I wanted to do a post about my favorite cars, but the list was too long, so I have decided to do multiple posts about my favorite cars from different countries. This wasn't easy, because there were several cars I love from each country, so I will start with the easiest choice. The first country on the list is Japan, and the car would be the Nissan GT-R.
The GT-R started out as a Prince Skyline and has been around since 1957, but we would not see a GT-R version until 1969. The S20 inline six produced 160 horsepower, and was a front engine rear drive car. In 1973 the GT-R would go away and we would not see it again for 16 years.
In 1989 Nissan returned with the GT-R badge with the R32, and unlike the previous generations the new GT-R had a sophisticated ATTESA awd system as well as four wheel steering. The RB26dett engine produced 275 hp, and for its 31,000 price you got a lot of bang for your buck. In 1995 the R33 debut and Nissan didn't bother messing with their perfect recipe, so it was basically a new shell around the existing drive train, only minor changes were made to the oil pump and transmission. In 1999 we got the R34, which still had the same drive train, but the new GT-R was given an LCD display that gave the driver all sorts of info, it was ever gamers dream come true. Sadly, we didn't get these cars in the states, and I have only ever seen one and it was an R33, but I always wanted a R34 GT-R.
In 2007 Nissan dropped the Skyline name, and replaced the i6 with a V6. It still has the great ATTESA awd system, but the new V6 makes over 500 horsepower in the newer GT-Rs. The GT-R has always been an amazing car, and I'm sure Nissan will continue making a car worthy of its Godzilla nickname. The new GT-R is not as affordable, but for $103,000 you are getting a supercar for GT money.
