Japanese Racing
Super Formula Pro in rFactor 2 | SF19 (SF23 Coming Soon)
What is Super Formula Pro?
Super Formula Pro is our professional-grade rFactor 2 mod featuring the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in Asia, known as Super Formula, the second-fastest single-seater category globally, second only to Formula 1. Sanctioned by the FIA and operated by Japan's premier motorsport authority, Super Formula features the most advanced racing cars built in Japan, with engines producing 550+ horsepower and power delivery rivaling Formula 2 and Formula 3.
The series attracts elite international drivers, former F1 drivers, and the best talent from Formula 2. Championships are intensely competitive, with races held on Japan's most prestigious circuits including Suzuka, Fuji Speedway, and Motegi. For professional teams seeking accurate track data, our 3mm laser-scanned Circuit Zolder demonstrates the precision we bring to all MotorLaps projects.
For sim racers, Super Formula Pro represents a sweet spot in motorsport cars with serious performance and precision demands, circuits with genuine racing pedigree, and a physics model that rewards smoothness and commitment. The progression from formula cars to Super Formula Pro in simulation mirrors real-world driver development. Teams interested in professional rFactor 2 mod development can learn from our methodology used in creating this authentic racing experience.
SF19 vs SF23 Chassis Comparison
Super Formula has evolved significantly over recent years, with the SF23 representing the current generation of technical innovation. The SF19 is currently available in Super Formula Pro for rFactor 2, while the SF23 chassis is planned for future release and will be modeled by Frederick Alonso to match real-life specifications.
Note: The SF23 comparison below shows the expected technical differences. The SF23 model is currently in development and will be released at a later date.
| Aspect | Dallara SF19 | Dallara SF23 (Coming Soon) |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction Year | 2019 | 2023 |
| Aero Philosophy | High downforce | Enhanced downforce with active aero |
| Power Delivery | Linear and predictable | More aggressive, requires precision |
| Braking Performance | Strong but forgiving | Superior brake balance |
| Setup Complexity | Moderate | Advanced more variables |
Honda vs Toyota Engines (550+ HP)
Two manufacturers power Super Formula: Honda and Toyota. While both produce 550+ horsepower turbo engines meeting identical FIA regulations, the delivery characteristics differ subtly, affecting driving style and setup optimization.
- Honda Power Units: Known for linear power delivery and predictable throttle response. Favored by drivers who prefer stable, confidence-inspiring performance and precision tuning.
- Toyota Power Units: Characterized by slightly more aggressive turbo boost characteristics and peak power delivery. Requires more precise throttle management but rewards smooth inputs with greater performance.
Professional physics development for vehicles like Super Formula requires detailed engine torque curve modeling from dyno data, accurate mass and inertia calculations, and precise tire grip modeling with optimal temperature windows. Our professional mod development approach ensures every aspect of vehicle dynamics matches real-world behavior.
Both engines deliver approximately 550 horsepower at full boost with excellent torque characteristics across the RPM range. Choice between Honda and Toyota is often a matter of team preference and driver compatibility.
Technical Specifications (SF19)
The following specifications are for the Dallara SF19 chassis, currently available in Super Formula Pro for rFactor 2:
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection (Honda or Toyota)
- Power Output: 550+ HP at 10,500 RPM
- Torque: 445 N·m (328 ft-lb) peak
- Minimum Weight: 670 kg with driver (1,477 lbs)
- Downforce: 1,500+ kg at 300 km/h (186 mph)
- Push-to-Pass System: 100 seconds per race, providing temporary power boost
Note: SF23 specifications will be available when the SF23 chassis is released.
Notable Super Formula Drivers
Super Formula has attracted world-class talent, including:
- Pierre Gasly: Multiple-time F1 driver and Super Formula champion, exemplifying the series' competitiveness
- Kamui Kobayashi: F1 veteran and Super Formula multi-champion, known for aggressive yet controlled driving
- Tsugite Nakajima: Son of F1 legend Satoru Nakajima, representing the next generation of Japanese racing excellence
- Ryo Hirakawa: Toyota's lead driver, setting the standard for technical precision and consistency
rFactor 2 Implementation Quality
The Super Formula Pro rFactor 2 implementation stands out for its technical authenticity:
- Physics Fidelity: Based on real-life data and pdf material, ensuring realistic power delivery, braking, and aerodynamic behavior
- Tire Modeling for the SF23: Yokohama tire data integrated for accurate grip and thermal behavior
- Push-to-Pass System: Authentic overtake button implementation providing temporary power boost for strategic racing
- Setup Variety: Full setup adjustability matching real Super Formula technical regulations
Platform Comparison: rFactor 2 vs iRacing vs Gran Turismo
Multiple platforms offer Super Formula content, each with distinct strengths:
- Super Formula Pro (rFactor 2): Emphasizes physics accuracy, detailed setup customization, and single-player progression. Better for serious setup development and driver training. We can provide realistic tire upgrades that match real life data, pressures and temperatures, something other platforms cannot offer.
- iRacing: Focuses on competitive multiplayer infrastructure and established esports ecosystem. Better for online racing and licensing progression. However, lacks the depth of offline customization and realistic tire physics available in Super Formula Pro.
- Gran Turismo: Offers polished visuals and accessible gameplay, making it ideal for casual racing enthusiasts and those new to sim racing. However, it prioritizes entertainment value over technical accuracy, with simplified physics and limited setup options compared to professional-grade simulators like rFactor 2.
For professional teams and serious simulation-based development, Super Formula Pro's depth, offline flexibility, and realistic tire modeling provide superior value for setup development and driver training.
Reworked Body Section by Frederick Alonso
Frederick Alonso has meticulously reworked the SF19 body section to match real-life specifications with enhanced detail and accuracy. The following images showcase the extra work that brings the Super Formula Pro mod to life.
Credits & Resources
Advanced Simulation
Online Racing
Physics: Nicola59 - Nicola Acciarri
3D Model Creator (SF19): Dessga Artstation
3D Rework & Upgrades (SF19): Frederick Alonso
SF23 3D Model (Coming Soon): Frederick Alonso
Liveries and UV Mapping: Nick9320
Sounds: L0PEX