Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community  

Go Back   Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community > Interests > Tilted Motors


 
 
LinkBack Thread Tools
Old 10-25-2007, 11:47 AM   #1 (permalink)
Tilted Cat Head
 
Cynthetiq's Avatar
 
Administrator
Location: Manhattan, NY
2008 Nissan GT-R



Quote:
NISSAN ANNOUNCES NEW NISSAN GT-R- New Dimensional Multi-Performance Supercar Available in Early December –

TOKYO (Oct. 24, 2007) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the launch of the Nissan GT-R, a new multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “an ultimate supercar for anyone, anywhere, at anytime”. The Nissan GT-R features a newly developed Premium Midship package, including the world’s first independent transaxle 4WD developed independently by Nissan. The Nissan GT-R will be available in Japan mainly through Nissan High Performance Centers nationwide from December 6th.

The Nissan GT-R was developed with a new understanding and appreciation of the Earth’s natural forces – gravity, inertial force and aerodynamics – and translates those forces into a completely new design, maximizing tire grip and airflow.

Basic vehicle dynamics and integration with the driver have also been examined, resulting in new componentry and creating a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) never seen before in the marketplace. All of these theories have been integrated to balance “speed and efficiency,” “high-output with environmental consideration” and “high performance and safety.”

Taking these factors into account, Nissan created the all-new Nissan GT-R, which offers advanced high performance for secure and enjoyable driving by minimizing the effects of climatic, road condition or driving technique limitations. The Nissan GT-R offers ultimate performance for virtually every driving situation – whether it be the Nurburgring circuit, to snow, rain or urban areas – all manageable by the GT-R driver through advanced technology and driving dynamics.

The Nissan GT-R’s unique characteristics are instilled not just in the vehicle’s design, but also through a specialized production process. Carbon fiber, aluminum and steel components are assembled with a special high-precision process, which includes a series of vibration tests. Engines and transmissions are assembled by a single craftsman in a “clean room” environment and upon completion, every GT-R undergoes a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure the proper operation of all vehicle components.

To properly support the all-new GT-R, Nissan has established special Nissan High Performance Centers, where all certified advisors and technicians have received extensive training. Total support for the GT-R owner is offered for the first three years of ownership, including measurement and adjustment of the engine, transmission and wheel alignment after the first 1000 km, and again every 12 months, free of charge.

Packaging and Driveline Suited for a Supercar
The all-new Nissan GT-R uses a Premium Midship package, an all-new, more advanced version Front Midship (FM) package utilized on other Nissan vehicles. This new package enables the use of the world’s first application of an independent transaxle 4WD system. The transaxle’s layout places the dual-clutch transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle (instead of the usual front location), which enables vehicle weight to be evenly distributed throughout the car. This gives the Nissan GT-R a superb front-to-rear weight balance, while enhancing leg and foot space and allowing for an optimal pedal layout.

Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 “VR38” engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. A secondary air management system enables the newly designed powerplant to provide approximately 40kg/m of torque during ordinary low-rev driving, which gives an optimum air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiency and helps the Nissan GT-R meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) standards in Japan.

The Nissan GT-R’s new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm. Putting the power to the ground is an all-new GR6-type dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct control.

Suspension duties are handled through a special Bilstein DampTronic*1 system, which utilizes all pertinent vehicle information to provide appropriate damping forces for all situations and helps maintain a high level of control for straight-line driving, cornering, and braking.

Braking is essential for a daily-driven supercar and the GT-R features large Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, which in combination minimize fade and provide stable braking. Run-flat tires, exclusively designed for use on the Nissan GT-R, balance high grip and all-weather capabilities and a comfortable ride in all driving situations. The tires are designed to maintain structure for 80km of travel at 80 km/h, while still providing an acceptable level of performance.

High-Performance Safety and Environmental Technologies
The Nissan GT-R offers a long list of safety and environmental features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stoplamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, “super wide beam” headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers.

Standard safety equipment includes a pop-up engine hood system for enhanced pedestrian safety, driver and front passenger SRS Air Bag System, ELR front seat belts with tension reducer, front seat belts with load limiter, and three-point ELR rear seat belts. Driver and front passenger SRS Side Air Bag System and SRS Curtain Air Bag System are offered as options.

Environmental technologies include extensive work to create an U-LEV certification in Japan for the 3.8-liter twin turbo engine and reduced levels of volatile organic compound for materials used in the car.

Functional Design – High Performance Aerodynamics and Style
The Nissan GT-R’s styling follows the function over form theory. Every styling aspect, from the overall design to the smallest details, is created to maximize the vehicle’s driving experience – as well as suggesting GT-R’s “supercar” level of performance. Utilizing advanced aerodynamics, the Nissan GT-R’s aggressive styling evokes the lines of a well-trained athlete, combining strong character lines with smooth and solid areas.

The all-new GT-R’s body is created with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness and lightness. The Nissan GT-R features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, with high front and rear downforce, which provides the GT-R with enhanced grip in all weather situations, while also enhancing fuel efficiency.

The front fenders express power and stability, while the “aero-blades” on the fenders’ leading edges provide optimum airflow around the tires and along the body. The scoop in the fenders’ trailing edges assists in providing front downforce and optimization of side airflow. The aggressive front end, with a large hood budge and single air intake, provides a sophisticated style as well as undisturbed airflow for power and cooling. New “super wide beam” headlights feature three additional sub-reflectors (compared to conventional lights) to give a wider spread to the illumination area.

The Nissan GT-R’s large, four-passenger cabin features a sloping “aero blade canopy” roofline and curved C-pillar “sword edge,” which expresses the distinctive GT-R identity, as well as facilitating air flow around the rear of the vehicle. The GT-R’s hallmark four-ring taillights, efficient rear spoiler and large, integrated φ120 exhaust tips, provides the signature rear view of the GT-R, as well as optimizing airflow along the top and under the vehicle.

The high level of advanced technology is evident even in the Nissan GT-R’s paint – which utilizes a “double clear coat” and “anti-chipping” process. The Nissan GT-R features Ultimate Silver as a special new color, which is painstakingly hand-polished by craftsman.

An Interior Suitable for Daily Driving or Supercar Duties
Key to the Nissan GT-R’s usability as a both daily driver and a high-performance supercar is its interior, which is designed to balance functionality, a sense of ease, and comfort.

Sculpted performance bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience, and soft pads are utilized on the dash in front of the passenger and doors to give an extra level of comfort and safety.

The instrument panel surrounds the driver, with all meters and multi-function meter at a uniform height to minimize the driver’s head movement when traveling at high speeds. A large center-mounted tachometer, with gear display on its upper right, as well as the easy-to-read graphics of the display, gives the driver instant detailed information, essential for the performance nature of the GT-R.

Functional style is also evident in the Nissan GT-R – each meter features a dial plate design that evokes the idea of engaged gears, as well as a three-dimensional metal-like ring, suggesting the multi-dimensional performance of the GT-R. A large, metallic-framed center console features the ergonomically designed shift lever and a red “engine start” button.

Adjustability is central to the daily-driver nature of the Nissan GT-R, with a special “set-up switch” located in the center of the instrument panel. This switch enables the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) in three settings – Normal, Comfort or R, the high-performance setting designed for the Nissan GT-R “supercar” application.

A high-speed, high-capacity CARWINGS (Japan market) navigation system, with a powerful 30GB hard disk drive, features an easy-to-use touch pad, as well as traditional navigation switches. The screen interface features not only the navigation system, but also an enriched entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD and CD player, and Bluetooth® *2 audio function.

For special use in the GT-R application, the multi-function meter also includes mechanical and driving information for safe high performance driving, including acceleration opening, brake pedal pressure, and steering angle. It also includes an “optimal gearshift map,” to emphasize economical vehicle operation.

A specially designed BOSE sound system includes two forward-facing woofers in the rear center armrest area combined with traditional door speakers. All speakers are mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which combined with the design of the system itself, provide sound quality suitable for a supercar.

Pricing and Sales Target
<Sales target> 200 units / month

Drivetrain Engine Grade Transmission Price (yen, Consumption tax included)

   GT-R GR6-type dual 7,770,000
4WD VR38DETT GT-R Black edition clutch 7,927,500
GT-R Premium edition transmittion 8,347,500


*1: Bilstein DampTronic is the registered trademark of ThyssenKrupp Bilstein Suspension GmbH
*2: Bluetooth® and the Bluetooth logo are trademarks of Bluetooth SIG Inc. of the U.S.
The wait is finally over. Okay this is just too hot. I'm looking forward to seeing these guys on this side of the Pacific as an officially sold vehicle in the US. Onto more photos...















Quote:
Specifications   click to show 
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
Cynthetiq is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 11:52 AM   #2 (permalink)
The Reforms
 
Jetée's Avatar
 
Location: Rarely, if ever, here or there, but always in transition
God, what a monster performer it will be!
__________________
As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world (that is the myth of the Atomic Age) as in being able to remake ourselves.
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Jetée is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 12:52 PM   #3 (permalink)
That's what she said
 
dirtyrascal7's Avatar
 
FYI --

7,770,000 Japanese yen = 67,909.80 U.S. dollars
7,927,500 Japanese yen = 69,286.35 U.S. dollars
8,347,500 Japanese yen = 72,957.15 U.S. dollars

Definitely an awesome car... but definitely expensive.
__________________
"Tie yourself to your limitless potential, rather than your limiting past."

"Every man I meet is my superior in some way. In that, I learn of him."
dirtyrascal7 is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 01:07 PM   #4 (permalink)
Smithers, release the hounds
 
ironman's Avatar
 
Location: Guatemala, Guatemala
Is it just me, or it has a Mustang vibe going on?
__________________
If I agreed with you we´d both be wrong
ironman is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 01:39 PM   #5 (permalink)
We work alone
 
LoganSnake's Avatar
 
Location: Cake Town
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jetée
God, what a monster performer it will be!
Quote:
NURBURG, Germany — Nissan engineers are at the Nürburgring again testing the upcoming 2009 GT-R supercoupe, and unofficial lap times suggest it may be faster than the Porsche 911 Turbo.

When Nissan's engineers returned to the Nürburgring this week with the latest GT-R prototypes, local spy photographers got out their cameras and their stopwatches. Rumors circulating around the area suggested that Nissan was planning to put the GT-R on the clock to see if it could outgun one of its key benchmarks — the Porsche 911 Turbo.

After several hot laps, our spy shooters reported hand-timed numbers in the 7:38 range. That would make the GT-R roughly 2 seconds faster than the latest 911 Turbo, which has a widely reported unofficial time of 7:40.

Like the 997 Turbo, the Nissan GT-R uses all-wheel drive and twin turbos. Most rumors put the GT-R's horsepower at around 450, but given its ability to keep pace with the 480-hp 911 Turbo, the Nissan could be pushing as much as 500 hp.

What this means to you: Anyone who doubted Nissan's ability to take on the 911 Turbo with the latest GT-R could be eating their words if these latest lap times are any indication.
Ring numbers:

Quote:
7.32 - Porsche 997 GT2 2008 (Motor Authority, Autobild, driven by Walter Röhrl, complaining after the lap that he had to pass eleven other cars "Ich musste elf Autos ueberholen")
7:32 - Porsche Carrera GT, 612 PS/ 1475 kg, definitive time Horst von Saurma (sport auto 01/04)
7.32 - Gemballa Porsche GTR 600 PS/1380 kg (Gemballa)
7:34 - Koenigsegg CCR, 806 PS/1140 kg (cold conditions), Horst von Saurma (sport auto), Oct 17-18 2005
7:38 - Nissan GT-R, 480PS/1720kg 26,600 Meter Timging September 2007
7:40 - Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, 626PS/1768 kg Klaus Ludwig (AutoBild 07/04)
7:40 - Porsche 997 Turbo 480PS/1565 kg Walter Röhrl
7:40 - Bugatti Veyron 16/4, 1001PS/1888 kg (Wheels magazine Australia, 12/05)
7:41 - Manthey Porsche GT3 M410, 413 PS/1320 kg (160.868 km/h), Lucas Luhr (Autobild 07/04)
7.42 - Corvette Z06 (Jan Magnussen)[2]
Vid of the lap: http://youtube.com/watch?v=uGe_fyhQazg
__________________
Maturity is knowing you were an idiot in the past. Wisdom is knowing that you'll be an idiot in the future. Common sense is knowing that you should try not to be an idiot now. - J. Jacques
LoganSnake is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 02:38 PM   #6 (permalink)
... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.
 
Willravel's Avatar
 
I like Porsche because they make fast cars that look good.

You'll get no argument from me that this thing is a beast on the street, but it's not much to look at. It looks like an Aztek made it with the GT-R34 and a G37.
Willravel is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 02:48 PM   #7 (permalink)
The Reforms
 
Jetée's Avatar
 
Location: Rarely, if ever, here or there, but always in transition
Quote:
Originally Posted by LoganSnake
Ring numbers:



Vid of the lap: http://youtube.com/watch?v=uGe_fyhQazg
I already knew of the record that the GT-R held at The Nürburgring, but thanks enough for the video. Hadn't seen that.


I do think that the US-spec version, though, as it happens to most, will be de-tuned and re-packaged at a lower price closer to that of the last generation Skylines. Around $55-59 K for starters wouldn't seem too unreasonable for the punch you will be buying, even if might be less than the Jap and Euro-spec versions.
__________________
As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world (that is the myth of the Atomic Age) as in being able to remake ourselves.
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Jetée is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 04:40 PM   #8 (permalink)
We work alone
 
LoganSnake's Avatar
 
Location: Cake Town
The MSRP is around $90,000 according to the person I spoke to who put a down payment on one of these.

Quote:
Originally Posted by willravel
I like Porsche because they make fast cars that look good.

You'll get no argument from me that this thing is a beast on the street, but it's not much to look at. It looks like an Aztek made it with the GT-R34 and a G37.
You're right about one thing. Guys at Porsche know how to make a fast car. Good looks? Bleh.

Not that this car will win any beauty contests...
__________________
Maturity is knowing you were an idiot in the past. Wisdom is knowing that you'll be an idiot in the future. Common sense is knowing that you should try not to be an idiot now. - J. Jacques
LoganSnake is offline  
Old 10-25-2007, 05:20 PM   #9 (permalink)
Confused Adult
 
Shauk's Avatar
 
Location: Spokane, WA
god thats ugly. i'm sorry but it looks like someone's attempt at 3d origami, with metal. the interior is hot though, i like that at least
Shauk is offline  
Old 10-26-2007, 03:45 PM   #10 (permalink)
eat more fruit
 
ChrisJericho's Avatar
 
Location: Seattle
I bet that thing is fast, but like the others have said, it's just not attractive. It looks like a mix of a ford mustang and an old Mitsubishi eclipse.

If I was going to drop that amount of money I'd just get a porshe.
__________________
"A casual stroll through the lunatic asylum shows us that faith proves nothing." - Friedrich Nietzsche
ChrisJericho is offline  
Old 10-26-2007, 04:02 PM   #11 (permalink)
The Reforms
 
Jetée's Avatar
 
Location: Rarely, if ever, here or there, but always in transition
In terms of looks, it is not that bad. It is just a slight improvement on what the horrendous 2008 GM Camaro prototype looks like.

Ex.
__________________
As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world (that is the myth of the Atomic Age) as in being able to remake ourselves.
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Jetée is offline  
Old 10-26-2007, 05:23 PM   #12 (permalink)
Psycho
 
Location: Sarasota
It looks like a Transformer.

As long as there's not an option for a good old-fashioned stick shift, I'm not a potential customer.
bodypainter is offline  
Old 10-27-2007, 10:29 AM   #13 (permalink)
Pleasure Burn
 
Painted's Avatar
 
Why can't they make sleek, good-looking cars anymore?

__________________
I came across a nice rack at the department store
Painted is offline  
Old 10-28-2007, 12:47 AM   #14 (permalink)
Insane
 
LazyBoy's Avatar
 
Location: Memphis Area
turbo 3.8l? They're everything the turbo Buicks were 20 years ago

-Will
__________________
Life is nothing, everything.....and something in between...
LazyBoy is offline  
Old 10-28-2007, 08:56 PM   #15 (permalink)
Crazy
 
Location: Australia
I just want to see one in the flesh. Cars look great as pics in magazines / on the net / tv but in person this car is going to look great!
__________________
It is not a mistake, but an experience.
i_am_not_worthy is offline  
Old 02-09-2008, 09:33 PM   #16 (permalink)
Tilted Cat Head
 
Cynthetiq's Avatar
 
Administrator
Location: Manhattan, NY
autoblog.com
Quote:
We've previously reported on how the GPS system fitted to the GT-R would remove the 111 mph (180 kph) speed limiter when the car arrives at a track, but according to Niikura, it will only work on pre-approved racetracks. However, the GPS sensor doesn't automatically remove the limiter by itself, it has to be manually changed by navigating through a series of menus on the GT-R's touch screen. While having to go to a Nissan-approved track is daft in its own right, it's even worse when you leave. After the track day, owners are required to head on over to a Nissan High Performance Center where a $1000 safety check is performed. Don't do it and the factory warranty is void.
now that's just wild!!! GPS speed limiting?
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
Cynthetiq is offline  
Old 02-09-2008, 11:08 PM   #17 (permalink)
zomgomgomgomgomgomg
 
telekinetic's Avatar
 
Location: Fauxenix, Azerona
Quote:
Originally Posted by i_am_not_worthy
I just want to see one in the flesh. Cars look great as pics in magazines / on the net / tv but in person this car is going to look great!
A friend saw this one in phoenix:



Another friend of mine showing off in Japan:

__________________
twisted no more
telekinetic is offline  
Old 02-09-2008, 11:41 PM   #18 (permalink)
Tilted
 
buttless1der's Avatar
 
Location: Willamette Valley
Quote:
Originally Posted by dirtyrascal7
FYI --

7,770,000 Japanese yen = 67,909.80 U.S. dollars
7,927,500 Japanese yen = 69,286.35 U.S. dollars
8,347,500 Japanese yen = 72,957.15 U.S. dollars

Definitely an awesome car... but definitely expensive.
When you consider the price of the vehicles it can run with the price is very reasonable.

It beats a Veyron around the ring. That says all I need to know.
__________________
The measure of any government is how they allow their citizenry to defend themselves.
-Ted Nugent
buttless1der is offline  
Old 02-10-2008, 08:07 AM   #19 (permalink)
The Reverend Side Boob
 
Bear Cub's Avatar
 
Location: Nofe Curolina
Hurray for paddle shifters!
Bear Cub is offline  
Old 02-10-2008, 09:27 AM   #20 (permalink)
Tilted
 
buttless1der's Avatar
 
Location: Willamette Valley
Quote:
Originally Posted by ChassisWelder
Hurray for paddle shifters!
Looking at this picture I would imagine paddle shifters are an option.

__________________
The measure of any government is how they allow their citizenry to defend themselves.
-Ted Nugent
buttless1der is offline  
Old 02-10-2008, 09:45 AM   #21 (permalink)
Young Crumudgeon
 
Martian's Avatar
 
Location: Canada
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jetée
In terms of looks, it is not that bad. It is just a slight improvement on what the horrendous 2008 GM Camaro prototype looks like.

Ex.
Frankly, I think I'd rather have the Camaro. Both cars are ugly, the Camaro is no slouch with an LS2 bolted to a T56 (and the RS/Z28 will likely run an LS7, when they introduce that) and for the price of one GT-R you'll almost be able to get two Camaros (pricing competitive with the Mustang, which looks to mean a base price no higher than $40 000).

Plus, the LS2 gets it's 400 horses naturally aspirated, which means you'll most likely be able to just put regular unleaded in the tank. A twin turbo V6 making over 400 is gonna need premium.
__________________
I wake up in the morning more tired than before I slept
I get through cryin' and I'm sadder than before I wept
I get through thinkin' now, and the thoughts have left my head
I get through speakin' and I can't remember, not a word that I said

- Ben Harper, Show Me A Little Shame
Martian is offline  
Old 02-10-2008, 03:56 PM   #22 (permalink)
Aurally Fixated
 
allaboutmusic's Avatar
 
I don't like the dash layout - looks too square and boxy rather than the angular lines of the body.
allaboutmusic is offline  
Old 02-10-2008, 06:06 PM   #23 (permalink)
Tilted
 
vancityboi's Avatar
 
Location: Vancouver,BC
omg i cant stop drooling.
__________________
I reject your reality and substitute my own -MythBusters
Life is easier to measure by experience points -Watch The Guild
vancityboi is offline  
Old 02-11-2008, 12:20 AM   #24 (permalink)
Aurally Fixated
 
allaboutmusic's Avatar
 
You really ought to get that checked out.
allaboutmusic is offline  
Old 02-27-2008, 03:09 PM   #25 (permalink)
Tilted Cat Head
 
Cynthetiq's Avatar
 
Administrator
Location: Manhattan, NY
Quote:
Source: Nytimes
View: GT-R Waiting Game About to End

February 24, 2008
Wheelspin
GT-R Waiting Game About to End
By PAUL DUCHENE
HARDLY a model year goes by without the debut of at least one new car that sets off a frenzied run on dealers’ showrooms. In the last decade, introductions for vehicles as disparate as the Volkswagen New Beetle, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Mini Cooper and Ford GT each resulted in months-long waiting lists, accompanied by gigabytes of Internet speculation.

So far in 2008 that must-have car seems to be the Nissan GT-R, a 480-horsepower sports coupe with all-wheel drive and a full-time cheering section. It will be available in the United States in June, starting around $70,000. Nissan plans to import 2,500 GT-Rs this year and about 1,500 annually in the future.

Typically, the cars that set off these stampedes carry names steeped in history or, at the least, a design that gestures to a beloved icon of the past. Why, then, is a car whose predecessors Nissan has never sold in the United States proving such a phenomenon?

The 2009 GT-R may be the first car whose reputation was forged primarily in the virtual world, at least in the minds of young American enthusiasts. The GT-R is a mainstay of leading video games, notably the Gran Turismo series that Sony PlayStation fans devote hours to, and was a featured star of a promotion that linked the introduction of the actual GT-R at the 2007 Tokyo auto show with the release of a special prologue edition of Gran Turismo 5.

To a much smaller group of fans in the United States — those who follow international sports car racing series — the GT-R is a high-performance hero of long standing, a car closer to meeting the definition of a supercar than any earlier effort by a Japanese automaker.

While sports cars like the Toyota 2000GT and Acura NSX were memorable, they did not attain the same level of performance — or incite the same degree of lust — as European exotics. The GT-R could be different.

The GT-R comes by its reputation honestly, having matured from Skyline models that trace their roots back to the late 1960s. The first GT-R version of the Skyline made its debut in 1969, lasting only a few years before oil shocks put the whole idea on hiatus.

Though it was nearly two decades before the model name reappeared, the GT-R’s reputation went on to worldwide recognition, mainly on the strength of its racing successes in Japan and Australia. (Until now, the GT-R was sold only with right-hand drive.)

Driving a GT-R a few years ago (the fourth-generation R34 model produced in 1999-2002 that had a role in “The Fast and The Furious” films) I came to appreciate this special machine as the automotive equivalent of a samurai sword. It seemed to be something created with such intense focus and precision that it generated its own presence.

Nissan uses the sword metaphor to describe the latest GT-R, too, pointing to the “aero blade canopy” of the passenger cabin’s roofline and describing the curved form of the rear roof pillar as a sword edge.

William Scott Wilson, a Florida-based writer and teacher who lived in Japan and has translated classics like “The Book of Five Rings” by the 17th-century swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, helped put the Japanese design discipline into perspective for me. Mr. Wilson recalled living in a village of craftsmen in Japan and visiting an 80-year-old sword maker, where he learned the history of the curved samurai sword, or katana, developed in the 10th century by folding and tempering steel many times to create a razor-sharp edge on a flexible blade.

“When a man makes a sword, there’s kinetic energy in the steel — a spirit of deep respect for what the swordsman is doing that infuses his product,” Mr. Wilson said. “By the time it has been tempered and washed, the sword gets the spirit of the man.”

Part of what makes the new GT-R so special may be the spirit of the research and development team inside Nissan that developed the car’s technology.

The designers are a tight-knit group. Peter Bedrosian, Nissan’s North American product manager for the GT-R, said. “They all wear special badges and sign secondary nondisclosure forms.

“Everything has to be perfect on these cars,” he said. “They took great pains to keep this new car a secret. We’ve had V.P.’s go to Japan, request to see the model and be told they can’t.”

The association of the GT-R with the video game world turns out to be a two-way relationship.

Not only did Nissan give GT-R data to the Sony PlayStation designers and the software developers at Xanavi Information to make sure the cars in the Gran Turismo games would be accurate, the game producers returned the favor, helping to create the car’s 11 instrument panel display screens.

Mr. Bedrosian said this relationship provides a link between generations.

“If you’re over 30, you have to be a real car nut to know about the GT-R,” he explained. “If you’re under 25, Gran Turismo has exposed you to it already.”
I found this to be very cool, I didn't know that Polyphony Digital did that for them. That's pretty cool, the instrumentation must be interesting to look at.

Quote:
Not only did Nissan give GT-R data to the Sony PlayStation designers and the software developers at Xanavi Information to make sure the cars in the Gran Turismo games would be accurate, the game producers returned the favor, helping to create the car’s 11 instrument panel display screens.

Quote:
At the Tokyo Auto Show, Nissan honcho Carlos Ghosn unveiled the GT-R. The car, which hits the US next Spring, features a multifunction dash display that was developed in conjunction with Gran Turismo Polyphony Digital. The display can monitor oil pressure, oil temp, engine coolant temp, transmission oil pressure, turbocharger boost pressure, throttle position, torque split, steering angle and lateral G-froce. The Polyphony Digital display can also log data that helps improve driving technique and can help with fuel economy. In other Polyphony Digital news, the GT-R has already popped up on Gran Turismo Prologue. There's more! Polyphony has also struck a deal with the BBC to offer episodes of car show Top Gear for download via Gran Turismo TV. Nice to see that the developer responsible for the "World's Most Realistic Driving Simulator" isn't kinda serious about cars, but DEAD SERIOUS about them. Warms the heart, don't it?
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
Cynthetiq is offline  
Old 02-27-2008, 05:55 PM   #26 (permalink)
Please touch this.
 
Halx's Avatar
 
Owner/Admin
Location: Manhattan
A $70K car that looks like a $25k car on the outside. Looks like a cross between a last generation Celica (nose), an RX-8 (fender) and a 2002 Impala (rear)

Sorta disappointed to see it.. but I dont think you can knock it when you're driving.
__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]
Halx is offline  
Old 02-27-2008, 07:03 PM   #27 (permalink)
Junkie
 
Fotzlid's Avatar
 
Location: Greater Boston area


love those seats.
Fotzlid is offline  
Old 02-27-2008, 07:14 PM   #28 (permalink)
zomgomgomgomgomgomg
 
telekinetic's Avatar
 
Location: Fauxenix, Azerona
Quote:
Originally Posted by Halx
A $70K car that looks like a $25k car on the outside. Looks like a cross between a last generation Celica (nose), an RX-8 (fender) and a 2002 Impala (rear)

Sorta disappointed to see it.. but I dont think you can knock it when you're driving.
You're seriously going to compare the rear to an Impala?? You know that Skylines have been doing the 'four round tail lights' thing for generations, and the Impala has only been doing it for half a body style (the tail lights you're thinking of started in 2003, btw)? Every time I catch a glimpse of an Impala with 'skyline' tails, (espcially silver ones for some reason) I do a double take.

I'm not saying you have to love the aesthetic, but at least don't bash the tail lights...they're the only part of the look that actually says 'Skyline.'

R31:

R32 (on the right):

R33 Coupe:

R33 Sedan:

R34:

R35:


2004 Impala:
__________________
twisted no more

Last edited by telekinetic; 02-27-2008 at 07:29 PM..
telekinetic is offline  
Old 02-28-2008, 01:55 AM   #29 (permalink)
Tilted Cat Head
 
Cynthetiq's Avatar
 
Administrator
Location: Manhattan, NY
I do the same when I see the colored rear of an Impala. There's a pair of skylines here in NYC. I see them from time to time so I'm always checking when I see the Impala.
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
Cynthetiq is offline  
Old 02-28-2008, 05:43 AM   #30 (permalink)
Please touch this.
 
Halx's Avatar
 
Owner/Admin
Location: Manhattan
Well, do I have a point or not?
__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]
Halx is offline  
Old 02-28-2008, 11:36 AM   #31 (permalink)
Lost!!
 
Scorps's Avatar
 
Location: Kingston, Ontario
Quote:
Originally Posted by Martian
Frankly, I think I'd rather have the Camaro. Both cars are ugly, the Camaro is no slouch with an LS2 bolted to a T56 (and the RS/Z28 will likely run an LS7, when they introduce that) and for the price of one GT-R you'll almost be able to get two Camaros (pricing competitive with the Mustang, which looks to mean a base price no higher than $40 000).

Plus, the LS2 gets it's 400 horses naturally aspirated, which means you'll most likely be able to just put regular unleaded in the tank. A twin turbo V6 making over 400 is gonna need premium.

Ya would rather take the raw HP of a Camaro over some import. AWD to me is to much
__________________
A.K.A. PainTrain
Scorps is offline  
Old 03-03-2008, 07:50 AM   #32 (permalink)
Upright
 
This is my new dream car. The numbers speak for themselves.

As for cars with more power, can they handle as well as accelerate?

This car is a monster value.
ancientk is offline  
Old 03-03-2008, 01:24 PM   #33 (permalink)
Lost!!
 
Scorps's Avatar
 
Location: Kingston, Ontario
Quote:
Originally Posted by ancientk
This is my new dream car. The numbers speak for themselves.

As for cars with more power, can they handle as well as accelerate?

This car is a monster value.
You can get more bang for your buck. Personally I think AWD is crap, can't have any fun
__________________
A.K.A. PainTrain
Scorps is offline  
Old 03-03-2008, 01:42 PM   #34 (permalink)
Her Jay
 
silent_jay's Avatar
 
Location: Ontario for now....
Can't have any fun? Ever watch WRC? Ever see an STI blow through twisties? I rest my case.
__________________
Absence makes the heart grow fonder

Last edited by silent_jay; 03-03-2008 at 01:46 PM..
silent_jay is offline  
Old 03-04-2008, 02:53 AM   #35 (permalink)
Psycho
 
Location: Sarasota
One of my compatriots got one and took some side-by-side comparisons with his other car for us. The GT-R is freaking XBOX huge.


bodypainter is offline  
Old 03-04-2008, 09:43 AM   #36 (permalink)
Upright
 
I forgot to add that the GT-R is practical too. I haven't sat in one yet, but I think you can realistically fit people in the backseats and it has a trunk for hauling groceries, golf clubs, etc.
ancientk is offline  
Old 03-04-2008, 10:03 AM   #37 (permalink)
Tilted Cat Head
 
Cynthetiq's Avatar
 
Administrator
Location: Manhattan, NY
Quote:
Originally Posted by ancientk
I forgot to add that the GT-R is practical too. I haven't sat in one yet, but I think you can realistically fit people in the backseats and it has a trunk for hauling groceries, golf clubs, etc.
real sports cars don't haul people and stuff... they just haul ass.
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
Cynthetiq is offline  
Old 03-06-2008, 05:28 AM   #38 (permalink)
Wise-ass Latino
 
QuasiMondo's Avatar
 
Location: Pretoria (Tshwane), RSA
Nissan recommends that you do not rice out your GT-R:

Pulled from the owner's manual in a section discussing 'Illegal Modifications'
__________________
Cameron originally envisioned the Terminator as a small, unremarkable man, giving it the ability to blend in more easily. As a result, his first choice for the part was Lance Henriksen. O. J. Simpson was on the shortlist but Cameron did not think that such a nice guy could be a ruthless killer.

-From the Collector's Edition DVD of The Terminator
QuasiMondo is offline  
 

Tags
2008, gtr, nissan

Thread Tools

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On



All times are GMT -8. The time now is 05:53 AM.

Tilted Forum Project

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.7
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Search Engine Optimization by vBSEO 3.6.0 PL2
© 2002-2012 Tilted Forum Project

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360