Nissan’s GT-R models have earned a legendary status on the track, known for their speed, precision, and unwavering performance. From breaking records to claiming victory in some of the world’s most prestigious races, the GT-R has cemented its place in motorsport history. In this article, we’ll explore 7 unforgettable racing feats that showcase why the Nissan GT-R remains a true icon of the racing world.
Contents
First Win at the All Japan Touring Car Championship (1989)
The R32 GT-R made a thunderous entry into the racing world by claiming its first victory at the All Japan Touring Car Championship in 1989. This win marked the beginning of Nissan’s dominance in Japanese motorsports, with the GT-R’s advanced all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbocharged engine setting a new standard for performance and reliability on the track.
R32 GT-R’s Unbeaten Streak in Group A Racing
The R32 GT-R earned its iconic nickname “Godzilla” after dominating Group A racing with an unbeaten streak of 29 consecutive victories from 1990 to 1993. Its advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and RB26DETT engine provided unmatched power and handling, making it a fearsome competitor that no other car could rival during this period.
1991 Bathurst 1000 Victory
The R32 GT-R made history by becoming the first Japanese car to win the prestigious Bathurst 1000 in 1991. This victory not only showcased the car’s exceptional performance on one of the world’s most challenging circuits but also solidified its reputation as a global racing icon, capable of taking on the best and emerging victorious.
Winning the 2011 Super GT Championship
The GT-R R35 claimed the championship title in Japan’s premier racing series, the Super GT, in 2011. With its advanced aerodynamics, cutting-edge technology, and relentless speed, the R35 GT-R proved that Nissan’s flagship sports car was not just a road-going marvel but also a track-dominating machine.
Victory in the 2014 Blancpain Endurance Series
The GT-R Nismo GT3 secured a class win at the prestigious 24 Hours of Spa during the 2014 Blancpain Endurance Series. This victory highlighted the GT-R’s endurance racing capabilities, with its robust engineering and consistent performance allowing it to outlast and outpace rivals in one of the toughest endurance races in the world.
Top 10 Finish at the 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans
The GT-R LM Nismo, although an experimental prototype, finished in the top 10 in its class at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2015. This achievement was notable for a car that pushed the boundaries of conventional design, featuring a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, which was a bold departure from traditional racing norms.
First Place at the 2015 Bathurst 12 Hour
The GT-R Nismo GT3 triumphed at the Bathurst 12 Hour in 2015, adding another prestigious win to its racing legacy. The car’s powerful engine, combined with its precise handling and endurance, allowed it to conquer the demanding Mount Panorama Circuit and emerge victorious.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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