rec.autos.simulators

I recently upgraded my DX4/120 16MB to a P200 32MBedo:-)
My expectation was that GP2 would fly - but I was very disapointed :-(
Basically I can now run in SVGA ok, but have to have most detail
turned off to get a decent fps AND stay below 100% cpu most of the
time.  I guess my system is now limited by my Cirrus CL543x PCI 2mb
graphics card - so I'm gonna replace it.  I just borrowed a basic ATI
Mach64 2mb for some comparison tests and, comparing "like for like" I
got:

                        Cirrus          Mach64
GP2LOG.TXT rating       127 (v102h)     80 (v200h)
Sitting on grid in Pole 71%cpu          57%cpu
End of first lap (3rd pos)      71%cpu          57%cpu
Mid lap (last pos)              92%cpu          58%cpu

So - the Mach64 is a fair bit better.
Now I know the Mach64 is an old/slow card too, but the
million quid question is:

WHAT NEW GRAPHICS CARD SHOULD I BUY ??

I'm not reall that bothered about all this 3D stuff - I just want kick
ass GP2 performance.  BUT, having said that, I'm tempted to get a card
that at least supports 3D - *WITHOUT compramising 2D*.

In a recent review in the UK (What Personal Computer, March 97), the
Hercules Terminator 3D seemed to be the best compramise.  2D perf was
good and, of the combined 2d and 3d cards, its 3d perf was only
bettered by the Mistque (which was significantly worse in 2d).
Sadly - I can't find anybody selling the Hercules!

I'm only willing to get either a dedicated 2d, or a combined 2/3d -
dedicated 3d cards are not an option (won't help GP2).

So, I'd be VERY grateful for any recommendations for 2d or 2/3d cards
- with specific reference to how they are likely to affect GP2.
(Ideally by email - but by all means post here)

Many thanks.
Andrew Jackson

Sorry to say....
Don't expect any big difference from a new graphics adaptor, unless you
have some faulty setup with your Mach. The Mach is not that slow, it's
major problem is missing VESA standards. (at least at the older versions
i've seen)
If you are looking at a new graphics adaptor, buy something with the new 3D
standard attached to it. I can't tell you what to buy, Rendition based
cards seems to support more games at this point, but Vodoo based cards are
probably faster. I myself bought a Rendition card, because of the more
patches released. In GP2 it gives the same framerate as a Diamond 2D or
Matrox 2D card.

Mose

The new issue of pc magazine has tested the 12 main pc graphics cards
available at the moment.

The Matrix Mystique came out tops, it said that this card was one of the
best 2d cards, and also one of the best 3d cards, (it supports both), for
speed, 2d/3d capabilities, compatibility with new programs, and price.

Peter  #:?)  Please note my real e-mail address below,