
01/25/2025
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Ten Unknown Facts About
It Wasn't Always Called "GT-R"
The GT-R lineage began in 1969 with the Nissan Skyline GT-R (codenamed PGC10). The "Skyline" name persisted until the R35, when Nissan dropped it and simply named it the "Nissan GT-R."
The "Godzilla" Nickname Originated in Australia
The R32 GT-R earned the nickname "Godzilla" in 1989 after an Australian magazine called it "the monster from Japan." The name stuck due to its dominating performance in motorsports.
The R32 Was Built Specifically for Racing
The R32 was developed to meet Group A racing regulations, leading to its nickname "The Group A Special." It was so dominant that it won 29 consecutive races in the Japanese Touring Car Championship.
Hand-Built Engines (VR38DETT)
Each R35 GT-R engine is hand-assembled by a "Takumi" master craftsman in a dust-free clean room. Only a handful of Takumi are authorized to build these engines, ensuring high precision and performance.
The R34 GT-R’s Multifunction Display (MFD)
The R34 GT-R came with an advanced multifunction display designed by Polyphony Digital, the creators of the Gran Turismo video game series. It could show real-time vehicle data like boost pressure, G-forces, and more.
It's Been Banned in Certain Countries
In the U.S., the R32, R33, and R34 GT-Rs were initially not road-legal because they didn’t meet emission and safety standards. Some enthusiasts found ways to import them, but they remained "forbidden fruit" until they became eligible for import under the 25-year rule.
R35 GT-R's Dual-Clutch Transmission Innovation
The R35 was the first GT-R to feature a dual-clutch transmission. Its "launch control" system allows lightning-fast starts but was controversial early on due to drivetrain stress.
The R35 Was a Nürburgring Pioneer
The R35 GT-R set numerous lap records at the Nürburgring. Its blistering performance forced many high-end manufacturers to reconsider their designs, leading to innovations across the industry.
The GT-R Is an "Underdog Slayer"
Nissan priced the GT-R significantly lower than many supercars, yet it consistently outperformed rivals like Porsche, Ferrari, and Lamborghini in terms of acceleration, handling, and overall performance.
A Limited Gold Version Exists
To commemorate Usain Bolt's partnership with Nissan, a gold-painted R35 GT-R was made. It was auctioned for charity, making it one of the rarest GT-R models.
The Fastest GT-R
Tuned versions of the GT-R, like the Alpha Omega GT-R, have pushed boundaries. Some heavily modified versions produce over 3,000 horsepower and can hit speeds exceeding 250 mph.
The GT-R's AWD System is Unique
Nissan’s ATTESA E-TS AWD system can send up to 50% of torque to the front wheels but primarily keeps the car rear-wheel-drive for better handling and a sports car feel.
The R34’s Midnight Purple III Paint
The R34 GT-R offered a special "Midnight Purple III" paint color, which was inspired by the color-shifting effect of the McLaren F1. This rare finish made these models highly collectible.
GT-Rs Have Starred in Movies and Games
The GT-R has appeared in countless video games (Gran Turismo, Forza) and movies, most famously in the Fast & Furious franchise as Brian O’Conner's car of choice.
A Hidden Easter Egg
The R35 GT-R's taillights blink in a unique sequential pattern when the hazard lights are activated, a feature some owners love to show off.