The Evolution of the Nissan GT-R: Japan’s Supercar Slayer
The Nissan GT-R is one of the most legendary performance cars ever built. From its early days as the Skyline GT-R to the modern R35 GT-R, this car has consistently punched above its weight, taking on the world’s best supercars with cutting-edge technology and relentless performance. Let’s take a look at how the Godzilla of the automotive world has evolved over the decades.
Hakosuka GT-R (1969-1972) – The Beginning
The original Skyline GT-R (PGC10), known as Hakosuka (a mix of "box" and "Skyline" in Japanese), was built for racing. It featured a 2.0L inline-six producing 160 hp, rear-wheel drive, and a lightweight body, dominating Japanese touring car racing.
Kenmeri GT-R (1973) – Short-Lived Legend
The C110 GT-R, nicknamed Kenmeri, had the potential to continue its predecessor’s success, but only 197 units were produced before Nissan pulled the plug due to the oil crisis. It remains one of the rarest GT-Rs today.
R32 GT-R (1989-1994) – Godzilla is Born
After a long hiatus, the GT-R returned with a 2.6L twin-turbo RB26DETT engine producing 276 hp (though in reality, it made more). With ATTESA all-wheel drive and Super-HICAS four-wheel steering, the R32 was a technological marvel that dominated Group A racing, earning the nickname "Godzilla".
R33 GT-R (1995-1998) – More Refined, Still Brutal
The R33 GT-R improved on the R32 with better aerodynamics and a refined AWD system. Despite being larger and heavier, it set a record as the first production car to lap the Nürburgring in under 8 minutes.
R34 GT-R (1999-2002) – JDM Icon
Arguably the most beloved GT-R, the R34 introduced the famous multifunction display, letting drivers monitor boost, G-forces, and more. It retained the RB26DETT engine but improved handling and aerodynamics. Thanks to The Fast and the Furious and Gran Turismo, the R34 became a global icon.
R35 GT-R (2007-Present) – The Supercar Killer
Ditching the Skyline name, the R35 GT-R took Nissan’s performance game to the next level. Powered by a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 (VR38DETT), it launched with 473 hp—but constant updates pushed it beyond 600 hp in the NISMO version. With launch control and an advanced AWD system, the R35 has embarrassed supercars costing twice as much for over 15 years.
From the humble Hakosuka to the high-tech R35, the Nissan GT-R has evolved into one of the most respected and feared performance cars ever built. With rumours of an R36 on the horizon, the GT-R story is far from over. Which generation is your favourite? Let us know in the comments!