Nissan GT-R

Imagine the shock from established European and American makes, when the sleek Nissan 2009 GT-R put their beloved sports cars on the back burner. The latest bragging rights auto manufacturers are using to showcase the speed of new offerings are lap times at a famous German racetrack. Called the Nürburgring at the famed Nordschleife loop, the time to beat has been under eight minutes. And at 7.29 seconds, Porsche Turbos and a bunch of other exotics were left reeling at the shock of the Nissan GT-R, a Japanese car beating their lap times! Car aficionados will relate to the GT-R’s predecessors, Nissan Skylines, that up till now, were only sold in Japan, but highly desired in other countries.

So, how does a heavy 3,700-pound two plus two coupe attain such velocities? Big power helps, and under the hood resides a twin-turbo, 3.8-litre V-6 with plenty of high-tech tricks spitting out 480-horsepower and 430 lb-ft. of torque that can help launch the GT-R from a standstill to 60 mph in under four seconds! A dual-clutch, automated six-speed manual helps transfer the immense power to the highly capable all-wheel drive system. Filling the wheel wells are super-sticky Nitrogen-filled tires on 20-inch rims.

The front tires are sized at 255/40ZRF20, and the rear at 285/35ZRF20.This in turn allows the GT-R to effectively apply the power for tenacious grip in the corners that allows the heavy GT-R to dance around smaller and lighter vehicles like the Porsche 911 Turbo. A great feature is the Brembo high-performance braking system, that ensures fade-free braking under repeated high-speed usage. Very comforting to have, when exercising the GT-R on curvy mountain roads.

Killer looks add to the menacing profile with bulging fenders, the requisite rear wing, and large wheels. Not exactly a beautiful looking vehicle, the GT-R’s distinctively sharp and contrasting lines do lend a sinister profile that makes it a head-turner on any road. Every curve and air intake provokes the eyes as they lend some sort of functionality to aid down force for high-speed stability or for engine and brake cooling duties.

Interestingly enough, most folks recognize the GT-R and know exactly what it is except maybe for some poor unsuspecting Ferrari driver!

Inside is a functional interior with an imposing dash. The driver is faced with numerous toggle switch controls, for the various performance settings available.

Having been on numerous front covers, the Nissan GT-R is the current darling of the supercar club, thanks to its cult-like status and devastating performance. If a Porsche 911, Audi R8, BMW M3, or even Ferrari or Lamborghini bores you, the GT-R will surely rock your world!

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine: 480-horsepower, 3.8-litre DOHC V-6 twin-turbo
Transmission: 6-speed, dual-clutch automated manual
Drivetrain: All-wheel-drive
Suspension: Independent front and rear
Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS, Stability Control System
Starting Price: $89,900 (Cdn)

www.gtrnissan.com