The words “bargain” and “supercar” are rarely used in the same sentence. In fact, I’m not sure I have ever heard those two words used together to describe an automobile that wasn’t a die-cast model. Until now.
We all remember 4 years ago when the first production units started coming around, shattering Nurburgring records and making the doubly expensive Porsche 911 Turbo look slow. After sorting through their transmission woes and regaining the confidence of their consumers, Nissan has made all the right tweaks to the GT-R without much of a tweak on the price.
On the outside Godzilla has received some makeup in the form of “rectifier fins” on the front fascia, LED running lights, a modified rear diffuser, and new wheels. There are additional colors available for the 2012, including the Aurora Blue Pearl pictured. With the body modifications accounting for nearly 10% in increased aerodynamic efficiency, Nissan then moved to the powerplant.
The masterminds at Nissan HQ have made the VR38DETT motor more efficient and more powerful. A boost pressure adjustment, modified valve timing, improved exhaust flow and a better air/fuel mixture have boasted an extra 45 horsepower and 14 lb-ft of torque. These improvements also resulted in cleaner emissions and better fuel economy.
As if those tweaks weren’t enough to sell an enthusiast on this bargain buy, the interior has received a facelift as well. New stitching and carbon on the redesigned dash pad accentuates the improved navigation display, adding a little more refined class to the interior. Speaking of class, Nissan has introduced six trim levels for the GT-R. Starting at Pure (base model), model types work up from Premium to Black, Spec V, Egoist, and Club Track. The Black edition and higher have the option of sportier Recaro seats.
According to Nissan, the 2012 GT-R tore through the Nurburgring in 7:22.42 seconds, a full 1.8 seconds faster than the 2008. Updated suspension technology has given the GT-R a more comfortable ride while making it more stable on straights and more responsive to driver input.
Pure model prices start at $85,500. The Premium Edition is estimated to have an MSRP of $89,950 and the Black at $95,100. For the record, that’s a $70,000 between the Pure GT-R and the least expensive 911 Turbo. Take it from someone who has seen the two go down the strip together – at that price the GT-R is a steal.
The 2012 Nissan GT-R is by far and away the bargain supercar of the century.
