Nissan GT-R Nismo Ultimate Hyper Beast?
Nissan GT-R Nismo: Is It the Ultimate Hyper Car?
When it comes to hyper cars, few names carry as much weight as the Nissan GT-R Nismo . Known affectionately as “Godzilla,” this car has long been a favorite among speed enthusiasts. But does the Nismo version live up to the hype? Let’s dive into what makes this car stand out—and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.
Why the Nissan GT-R Nismo Catches Eyes
The Nissan GT-R Nismo is an absolute showstopper. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you’ll notice the aggressive carbon fiber upgrades that scream performance. The most striking feature? That massive rear wing—yes, it’s carbon fiber too, and it even has a built-in brake light. Cool, right?
But the carbon fiber doesn’t stop there. You’ll find it on the hood, roof, front splitter, and side skirts. And let’s not forget the red accents sprinkled throughout the exterior. These touches give the car a bold, track-ready aesthetic. However, that huge rear wing might make rear visibility a challenge, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to drive it daily.
Inside the Nissan GT-R Nismo: A Driver-Focused Cabin
Step inside the GT-R Nismo , and you’re greeted by carbon-backed bucket seats from Recaro. These are exclusive to the Nismo model and hug you like a vice during high-speed maneuvers. The interior also features Alcantara on the steering wheel, dashboard, and roof lining, adding a touch of luxury to the sporty vibe.
However, there’s no denying that the interior shows its age. The infotainment system is laggy, slow, and lacks modern features like Android Auto (though Apple CarPlay is available). If tech is important to you, this aspect might feel like a step backward.
Performance That Blows Your Mind
Under the hood lies a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine , hand-built by one of only five master craftsmen in the world. With 600 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque , it’s a beast. But here’s the kicker: while 600 hp is impressive, it’s only 30 hp more than the standard GT-R. For a car that costs £180,000 , some might argue it should pack more punch—like 700 hp, for instance.
That said, the turbochargers come straight from Nissan’s GT racing program, delivering instant spool-up and spine-tingling acceleration. In second gear, around 3000 RPM, the thrust hits you like a freight train. It’s raw, unfiltered power that makes you feel alive.
Driving Experience: Pure Adrenaline
Driving the Nissan GT-R Nismo is like having a controlled explosion at your fingertips. The turbos spool up instantly, delivering mind-bending acceleration. Yet, despite its brute force, the car remains composed, offering exceptional grip and feedback through the seat of your pants.
The hydraulically assisted steering feels pure, connecting you directly to the road—or track—in ways modern electric systems simply can’t match. On the flip side, the ride can feel firm and tiresome over long distances. Plus, the turning circle is atrocious, making city driving a bit of a chore.
Stopping Power: Brakes You Can Trust
One area where the GT-R Nismo truly shines is braking. These are the largest brakes ever fitted to a Japanese production car, with 410mm carbon-ceramic discs gripped by six-piston calipers at the front and 390mm discs with four-piston calipers at the rear. During testing, the car stopped in just 43 meters —impressive for a vehicle of its size and power.
Practicality? Not Really Its Strong Suit
Let’s address the elephant in the room: practicality. The back seats are cramped, and headroom is virtually nonexistent. This isn’t a car you’d use for long journeys or Uber gigs. However, the 315-liter trunk space is surprisingly generous for a performance car, making it slightly more usable than competitors like the Porsche 911 Turbo S or Audi R8.
Price Tag: Worth It or Not?
At £180,000 , the Nissan GT-R Nismo sits in supercar territory. For that kind of money, you could opt for a McLaren GT or Lamborghini Huracán, both of which offer more power and prestige. So, should you buy it?
- Pros: Track-focused upgrades, stunning design, unmatched heritage.
- Cons: High price, dated interior, limited practicality.
If you’re a die-hard GT-R fan with deep pockets, this car is the ultimate expression of Nissan’s engineering prowess. But for most buyers, a Porsche 911 Turbo S or similar supercar might offer better value.
Final Thoughts: Is the Nissan GT-R Nismo the Ultimate Hyper Car?
The Nissan GT-R Nismo is a car that commands respect. It’s raw, powerful, and unapologetically old-school in a world dominated by hybrid hypercars. While it may not be perfect, it’s undeniably special. Whether you’re tearing up the track or turning heads on the street, this Godzilla will leave a lasting impression.
