Nissan GT-R

Nissan

Photo: OSX / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

The R35 GT-R. Twin-turbo VR38DETT, AWD, dual-clutch transaxle. The supercar Nissan built to embarrass Ferraris.

The Nissan GT-R (chassis code R35) is a high-performance sports car produced from 2007 to the present. The R35 dropped the Skyline name (used by previous GT-R generations) and is sold as a standalone Nissan GT-R. The car uses a hand-built VR38DETT twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a sophisticated all-wheel drive system with rear-mounted dual-clutch transaxle, and aggressive aerodynamics. The R35 GT-R debuted with 480 horsepower; subsequent updates raised this to 565 horsepower (and beyond in Nismo and limited variants). The car's combination of AWD launch capability, sophisticated electronics, and high power produced sub-3-second 0-60 times that embarrassed contemporary Ferrari and Lamborghini supercars at a fraction of the price. The R35 has been continuously refined with multiple major updates and trim variants. The R35 GT-R Nismo (introduced 2014, refreshed 2017+, 2020+, and 2024+) is the highest-performance variant. Around 600+ horsepower, stiffer suspension, more aerodynamic downforce, and chassis stiffening. Lap records at multiple tracks. The Nismo represents the pinnacle of R35 development. Production of the R35 GT-R has been remarkably long. Nissan continues to refine the car through 2024+ model years, even as competitors have launched multiple successor generations. A successor to the R35 has been hinted at but not confirmed. On WhipJury, GT-R submissions are common, particularly R35 examples in stock and modified trim. R35 Nismo cars and JDM-spec R35 examples appear regularly. The community recognizes the GT-R as one of the seminal modern supercars.

Top Nissan GT-R examples on WhipJury

1999 Nissan GT-R#1

Whip Score: 1212

The R35 platform

Nissan PM platform, hand-built VR38DETT V6 (3.8 liter twin-turbo, 565 horsepower in current trim), six-speed dual-clutch transaxle (rear-mounted for weight distribution), and electronically-controlled all-wheel drive. The combination produces sub-3-second 0-60 times and Nürburgring lap times competitive with cars costing 3-4 times more.

R35 Nismo

Highest-performance R35 variant. Around 600 horsepower, stiffer chassis, more aerodynamic downforce. Lap records at multiple tracks. Production has been limited each year. The Nismo represents Nissan's most aggressive GT-R development.

GT-R on WhipJury

R35 examples (especially clean Nismo cars) reliably top voting. JDM-spec R35 imports appear regularly. Modified R35s with extensive engine work and chassis upgrades are common. The community treats the GT-R as a benchmark modern supercar.

Frequently asked questions about Nissan GT-R

How is the R35 different from the Skyline GT-R?

The R35 is a clean-sheet design that dropped the Skyline name. Previous Skyline GT-Rs (R32, R33, R34) used the RB26DETT inline six and the Skyline platform. The R35 uses a new platform, new engine (VR38DETT V6 vs RB26DETT inline-six), and is sold as standalone Nissan GT-R rather than Skyline GT-R.

How fast is the R35?

Standard R35: 0-60 in 2.7 seconds, top speed 196 mph. R35 Nismo: 0-60 in 2.5 seconds. Faster than nearly any car at its price point. The combination of AWD launch and 600+ horsepower produces extraordinary acceleration.

Are R35 GT-Rs reliable?

Generally yes. The VR38DETT engine is durable when maintained properly. Common issues include transmission service (regular intervals), occasional turbocharger service at high mileage, and various age-related items. Maintenance costs are significant ($2,000-$5,000 per major service); but the platform is reliable for owners willing to invest in maintenance.

How much does an R35 cost?

Used pricing: $60,000-$120,000 depending on year, mileage, and condition. R35 Nismo cars: $150,000-$250,000+. New 2024 R35: starts around $115,000. The R35 has held value reasonably well thanks to extended production and limited supply at any given time.

Will Nissan make an R36 GT-R?

Periodic rumors but no confirmed announcement. The R35 has been continuously updated for 17+ years; eventual replacement is expected but timing is unclear. Various rumors suggest a hybrid or electric R36; Nissan has not confirmed plans. Production of the R35 is expected to continue at least through 2025-2026.

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The R35 GT-R engine is built by hand, by one person

Every R35 GT-R engine was assembled by a single master builder in a clean room, and signed with a name plaque. The VR38DETT is a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 that went from 480 horsepower to about 600, and it's most of why the GT-R earned the Godzilla name.

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