The History of Gran Turismo:
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The term "Gran Turismo" is a direct Italian translation of "Grand Touring". Although it is applied to a class of
automobiles today, it predates the automobile by a considerable amount of time. In England, as far back as the 17th
Century, Peers fo the Realm and members of wealthy families would go on long trips to travel the European
continent. The journey was the "Gran Tour", and it was an expected part of a younog gentleman's education. The
Gran Tour could last for several years, and was made by horse-drawn coach. Major Continental cities, including Paris,
and historic landmarks were stops on the route. The very final destination was always Rome, the center for European
art and culture since the Renaissance. There participants would socialize with their peers and scholars, and enroll in
courses of academic study to persue a classical education.
The carriages used for the Grand Tour acquired the name "Gran Turismo" in Italian.
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Gran Turismo 2's Reference Section / The History of Gran Turismo