Nissan GT-R not fast enough? The company is preparing a harder performance version badged V-Spec – reawakening the ‘Victory spec’ designation that has long denoted the ultimate GT-R models since the R32.
This prototype, photographed lapping the Nurburgring during an endurance shakedown, has a new front splitter, different wheels and a redesigned rear spoiler from the standard car. Nissan is rumoured to be using carbonfibre for more body parts to trim weight, while power is expected to jump compared with the regular R35’s 473bhp.
So just how quick is the Nissan GT-R V-Spec?
Those on the ground in Germany claim the car is a barely credible 18 seconds faster around the Nordschleife than the standard GT-R, lapping in less than 7min 25sec. Forget the confusing lap times – all you need to know is that it’s a blindingly fast performance, easily faster than a Porsche 911 Turbo and its ilk.
Rumours circulating on chatrooms suggest that the V-Spec model will shed around 150kg while the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 has been massaged to produce an extra 70 horsepower… The mind boggles.
Watch CAR’s video test of the Nissan GT-R vs Porsche 911 Turbo here
Click ‘Next’ to read more about the Nissan GT-RNissan GT-R: hot property
Nissan GB took 700 orders for the GT-R within 48 hours of opening the order books, it claims. First UK deliveries won’t start until March 2009, however, as the Tochigi factory struggles to sate global demand. It can only produce 1000 cars a month.
The regular GT-R has been priced lower than expected, at £52,900, but the V-Spec scooped here is likely to cost at least £10,000 more if it is to make extensive use of carbonfibre to keep weight low. However, with such a long wait for the standard GT-R, don’t expect the V-Spec model to arrive any time soon. It’s pencilled in for a 2010 release date.
UK GT-R network
Nissan has now confirmed the UK network of dealers approved to sell and service the GT-R. They must be ruing the long delay that could dampen the rapturous reception given to the performance coupe. Brits can only buy or service their GT-R at the specially appointed dealers in:
London
Tunbridge Wells
Cambridge
Bournemouth
Oxford
Exeter
Belfast
St Helens
Newcastle
Edinburgh
Why all the fuss? Check out CAR’s April 2008 issue to see why the Nissan GT-R fended off competition from the Porsche 911 Turbo, Audi R8 and BMW M3 to take our top sports car accolade
Watch CAR’s video test of the Nissan GT-R vs Porsche 911 Turbo here