Goal: Aim to participate in at least 8 weeks of racing to qualify for the participation bonuses.
Discount Strategies:
- 10% Bulk Purchase Discount: Purchase three to five pieces of eligible content (cars/tracks) at once and receive 10% off the total
- 15% Bulk Purchase Discount: Purchase six or more pieces of eligible content (cars/tracks) at once and receive 15% off the total
- 20% Loyalty Discount: Purchase 40 pieces of eligible content (cars/tracks) and receive a 20% discount from that point forward. In other words, once you own 40 pieces of eligible content, every content purchase after that is automatically discounted by 20%
- 30% Loyalty Discount: Purchase all available, full-priced content (cars/tracks) and receive 30% off the total price. This discount is calculated at the time of purchase, which means, if new content becomes available in the future, this would need to be purchased in order to receive the discount again. For example, if there are 100 pieces of content available and you already have purchased 97, you need to purchase the remaining 3 pieces in order to receive the discount, even if you had previously received the discount.
Choosing your iRacing Series
Factors such as car type, track variety, race length, and competition level all play a crucial role in determining the suitability of a series for individual drivers.
Whether you’re a rookie looking to climb the ranks or a seasoned veteran seeking new challenges, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of iRacing series selection. So, what are you waiting for?
Is it worth chasing iRacing bonuses?
You may have noticed that the platform offers bonus credits for completing a minimum number of races within a 12-week schedule of any series. While this may seem like a tempting opportunity to earn some extra credits, it’s important to carefully consider whether or not it’s worth the investment.
In some cases, the cost of chasing these bonuses may be higher than the value of the credits themselves.
To make the most of your content purchases on iRacing, it’s a good idea to only buy tracks and cars that you know you will use frequently.
This will help you get the most value and enjoyment out of your purchases. For example, if you plan to race a particular car in multiple series, it may be worth investing in it.
- Remember, you can join iRacing clicking here.
Happy Racing!
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