h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

It's worth mentioning, I think, that the whole sport received a large boost in interest by the release of a trilogy of games on Playstation (and, I think, PC) which accurately recreated the bumper-to-bumper excitement of Touring Car Racing. The games were released by CodeMasters, and the first game features commentary by Tiff Needell from BBC's Top Gear.

They're among the best racing games on the Playstation. Their unique selling point is a realism above and beyond the call of duty. Put a tyre on the grass, and you will skid. Hit another car, and you will feel, and more to the point, see the damage. It's a game (or rather a trilogy of games) for people with plenty of time to spare, as there is a wicked learning curve. But the satisfaction of fighting your way through the pack to a chequered flag is the best, in my opinion, of any game.

As a result, it kindles an interest in the real sport, and it's quite weird having never watched a real race, tuning in to the TV coverage and being able to identify the circuit after seeing only one straight and one corner... It also gives you a sense of empathy with drivers who spin off, or crash, have a bad pit stop, etc. In short, if you've played the game, try watching the sport. If you've watched the sport, try playing the game. If you've done neither... DO BOTH!