Focus Auto Sales got a first look at the soon to be legendary R35 GTR. The JSpecConnect 2009 Nissan R35 GTR is a right hand drive (RHD), Japanese domestic market (JDM) version that was imported by Kaizo Industries, Costa Mesa, CA. The US version is expected to be released by June 2008. It won't even make it to the showroom floor, since most of them are spoken for and pre-sold. MSRP for the base model is around $69-70,000. On the West Coast expect a $20,000 mark up and $5-10,000 mark up on the East. I think the best buy would be a Vspec version, possibly coming out next year. Bugs will be worked out, it'll be about 300 lbs. lighter and have about 70 more HP. Plus, it'll have unique aero parts that the base model owners will be jealous over.
After lusting for years over the forbidden fruits of Japan, the R32, R33 and R34 GTRs, we finally get our own GTR. Since we are familar with the older generations we did notice a great deal of differences between the models. The first thing is its much bigger than any of the past generations of GTRs. However, if you're lucky enought to drive it you'll probably not notice it. You would be disappointed and the performance numbers wouln't be so outstanding if it weren't for the 6-speed dual clutch tranny. The tranny makes the R35 a super car, keeping the car in boost and delivering nice power throughout the power band. This makes it an ideal street car. Its unlikely that you will ever get passed on the street or freeway by any other non-modified factory car.
Next, we noticed that the car is exceptionally refined. It feels so comfortable, safe and predictable compared with the older models. The R34 seems raw and noisy in comparison. You get to high speeds quickly without realizing it. Its more quiet than a G35 and 350Z. Too quiet in fact. It could use a louder exhaust. The interior is definitely the best of the past three. Nice fitment, lovely 7" touch screen display with driver-configurable multi-function meter (lap timer, acceleration, engine vitals and more.) GPS, and XM radio.
Under the hood is a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 with 480hp, 430lb-ft torque. The infamous and potent RB26DETT inline-6 is history. I think the RB looks and sounds much meaner than the VR38DETT V6 motor. I've always been a fan of inline-6 motors from owning in the past an E36 M3 and MKIV Supra. You can't really see much under the hood of the R35. Its actually pretty boring to look at. Oh yeah, its still all-wheel drive (AWD). Enough with the words check out the pictures, videos and numbers. Here are some ground breaking performance numbers:
1/4 mile time: 11.6 sec. 118mph
0-60: 3.3 sec.
Nurburgring: 7:38
Walk around video:
Freeway run with Focus Auto Sales R34, Paul's S15 and JSpecConnect's R35:
Pictures
