Nissan

GT-R Nismo

Nissan GT-R: Godzilla Lives

When the R35 GT-R launched in 2007, it broke the laws of physics. It was heavy (1,740 kg), front-engined, and relatively cheap ($70k). Yet, it lapped the Nürburgring faster than a Porsche 911 Turbo. It earned the nickname “Godzilla.”

The Nismo version is the ultimate evolution of this platform.

The Engine: Takumi Craftsmanship

The VR38DETT 3.8-liter Twin-Turbo V6 is assembled by hand in a clean room in Yokohama.

  • Takumi: Only five master craftsmen (Takumi) are allowed to build the engines. Each engine bears a plaque with the builder’s name.
  • Nismo Turbos: The Nismo uses larger turbochargers taken directly from the GT3 race car.
  • Output: 600 hp and 652 Nm of torque.

ATTESA E-TS: The Grip King

The secret weapon is the ATTESA E-TS All-Wheel Drive system.

  • Rear Biased: It is 100% RWD in normal driving to preserve steering feel.
  • Reactive: It can send up to 50% of torque to the front wheels in milliseconds if it detects slip.
  • Transaxle: Uniquely, the dual-clutch gearbox is mounted at the rear of the car for weight distribution. This requires two driveshafts: one sending power from the engine to the gearbox, and another sending power back from the gearbox to the front wheels.

Launch Control

The GT-R arguably invented the modern “Launch Control” war.

  • The Launch: It holds the revs at 4,000 rpm and dumps the clutch. The computer manages traction perfectly.
  • Result: 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds. Even 15 years later, few cars can beat a GT-R off the line on a cold street.

Aging Gracefully?

The R35 has been in production since 2007. It is a dinosaur. The interior is dated, the gearbox is clunky at low speeds, and the ride is harsh. But on a track, it is still a weapon. The mechanical grip and the sheer violence of the boost make it a legend.