What's the news?
Nissan will show the new Nismo GT-R at the Geneva Motor Show on 4th March. Described as 'the ultimate Nissan GT-R' it has apparently been honed on the roads of Europe. It is a more powerful, aerodynamically enhanced and stiffer GT-R.
Exterior
Underpinning the Nismo modifications is a stiffer shell, thanks to adhesive bonding reinforcing the spot welded structure. On the outside a new front bumper and a carbon rear spoiler contribute towards an extra 100kg of downforce at 186mph. Usually this would mean a penalty in aerodynamic drag but Nissan claims the Nismo has a drag coefficient of 0.26, identical to the standard GT-R's. Five body colours are offered, including a dark matt grey that is unique to this version.
Interior
Carbon-fibre backed Recaro seats are fitted for the driver and front seat passenger, trimmed in black leather with red Alcantara centre panels. The same colour scheme is repeated throughout the interior including the instrument panel, door trims and steering wheel.
Mechanicals
Nissan's 3.8-litre V6 engine has gained a pair of high-flow, large capacity turbochargers. The turbochargers are also used for GT3 racing and help to raise the power output to 600hp.
The suspension hasn't been ignored; changes to the geometry are designed to improve front wheel position and increase stability in high-G situations. Large, high-rigidity bolts are used to beef up the wheel hub attachment area. There are also three-stage adjustable dampers by Bilstein and exclusive tyres developed by Dunlop.
Anything else?
European sales of the new Nismo GT-R in will start in September.
John Lambert - 10 Feb 2014