Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT3 Silverstone Hot Lap Analysis
Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Silverstone in the Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT3 driven by HYMO.
The Track
Silverstone Circuit, the hallowed turf of British motorsport, stands proudly amidst the Northamptonshire countryside. Once an airfield during the Second World War, this iconic track has been the crucible of Formula 1 racing since hosting the very first World Championship Grand Prix in 1950. Stretching over 5.891 kilometres, Silverstone is a symphony of high-speed straights and challenging corners, including the legendary Maggots-Becketts complex, where cars dance on the limits of physics.
The track's layout, with its recent modifications like the Arena section, strikes a delicate balance between honouring its rich history and meeting modern racing standards. Silverstone isn't just a track; it's an emotion, an integral chapter in the annals of motorsport where the heartbeats of countless fans have synced with the roar of engines. It's a testament to the unyielding spirit of racing, where legends like Lewis Hamilton and Jim Clark have left indelible marks on the tarmac. Each year, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone is not just a race; it's a celebration of speed, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Good news for you, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.
Analysis
The analysis below uses the Track Titan platform to compare a HYMO reference hotlap in blue to one of the Track Titan community drivers through Segment 8. Heading into the Farm complex is difficult to get the braking right at high speed. The tyres are also hot from going fast through Abbey and Village. The telemetry reveals that the community driver gets their braking just a little bit wrong. Unfortunately a little error here at such speed leads to quite a lot of time loss. They go too deep (initially taking the lead) into the right, understeering, missing the apex and compromising the entry into The Loop. The braking level is high at apex which reduces the rotation capability of the car at that point. The time loss comes from reduction in minimum speed, poor exit speed and longer route. It adds up to 0.1s by the end of the segment.
You can analyse every other turn in the Track Titan platform; see reference lap here.
You can also take it to the next level and compare it against your own driving, just sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.
Track Titan Top Tips
In sim racing, understanding the importance of tyre management can significantly enhance your performance, especially in longer races. Just like in real racing, tyres in simulators undergo wear and have optimal temperature ranges where they perform best. Managing your tyres starts with the setup. Ensure that your camber angles are correctly aligned to how you drive and the type of circuit you're racing on. Tracks with long straights and sharp corners might require different setups compared to tracks with many flowing, high-speed turns.
Additionally, your driving style plays a crucial part. Smooth steering inputs and avoiding locking up the brakes are fundamental in preserving your tyres. Remember, every time you lock up or slide, you're not just losing time but also wearing down your tyres faster. In simulators like iRacing or Assetto Corsa, tyre wear and temperature are simulated quite realistically, so adopting a driving style that minimises unnecessary tyre stress can lead to better race results, especially in endurance races where tyre management is key.
Lastly, understanding the tyre compounds available in your simulator is vital. Different compounds offer varying levels of grip and wear rates. In races where you have to pit, choosing the right compound in relation to your stint length and driving style can make a significant difference. Sometimes, a harder compound that lasts longer might be more beneficial than a softer compound that offers more grip but wears out quickly.
Don't know what you can do to go faster? Use the HYMO hotlap to find out.
To see full lap analysis of your own driving, you can sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.