**Edit** - First link wasn't working as expected but it turns out there's only four racing games out of Steam's linup that aren't discounted. So, here's all of the discounted racing games on Steam (and four that aren't). Have a look through and see if there are any you can recommend.

Two to start;

Race '07 £1.24

Wot I think's the best 'proper' racing sim to start with - with some practice it's entirely playable on a gamepad with all assists off and you can't go too wrong for the price. Don't worry about the DLC - all the 'Race' games are compatible online and use the same version of the engine, the different titles just contain different cars and tracks. Race '07's cars and tracks are in everything else, so you'll be able to play with everyone. Vorrin, Kelron, Target and myself have this one.

Burnout Paradise £4.99

Can't speak for the SP but the MP's a good laugh and very easy to get online with (once you've done all the EA registration bollocks). There's already at least half a dozen in this group with it so we should be able to organise some decent sessions.

Post any you think are worth a go.

Additionally, of the discounted games Zombie Driver HD, F1 2012, Bang Bang Racing, Ridge Racer Unbounded, Ignite, Super Laser Racer (?) and Nimbus (?!) have demos available.