Have you tried the v14 fix? Share your experience in the comments.
If you are looking for more than just a basic fix, these "definitive" mods are frequently bundled in modern repacks: Need for Speed: Carbon - PCGamingWiki PCGW need for speed carbon pc game repack v14 fix
: Ensure you use the version corresponding to your original installation (e.g., North America users should use the North American Collector's Edition 1.4 patch). Essential Modern Fixes Have you tried the v14 fix
: Beyond just running, these fixes can reduce the "lag" and low FPS often experienced when trying to run the disc version on modern hardware. Recommended Installation Steps Essential Modern Fixes : Beyond just running, these
Modernizes the UI and HUD to scale correctly with widescreen displays, preventing the original "stretched" look.
Always scan repacks with VirusTotal. Many contain miners or adware. The safest path: buy the original disc (v1.3) or a digital key (if any exist), then apply the official v1.4 patch and the fixes above.