Handling in NFS Shift is still a little off compared to real life, but I'm sure we can all agree that there is no such thing as a 100% realistic game when it comes to driving. Some are very very very close, but its next to impossible IMHO.
Anyways back on track, the handling on NFS:S is the closest thing I've seen yet when it comes to driving games. (havent played any of those fancy GTR legends games etc etc. I've only played Gran Turismo for the PS2, and TDU) The cars will b-slap you if you screw up, and getting the entry and exit velocities is an important thing.
ALSO. I'm gonna admit that I have very limited driving experience, and I honestly havent taken any corners at over 100 km/h. However, I have been in a car thats taken corners at speeds up to 180 km/h and I'm gonna have to agree with the HC crowd on this one. Its all about the balance. I've kept up to normal mode cars in Tantalus for gods sake! You can drive just as fast as a normal mode person if your paying attention to the road.
Just so I can back up the car comment, heres my car that I've been working on with my dad.