How long might this take?

From the time I click on the icon I have a black screen for about 30 seconds to a 1 minute and after that the game starts. Is there a fix?

The "City Central 1" "Time Trial" of the Street Class is impossible to complete in 59 seconds. I've got a fully upgraded Speedshifter and yet I'm always three seconds short even though I am doing everything nearly perfectly. The entering of curves and the driving itself are as good as I can make them and yet it's not enough; either you need the best car in the game or this trial is simply impossible. And no, it's not a "skill issue"; I've achieved full 100% gold in every cup, level, and class in Flatout...

Guys, i just can't seem to get past the ski jump. I tried every youtube video and forum and nothing actually works.

Does anyone know how do I get my original retail CD key back that was removed with the Collector's Edition update