You could just update your video and sound cards... if your'e not sure how then you can just google it and you will get step-by-step instructions on how to do it.
If i'm in a race, i usually end up hitting tab and looking at the exact position of the other racers. Only then to find that i'm on the grass, doing 300 360 degree spins!
That's Great lol... the only thing that gave it away though is when you see the logo on the steering wheel, i recognise that from arcades. But, other than that, It's so real!