The Nissan GT-R is one of the most iconic sports cars ever built.
Known as “Godzilla” in the automotive world, this powerhouse combines cutting-edge technology, high performance, and a legacy of dominance.
Here are 12 fascinating facts about the Nissan GT-R that every car enthusiast should know.
1. The GT-R Nickname – “Godzilla”
✔ The Nissan GT-R earned the nickname “Godzilla” in the 1980s due to its dominance in motorsports.
✔ The name was first used by Wheels Magazine in Australia.
✔ It symbolizes the GT-R’s raw power and unbeatable performance.
2. The First GT-R Was Introduced in 1969
✔ The Nissan Skyline GT-R (Hakosuka) debuted in 1969.
✔ It was powered by a 2.0L straight-six engine producing 160 HP.
✔ The car was built with a lightweight chassis, making it a serious contender on the track.
3. The R32 GT-R Revolutionized Racing
✔ The R32 GT-R (1989-1994) dominated Group A racing.
✔ It featured the legendary RB26DETT engine, a 2.6L twin-turbo inline-six.
✔ It won 29 consecutive races in Japan’s Group A racing series.
4. Advanced ATTESA AWD System
✔ The GT-R uses the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system.
✔ This system dynamically adjusts power between the front and rear wheels for maximum traction.
✔ It gives the GT-R superior handling on all surfaces.
5. Hand-Built Engine by Master Craftsmen
✔ Each GT-R engine is hand-assembled by a single Takumi Master in Yokohama, Japan.
✔ The VR38DETT 3.8L twin-turbo V6 produces up to 600 HP.
✔ Every engine receives a plaque with the Takumi craftsman’s name.
6. GT-R Nismo is the Ultimate Beast
✔ The GT-R Nismo is the most powerful GT-R ever.
✔ It boasts 600 HP and features a carbon-fiber body for weight reduction.
✔ It set a Nürburgring lap time of 7:08.679.
7. Fastest Production GT-R – GT-R50 by Italdesign
✔ The GT-R50 by Italdesign is a limited-edition version of the GT-R.
✔ It produces 710 HP from a tuned VR38DETT engine.
✔ Only 50 units were made, with a price tag of $1.1 million.
8. Launch Control Makes It Insanely Fast
✔ The GT-R’s launch control allows it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds.
✔ It optimizes throttle, suspension, and traction for the perfect launch.
✔ This makes the GT-R one of the fastest cars in its class.
9. The GT-R Competes With Supercars
✔ Despite being significantly cheaper, the GT-R can rival Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and McLarens.
✔ Its performance-to-price ratio makes it one of the best-value supercars.
✔ It offers exotic car performance at a fraction of the cost.
10. The GT-R Appears in Video Games and Movies
✔ The Nissan GT-R is a fan-favorite in games like Gran Turismo, Forza, and Need for Speed.
✔ It has been featured in movies like Fast and Furious.
✔ Its popularity in gaming and pop culture has made it a dream car for many enthusiasts.
11. Nissan Constantly Improves the GT-R
✔ Since the R35 GT-R’s release in 2007, Nissan has updated it several times.
✔ Performance tweaks, aerodynamics, and suspension improvements keep it competitive.
✔ Nissan continues to refine the GT-R to stay ahead of the competition.
12. The Future of GT-R: Hybrid or Electric?
✔ Nissan has hinted at a hybrid or fully electric GT-R for the future.
✔ The next-gen GT-R might feature hybrid tech for better performance and efficiency.
✔ The GT-R R36 is rumored to bring new innovations while preserving its racing DNA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much does a Nissan GT-R cost?
✔ A new Nissan GT-R starts around $115,000, while the GT-R Nismo costs over $210,000.
Q2: What makes the Nissan GT-R so special?
✔ The GT-R combines insane performance, all-wheel drive, and racing technology, making it a supercar killer.
Q3: Is the Nissan GT-R legal in all countries?
✔ Some versions of the GT-R (like the R34 GT-R) were banned in the U.S. until 2024 due to import restrictions.
Q4: Will there be a new GT-R soon?
✔ Nissan is developing the next-gen GT-R (R36) with hybrid or electric power expected.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan GT-R is more than just a car—it’s a legend in the automotive world.
From its dominance in motorsports to its affordable supercar performance, the GT-R continues to be a dream car for enthusiasts worldwide.
