Tokyo - Nissan is taking on the big European sports car makers such as Porsche and Ferrari with a revival of the GT-R that made its appearance at the Tokyo Motor Show and will hit the roads in early 2009. Described by Nissan as its "new technology flagship", the GT-R is equipped with a V6 engine and a twin turbo loader that has an output of 353 kW/480 hp.
According to company chief Carlos Ghosn that vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, competing with cars such as the Porsche 911 Turbo and Ferrari F430.
Fuel consumption figures have not been released, but according to Ghosn would be about 30 per cent less than those of its main competitors at about half the price of a Porsche 911.
This would put the GT-R in the price range of between 70,000 and 80,000 euros (100,000 to 114,000 dollars).
Some of the technological features are paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch, Bilstein DampTronic suspension, Brembo brakes and run-flat tires.
The GT-R's carbon-fibre, aluminium and steel components are assembled in a "special high-precision process, which includes a series of vibration tests. The engine and transmission are assembled by a single craftsman in a "clean-room environment," according to the car maker.
Standard safety features include a pop-up engine hood system for "enhanced pedestrian safety." Side airbags for both driver and passenger are optional.
The cabin features bucket front seats for driver and passenger, a red "engine start" button and a metallic-framed console. Exterior details include an "aero blade canopy" roof line.
