I have the same video card and the same problem. It's not the RAM, and the patch doesn't solve the problem either. Nor does having the latest drivers. I have WinMe OS, I'm guessing that marcl has WinXP. So far vsync is the only tweak that seems to help, but not enough as the stutter re-occurs but not as frequently.
I have noticed more ctds that, when I return, I must re-calibrate my steering.
I have tried all sorts off tweaks using RivaTuner, but none have helped as of yet other than vsync. I did not have this problem before directX 9, though I may try to re-install it this weekend to see if it helps. If that doesn't work, I will try more RivaTuner tweaks. If I can remember, I will report what I have found.
regards,
john