New Models to celebrate Godzilla’s golden anniversary
Nissan celebrated 50 years of the iconic GT-R nameplate at the New York Auto Show, revealing an upgraded Nismo, a 50th Anniversary edition and a subtly upgraded 2020 version of its halo sports car.
All MY2020 GT-Rs benefit from new turbos focused on improved low-rpm response, a titanium exhaust, revised exhaust manifolds, a reprogrammed six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, retuned adaptive dampers and a new brake booster.
Outputs from the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 remain at 652bhp and 466b ft.
The 50th Anniversary GT-R revives the R34’s iconic Bayside Blue hero colour, complemented by white stripes. Pearl White with red stripes and Super Silver with white stripes are also available, but all 50th Anniversary GT-Rs score new interior trim in a special grey colour, claimed to be reminiscent of the night sky at twilight.
Nissan has paid particular attention to the flagship Nismo. More extensive use of carbon fibre shaves 10.5kg, the bumpers, bonnet, front guards, roof, side sill covers, boot and rear spoiler made of the lightweight material.
A further 20kg is shed thanks to lighter wheels and the adoption of carbon-ceramic brakes, while the Dunlop semi-slicks have an 11 per cent bigger contact patch thanks to a wider tread and fewer groves. The front guards now sport GT3 RS-style vents, which funnel away hot air from the engine and increase front downforce.
Local pricing is not announced, but Nissan Australia has confirmed the 2020 GT-Rs will arrive locally this year.
ABOVE Upgraded Nismo now lighter with even more grip and increased downforce
