Per Nurburgring rules, cars entered need to be production-based. Nissan’s Godzilla twins are reportedly based on the Japanese-spec GT-R Club Track Edition, but boast a few small revisions, including a revised suspension, different wheels and tires, and an enormous flat-blade rear wing.
This isn’t the GT-R’s first go at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, but it is one of the first factory-backed GT-R teams to take part in the event. Gran Turismo creator/ producer Kazunori Yamauchi helped drive the only GT-R in last year’s pack to a class win, fending off three incredibly quick, factory-modified Volkswagen Golfs.
“This year will be different,” according to GT-R chief engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno. “We have two factory-backed GT-Rs racing on special Dunlop rubber. And we have a very interesting driver lineup, too!” That lineup includes GT-R development driver Toshio Suzuki, along with Michael Krumm, Tetsua Tanaka, and Kazuki Hoshino – all SuperGT racers. GT creator Yamauchi will help pilot the second car, though his co-drivers will include those developed through the Gran Turismo Academy video game and instructional program.
We won’t have to wait long to see how Nissan’s venture fares, as the Nurburgring race kicks off on May 19. Until then, watch Nissan’s background video below, or click here to see Motor Trend’s full gallery of spy shots.
