Test Drive

Live out the ultimate 1980s dream in Test Drive, the classic DOS racing game that puts you behind the wheel of the most iconic supercars of the era. Choose from five exotic beasts and hit the treacherous cliffside highway, dodging Sunday drivers, potholes, and ever-watchful highway patrols. It’s all about speed, style, and surviving the ride to the top of the mountain!

How to play Test Drive

Game Overview

Test Drive is a thrilling arcade-style racing simulation set on a dangerous, narrow cliffside road. Your goal is simple: complete five stages, reach the top of the mountain, and survive the ride. But it’s far from easy—expect tight curves, slow drivers, road hazards, and radar traps ready to end your run.

Selecting Your Supercar

After the title screen, you’ll enter the car selection screen. Scroll through five legendary 1980s dream machines using the joystick (or arrow keys on keyboard). Pick from:

• Lamborghini Countach
• Lotus Esprit Turbo
• Chevrolet Corvette C4
• Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
• Ferrari Testarossa

Each car comes with unique speed and handling stats. Press the fire button (or Z on keyboard) to confirm your choice.

Controls & Interface

On desktop, you can play using keyboard (Joystick port 2 emulation: arrow keys to steer, Z to accelerate/fire) or a connected controller. On mobile, tap controls are available for steering and acceleration.

• Arrow keys: Steer left/right
• A / Z: Change gear
• Down Arrow: Brake
• Up Arrow: Accelerate

Gameplay & Hazards

Once you’re behind the wheel, navigate a two-lane mountain road called “The Rock.” Along the way, watch out for:

• Potholes that can cause loss of control
• Sunday drivers who move slowly and block your lane
• Water slicks that reduce grip
• Radar traps and police pursuit!

Radar Detector

Mounted on your windshield, this vital gadget will beep and flash red when you’re entering a speed trap zone. If all LEDs light up, you’ve been clocked. Immediately slow down—or risk a chase! Getting caught by the police ends the game instantly.

Progression

The game is split into five stages, separated by gas station pit stops where you catch your breath. You only have five lives, so every mishap counts. If you crash or get arrested, it’s game over. Complete all stages to reach the summit and prove you’re a true test driver.

FAQ

What is the objective of Test Drive?

To reach the top of the mountain by completing five driving stages without crashing or getting caught by police.

Which cars can I choose from in Test Drive?

You can choose from five iconic supercars: Lamborghini Countach, Lotus Esprit Turbo, Chevrolet Corvette C4, Porsche 911 Turbo (930), and Ferrari Testarossa.

How do I avoid getting caught by the police?

Watch your radar detector! If it lights up and beeps, slow down immediately. If you continue speeding, you’ll trigger a chase and risk instant game over.

What platform is Test Drive originally from?

Test Drive was originally released for DOS PCs in 1987 by Accolade.

Can I change cars mid-game?

No, once you’ve selected your vehicle at the start, you’re locked in for the full drive.

What happens when I crash?

You lose a life. You only have five chances to reach the summit, so drive carefully!

Is Test Drive a realistic driving simulator?

While it features semi-realistic handling and car stats, it leans more toward arcade-style gameplay with hazards and police chases.

Are there different difficulty levels?

No official difficulty settings, but the steep learning curve and increasing hazards make it progressively more challenging.