<![CDATA[Jalopnik: 2009 nissan gt-r]]> http://tags.jalopnik.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/jalopnik.com.png <![CDATA[Jalopnik: 2009 nissan gt-r]]> http://jalopnik.com/tag/2009nissangtr http://jalopnik.com/tag/2009nissangtr <![CDATA[LSD Lambo Doors On Nissan GT-R Turn It Into Gawdzillawful]]> We knew this day was coming. It was inevitable. LSD has created a scissor door kit designed for the Nissan GT-R. These actually meet German TUV safety requirements, but that doesn't make 'em right.

As if having a GT-R wasn't enough of a "look at me" endeavor, the scissor doors from LSD will draw even more tuner eyes toward your ride, garnering statements of awe and invocations of The Fast and the Furious. While you're out getting pink popped collar shirts and axe body spray, pick up a set for your GT-R for only 1,949€ (about $2,500).

PRESS RELEASE:

By mounting LSD wing door hinges, the legendary new Nissan GT-R becomes the absolute looker. The wing doors hinges are available with immediate effect for 1949 Euro.

The LSD wing door hinges for the Nissan GT-R feature the new GRS (Guided Roller System). It offers an adjustment possibility with the roller guidance. This results in more safety and more precise opening and closing of the door.

LSD door fittings come with a German TÜV certificate certifying that the LSD wing doors meet all safety standards.

Compared to other retrofit sets for wing doors, the LSD fittings made in Germany are more impressive due to their absolutely sound engineering and the highest-possible standard of quality. In addition, a testing laboratory accredited by the German Kraftfahrtbundesamt (Federal motoring bureau) proved in a side-crash test, that the LSD-solution patented in Germany is as secure as a door assembled in the series production. This means: the occupants safety is guarateed by the LSD door fittings in a side-crash complying with rule 96/27/EG. LSD makes a quick and easy installation possible, without any welding or repainting necessary. Another convincing feature is their perfect fit, thanks to the ability to make three-dimensional adjustments. The LSD door fittings are mounted directly at the points where the original doors were removed. With the added fittings, the otherwise unchanged original doors open first outward and then gently glide upward and stop. Adjustable buffers prevent the doors from being opened too wide or from falling downward or inward when open. A simple grip is all it takes to close the door. On the one hand, the LSD solution allows you to open the door in a outward motion with an aperture angle of approx. 30°; on the other hand, it also allows you to swing the wing door upward, and all that without any great exertion. The LSD wing doors lend any car a sensational look and are the ideal solution for all fans of unusual tuning and show cars. The LSD door fittings are available from LSD or special dealers.

All information as well as a constantly updated list of applications can be found on the Internet at www.lsd-doors.de.

[via Autoblog]

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<![CDATA[2010 GT-R Warranty Voided For Denying Nissan Access To Your Black Box Data]]> Additional exclusions unearthed in the customer disclosure form for the 2010 Nissan GT-R indicate the warranty is voided should you go insane and dyno test it or deny Nissan access to your black box data.

We're beginning to wonder why Nissan even offers a warranty on their apparently fussy supercar, as it would just better off to sell it sans protection and cut the price. It seems no matter what you do, you're bound to void the warranty in the course of enjoying the car anyway. This new agreement comes out for the 2010 model year, and in addition to the previous no-VDC launch control warranty killer, now we learn you can't even take it to a track or airstrip, run it on a dyno for purposes other than emissions testing, disconnect ANY on board computer or deny access to the data on the car's event data recorder, among many other stipulations

Reading through the agreement, it seems you aren't really the owner of the GT-R, only a minor inconvenience in Nissan's perfect engineering exercise. Complete GT-R customer disclosure form below:

GT-R CUSTOMER DISCLOSURE FORM

For use with 2010 Model GT-R

IMPORTANT Customer Information

Nissan GT-R

Congratulations on your order to purchase a new Nissan GT-R. In order to ensure a well informed decision to purchase a GT-R, maximize your driving satisfaction, and enhance your ownership experience, it is important that you understand that the Nissan GT-R is a low production, high performance sports car which has been designed and manufactured to maximize its performance capabilities. Therefore, the Nissan GT-R offers unique capabilities but also has unique characteristics that are intrinsic to the GT-R's normal operation that are outside of or different from other vehicles. Owning one therefore requires additional and special consideration and understanding regarding the GT-R's driving and operation characteristics, sounds and increased service and maintenance requirements. We encourage you to test drive your GT-R with your GT-R Certified Dealer to better understand its unique characteristics.


Vehicle Sale


You are buying one of the most anticipated vehicles recently introduced in the USA. Please read the pre-sale disclosure information. Unfortunately, because demand may exceed the monthly supply, availability of the Nissan GT-R may be limited and dealers may not have an inventory. There may be a period of time between placing an order for a vehicle and taking receipt of it. Depending on the duration, it is possible that:


There may be changes in the specifications of your vehicle, or availability of colors and features. Your dealer will be able to keep you advised of any changes.


While there may be changes in final MSRP pricing of your vehicle, in accordance with state law, your actual purchase price will be determined by your selling dealer and subject to your contract(s) with your selling dealer.


Vehicle Operations


Before operating your vehicle or contacting your dealership with concerns regarding your vehicle's operations, please carefully read your Owner's Manual, Nissan GT-R Warranty Booklet, and the Service and Maintenance Guide for necessary additional information concerning the proper operation, operational characteristics (including different types of sounds, noises or wear which are normal for this vehicle) and service and maintenance requirements.


Because the Nissan GT-R is a high performance sports car, some of the vehicle's systems operate differently and exhibit different characteristics than less sophisticated vehicles. For example (not intended as a comprehensive list – please refer to your owner's manual):


1. Brakes


The brake system is designed for and uses materials which enhance maximum performance under a wide range of operating conditions. Brake sounds such as squeaks and squeals during use are to be expected on this vehicle; this characteristic is intrinsic to this vehicle and cannot be eliminated. The rate of pad and rotor wear may also be greater than you have experienced on other vehicles.


2. Suspension


The suspension and tires are specially designed for the Nissan GT-R and are designed and calibrated for maximum road performance. The tires and suspension are calibrated to deliver vehicle performance, not a premium luxury ride. As a result, there will be more, different and louder sounds and road feel from the tires and suspension than with other vehicles. These conditions are normal and are to be expected. Different road surfaces will increase or moderate the road noise.


3. Transmission


Due to the performance capabilities and requirements of the GT-R, the sequential six-speed dual clutch transmission is unlike a typical automatic transmission. You will likely hear pronounced mechanical sounds from the transmission, particularly at slow speeds, at idle and in neutral. This condition is normal.


This vehicle is equipped with hill start assist. This system automatically keeps the brakes applied to help prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards in the time it takes to release the brake pedal and apply the accelerator pedal when the vehicle is stopped on a hill. Hill start assist is designed to hold the vehicle for only a short period of time and is not a substitute for proper driving technique.


4. Fuel Filler


When filling the Nissan GT-R with fuel, do not top off the fuel tank after the automatic shutoff activates. It is possible that spills will occur should the fuel tank continue to be filled beyond the automatic shut-off.


5. Driver Break-in Period


The Nissan GT-R requires a special break-in schedule to obtain maximum engine performance and to ensure the future reliability and maximized economy of your new vehicle. Failure to follow these recommendations may result in shortened engine life, reduced engine performance or damage resulting in repairs not covered by your warranty. Refer to the Owner's Manual for details regarding the break-in period.


Special Maintenance & Warranty


The Nissan GT-R is specially designed and engineered to maximize its performance capabilities and has unique features and service requirements requiring specially trained technicians and some specialized equipment.


1. Warranty


All warranty repairs may only be completed at a Nissan Certified GT-R dealership, and it is most highly recommended that all services be performed by a Nissan Certified GT-R dealer.


2. Delivery


Your GT-R's proper operation, including its engine and suspension settings, was specially tested by Nissan after production. Your vehicle will therefore be delivered with some mileage reflected on the odometer.


3. Performance Optimization Services


In addition to regular periodic maintenance recommended by Nissan, the Nissan GT-R requires the following special inspections to be completed at a Certified GT-R dealership at the assigned intervals. Failing to timely have these services performed will affect both your warranty coverage and your continued proper operation of and satisfaction with your GT-R:


Measurement and adjustment, if needed, of wheel alignment


Engine settings


Transmission settings


These inspections are required at the following intervals: 1,000 miles, 12 months, 24 months and 36 months. As set out in the GT-R Owner's Manual and Service Maintenance Guide, these Performance Optimization Services will be completed free of charge.


4. Maintenance Costs


Engine/Transmission: As a high performance sports car, the cost of maintaining the Nissan GT-R (parts and labor costs) will be higher than other vehicles. Among those requirements are:


The VR38 engine, with its plasma-sprayed bores, was developed using Mobil 1 (0W-40, 100% synthetic) motor oil. This oil should be used to ensure proper engine operation and durability.


The VDC unit and other related parts were specially designed for R35 Special 2 Brake Fluid. This brake fluid should be used to ensure the best performance and proper operation of the vehicle.


Genuine Nissan Transmission Oil R35 Special (100% synthetic) is unique to the Nissan GT-R and was specially developed to maximize the friction characteristics of the clutch and the lubrication of the gear bearings. This fluid is required and the use of additives is prohibited.


To efficiently transfer high power to each axle and to protect the GT-R's mechanical limited slip differential, Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 (100% synthetic) high viscosity gear oil was used.


Please also note that the coolant mixture ratio impacts cooling performance and freezing temperature. See the Owner's Manual for proper coolant mixture ratio.


Brakes: The Nissan GT-R's rotors are cross-drilled with six-piston front and four-piston rear floating calipers, helping to achieve excellent stopping performance and fade resistance. The rotors are not designed to be machined, therefore, all four sets of brake pads and rotors should be replaced at the same time. This is normal maintenance for this vehicle.


Tires: The Nissan GT-R is equipped with high performance, low profile, run-flat tires that are optimized for performance and handling. The life of these tires will be less than those of tires installed on a typical vehicle; and you are likely to experience reduced tread life, uneven tire wear and tire noise regardless of the type of tire used. In many situations it may be necessary to replace all four tires if only one tire is worn or damaged.


5. Body Repairs


Due to the types of materials used for the body and given the precise assembly of the vehicle, body damage requiring certain repairs will need to be completed at a GT-R Certified body shop. Your Nissan Certified GT-R dealership can direct you to a qualified body shop. Because of the specialized body repair requirements, it may not be unusual for the nearest GT-R Certified body shop to be a considerable distance from either the Nissan Certified GT-R dealership or your current location, requiring additional vehicle transport at your expense. Additionally, repair times for body work may require more time than you may have experienced with other vehicles.


6. Data Recorders


The Nissan GT-R is equipped with a Vehicle Status Data Recorder which is capable of recording the vehicle's operating conditions and monitoring component replacement or reprogramming and may be used to perform and administer warranty repairs. Other vehicle operational information may be logged in the Electronic Control Module and the Transmission Control Module which may also be accessed during investigations into component failure and in performing and administering warranty repairs. Additionally, the Nissan GT-R is equipped with an Event Data Recorder which records crash data in the event of a crash.


Advisory of MY2010 Specification Change


The MY2010 Nissan GT-R features enhanced programming that will optimize clutch-engagement control for improved driveability. The maximum RPM for initial start with VDC ON has been increased, providing increased power at launch with smooth and powerful acceleration which will be improved compared to the original specification MY2009 vehicles prior to implementation of this upgrade. Maximum RPM at launch with VDC OFF (which should only be used when stuck in snow or mud) has been decreased, and acceleration with VDC OFF will be moderated.


The GT-R will continue to offer supercar characteristics of exceptional handling, maneuvering, and overall driving experience. You are reminded to drive safely and obey all traffic laws. The GT-R Owner's Manual expressly warns against driving with the VDC OFF (except to free the vehicle when stuck in mud or snow) to avoid damage. Repairs for damage caused by driving with VDC OFF are expressly excluded under the terms of the Nissan GT-R New Car Limited Warranty. To avoid risk for such repairs, you are reminded to drive with VDC ON at all times. Except when stuck, there is no reason to be driving with VDC OFF.


Exclusions and Limitations to Manufacturers Warranty


Please read your GT-R Warranty Information Booklet carefully. The Nissan GT-R warranty provides you with extensive coverage when the vehicle is operated in accordance with the Owner's Manual. The warranty includes a number of other specific conditions, exclusions and limitations, which include (but are not limited to) exclusions due to failures resulting from:


Racing, competitive driving of any sort and/or any use on a track or airstrip, or otherwise not operating or maintaining the vehicle as set out in the Owner's Manual and Service and Maintenance Guide;


Operating the vehicle with the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off, except when rocking vehicle when stuck in mud or snow;


Not adhering to the service and maintenance requirements set out in the Nissan GT-R Owner's Manual and the Service and Maintenance Guide, including failures resulting from the use of non-Genuine Nissan Parts or required or recommended fluids;


Improper repairs or services rendered at facilities other than Nissan Certified GT-R dealerships;


Failing to have the Performance Optimization Services completed in a timely manner;


Genuine Nissan Parts not intended for use on the GT-R, including NISMO parts not specifically designed and manufactured for application to the GT-R, or any non-Genuine Nissan Parts;


Replacing a GT-R special specification part with a non-GT-R special specification part (see GT-R Owner's Manual for the list of GT-R special specification parts);


Operating the GT-R on a dynamometer, except a dynamometer test performed to comply with applicable local law for emissions testing.


Additionally, some modifications will VOID your GT-R New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage. Read your warranty information booklet carefully for specific details of all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions.


Important: Additional Exclusion and Warranty Voiding


Damage to the powertrain, or any drivetrain component(s) that occurs when there is a record in the Vehicle System Data Recorder (VSDR) that the vehicle was driven with the VDC off during the period when the damage was incurred is excluded from coverage under this warranty.


Adding, replacing, reprogramming, attempting to reprogram, altering or disconnecting any computer, control unit, or electronic module or deleting any or all stored information in any computer, control unit, or electronic module, or denying access to any data or information stored in any computer, control unit, or electronic module VOIDS ALL COVERAGE under the 2010 Nissan GT-R New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Such actions are also "misuse" and "tampering" as those terms are used under "What Is Not Covered" in the warranty. See your Owners Manual for additional important information and related warnings

[Corner Carvers Forum via Andi Baritchi]

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<![CDATA[Routine 18,000 Mile Nissan GT-R Service Price Tag: $2,000!]]> Edmunds Inside Line recently took their long-term Nissan GT-R in for routine 18,000-mile maintenance. Total price tag? An astonishing $2,009.67! Talk about yer high cost of ownership, eh?

Why's it cost so much? Well, for the most part, everything's par for the course — an oil filter for $6.95, six quarts of Mobil 1 Synthetic oil for $9.38 per quart. All pretty standard. Then you get to the GT-R-specific automatic transmission fluid. The lists price? $114.98 per quart. Yup, you read that right. Want to know how many quarts it takes? How about 10 quarts! Luckily, Edmunds Inside Line only needed eight and they got their tranny juice at a discount — only $84.24 per quart. But that still helps them get to a horriful (yup, there's that new made-up word again) price of $2,009.67. Talk about a needy little beast, eh? Check out the rest of the tab at Edmunds Inside Line.

Photo Credit: UnderPressure @ NAGTROC

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<![CDATA[First 2009 Nissan GT-R Crash... Caught On Video!]]> Watch on video below what happens when an over-confident driver piloting a brand-new Nissan GT-R takes off after an Evo IX MR on a curvy mountain road at night.

Let this video serve as a lesson to anyone — don't drive mad. Sure, you missed a shift or an apex. Whatever. You get pissed and you'll end up crashing. Like this unfortunate GT-R driver who ended up getting spanked by a Mitsubishi Evo IX MR.

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<![CDATA[R35 + M35 = First Nissan GT-R Wagon!]]> What you're looking at is an 'R35' Nissan GT-R front end welded to the back two-thirds of an M35 Nissan Stagea. It's called the ‘StaGT-R' and it's on show at the Nagoya Auto Trend show.


Now, this isn't not the first time the head of a GT-R has been frank-chopped onto a Stagea -– it's a popular swap in Japan -– but it's the first we've seen for the all-new GT-R. This GT-R wagon's been put together by the Japanese tuning house Kids Heart.

Obviously no one over there's been reading the GT-R manual. [Northwest Nissans via The Motor Report]

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<![CDATA[Switzer P700 GTR: Godzilla Gets Over 700 HP!]]> Switzer performance claims it's come up with a $16,650 package capable of squeezing more than 700 HP out of the Nissan GT-R without sacrificing reliability or driveablity. How'd they do it?

"We checked for pressure drops, temperature variations, everything. After replacing the stock turbos with application-specific custom units and our own unique MONSTER intercooler package, we slowly dialed up the boost, checking all the data again and again. Eventually, we ended up going beyond the limits of the standard ECU calibrations and hardware, so we built the necessary components and the data-gathering started again."

The result is a claimed 626 HP and 583 Lb-Ft of torque at all four wheels - over 700 HP at the crank. Those figures are achieved using normal 93 octane pump gas and Switzer claims the modifications don't put "unnecessary stress on the GTR's driveline."

The press release follows:

Oberlin, OH - 05MAR2009 - Switzer Debuts P700 PKG for Nissan GTR

Comparisons between Porsche's turbocharged 997 and Nissan's newest GTR have kept the automotive press pretty busy in recent months – with the general consensus being that the GTR stacks up against Stuttgart's performance icon pretty well, thank you very much. Now, however – a year after the GTR's debut – the first tuner GTRs are starting to reach customers ... which seems to beg the question: how do these tuned GTRs stack up against tuned Porsches?

Back in January, the thousand horsepower SLEDGEHAMMER 997 introduced the world to Tym Switzer and his Oberlin, Ohio-based tuning firm. With more than 15 years' experience tuning high-performance cars from Europe and Japan, Switzer is uniquely qualified to answer that question. "Compared to the Porsches, Nissan's 'Godzilla' is a different animal altogether. As an all-weather, four-passenger supercar, the GTR seems like it could appeal to the same kind of audience as the 997, but the GTR is much more of a 'digital' type of experience. It's really amazing how close these cars are, in terms of ultimate performance."

Switzer would know: for the last few months, Switzer has been carefully studying the GTR, developing a series of sensible, high-performance bolt-ons aimed at producing a streetable GTR performance package that didn't force GTR owners to sacrifice reliability or drivability.

Called the P700, Switzer's new package promises more than 700 bulletproof crank horsepower on 93 octane pump gas. "I was always impressed with Nissan's application of certain technologies. One thing I was not impressed with was the amount of 'fluff' parts I was seeing being distributed for the cars or the 'banzai' sort of crank-the-boost with 100+ octane racing fuel antics I was seeing in the aftermarket. I knew that it was important to take a look at what the car was reliably capable of, and what was really going on within the platform."

Switzer's first step was extensive data-logging and analysis. "We checked for pressure drops, temperature variations, everything. After replacing the stock turbos with application-specific custom units and our own unique MONSTER intercooler package, we slowly dialed up the boost, checking all the data again and again. Eventually, we ended up going beyond the limits of the standard ECU calibrations and hardware, so we built the necessary components and the data-gathering started again.

With more than 626 awhp and 583 lb-ft of awtq on tap, the Switzer P700 GTR is certainly set to deliver a driving experience that is many steps above Nissan's standard "Godzilla" GTR, without putting unnecessary stress on the GTR's driveline.

MSRP for Switzer's P700 GTR performance package is 16650 USD. Contact your Switzer Performance dealer for more information and compatibility with your current aftermarket hardware.

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<![CDATA[2010 Nissan GT-R Runs 0-To-60 MPH In 3.3 Seconds, Unofficially]]> The folks from GTRBlog were on hand with Nissan engineers when they pulled off a hoping-to-be-official 3.3-second 0-To-60 MPH launch with the updated launch control feature in the 2010 Nissan GT-R.

By besting their currently advertised 3.5-second run, Nissan firmly plants the car deeper into supercar territory at what is still a value price (relatively speaking). The new launch feature is primarily a software change in the transmission control unit, which decreases the max PRM at launch with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off from 4500 RPM to between 3000 and 3500 RPM.

But there's a twist: this new time was achieved while VDC was still on.

It seems the other change to VDC, which enabled a higher RPM at launch with the system on, provides enough juice to get it to there faster. We'll be curious to see what happens when they do a run with VDC off. In the meantime, the numbers aren't official yet but it was a Nissan test driver at the Nissan Tochigi test track so Nissan Japan should be announcing it any day now.

[Source: GT-R Blog]

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<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R With Updated Launch Control Still Fast]]> Owners of Nissan GT-Rs with updated launch control are starting to file their first impressions. So far, they're almost universally positive.

After the whole warranty-voiding Nissan GT-R launch control scandal, Nissan issued a software update purported to correct the problem. It affects launch control in two ways: by increasing the maximum RPM at launch with VDC on from 2,000 to 3,000 RPM and by decreasing the RPM at launch with VDC off from 4,500 to between 3,000 and 3,500 RPM.

The owner of this red GT-R, who we're sadly assuming isn't the hot chick, but the hot chick's less hot boyfriend, is reporting a 1/4 mile time of 11.347 at 120.85 MPH. That's on stock Dunlops, a stock car, stock fuel and the ECU update. He also reported that the conditions were extremely cold, which is good for power, but bad for traction.

That's a little faster than the professional drivers over at Edmunds managed in a non-updated stock GT-R during their official road test. Their Time: 11.6 seconds.

Apparently, the update, instead of slowing the vehicle down, simply leads to less wheel spin and wheel hop off the line, leading not only to smoother launches and less strain on the drivetrain, but also competitive acceleration figures. Sounds good to us, but we'll stick doing it ourselves without computer aid. (Hat tip to FikseGTS!)

[via Drag Times and NAGTROC]

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<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R Beats Porsche...Again]]> According to UK used car valuation data provider CAP, after 12 months or 10,000 miles, predicts the 2009 Nissan GT-R will be worth 84% of its new list price, besting the Porsche 911 Carrera's 64%.

Nissan's beating Porsche yet again with the GT-R, this time it's in residual value. After 12 months or 10,000 miles, independent used car valuation data provider CAP Monitor predicts the 2009 Nissan GT-R will be worth 84% of its new list price. This puts the latest Godzilla ahead of rivals from Porsche, Audi and BMW.

CAP predicts a Porsche 911 Carrera will cling onto just 68% of its value after the first year of ownership, putting another feather in Nissan's cap, and further denting Porsche's pride. We expect Porsche to react strongly by claiming they'll immediately decrease manufacturing defects to bring quality levels in line with their Japanese competitors. No, not really.

Actually, what will probably happen is Porsche will note that the new GT-R just has a "false exclusivity" due to the low levels of production numbers and limited quantities available in the first year — which probably falsely inflates the resale value.

Whatever the response, we're fairly certain that they will respond in this verbal game of ping-pong between the two automakers.

[via Car]

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<![CDATA[Hakosuka Skyline GT-R Laps Fuji Speedway]]> Enough with the GT-R already, you say? If you've chosen to never read about or watch anything related to the Nissan GT-R ever again, allow us to change your mind.

There's no commentary needed, just listen to the sweet tune of this Hakosuka GT-R's 2.0-liter DOHC S20 inline-six. There's no need to thank us. Well okay, you're welcome.


[via youtube]

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<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R Takes On The Nurburgring... In The Snow]]> The Nissan's GT-R once again proves it's a world-class supercar by taking it to the Nurburgring... in the snow. We triple-dog-dare you to try that, Porsche. All-wheel-drive snow-drifting action below.

We definitely don't condone the use of Lambo-doors, but the sheer magnitude of the cojones these guys have must be the only reason allowable for such a monstrosity.


[TeamSpeed Forums via YouTube]

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<![CDATA[Mr. Hitler, Nissan Japan Called Back About Your GT-R]]> First Hitler lost his car, now It looks like Hitler didn't know about the Nissan GT-R's limited launch control function and is getting screwed by Nissan. Oh Hitler, you're so adorable when you're angry.

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<![CDATA[Worst Nissan GT-R Crash Yet]]> This is a 2009 Nissan GT-R with 500 miles on the odometer. Or it was, until it hit something very hard and fast in Georgia. And we thought these were bad. [WreckedExotics]

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<![CDATA[Will The Nissan GT-R Blend?]]> The widely popular and oftentime misunderstood webshow, Will It Blend?, tests the world's most powerful blender against the claimed "world's fastest production car," the Nissan GT-R. So, will it blend?

Godzilla could out run the Porsche 911 Turbo on it's home turf, but can it outwit the world's most powerful blender or will it be outgunned and finally laid to rest by the BlendTec Total Blender? Watch and find out.

[via YouTube]

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<![CDATA[Hyper Power International Dyno Claims First Accurate Measurement Of Driveline Losses With Nissan GT-R]]> Horsepower at the flywheel or wheels? It's an important distinction in powertrain bragging rights. Thanks to dyno wizardry from Hyper Power International, you can now know both. MT's tried it first with the GT-R.

It's always been tough to stack up raw engine power output of the car against at-the-pavement performance. This has been the problem with dynos in the past, you either measure power on an engine dyno and don't know the power to the wheels or measure on a chassis dyno and don't know how much power the engine really makes. Rule of thumb driveline losses are never satisfying in either case and that's where Hyper Power International comes in.

Apparently, their dyno looks like any other four-wheel chassis dyno, with four big rollers to strap a car onto and sophisticated measurement equipment to test maximum output. The trick comes in when you've finished a pull and the system asks you to put the car in neutral. As the wheels and the rollers slow down, the dyno which was just used to measure power is now able to measure losses. By comparing the normal slowdown of the rollers against the slowdown with the car and all of its drag from gears, bearings, differentials and so on it can determine real driveline losses.

Motor Trend's Frank Markus was the first journo to test out the system and considering the constant automaker slap-fight surrounding the Nissan GT-R, Godzilla was the only choice for the test. The results are pretty interesting — it looks like the initial Nissan HP claims have been accurate. Of course, now there will just be naysayers wanting to see engine dyno versus chassis dyno versus Hyper Power dyno results now just to confirm Nissan isn't a den of cheaters. And by naysayers we mean Porsche. [MotorTrend]

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<![CDATA[2010 Nissan GT-R To Lose Troublesome Launch Control]]> Nissan execs have apparently told the reporters over at Edmunds Straightline that the 2009 Nissan GT-R will be the first and last GT-R with the "launch control" system as the company is tired of dealing with the warranty nightmares that have convinced people they can't do GT-R donuts. Said one high-ranking exec:

It's gone," he said when asked if launch control would return in 2010. "We just don't want to deal with the warranty nightmare anymore

Hey, but there's a silver lining.

Said the same source, "It'll make the 2009 GT-R really special. It'll be the only R35 with launch control." So remember that GT-R owners when your engine falls out of your brand new exotic car and Nissan won't replace anything because your teenage son used launch control once in his high school's parking lot in a misguided attempt to impress a girl in the marching band. [Edmunds: Straightline]

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<![CDATA[GT-R Skips Matte Black, Goes Straight To Matte Gold!]]> This matte gold Nissan GT-R was spotted in Dubai, where it was possibly turning its custom-painted nose up at the relatively gaudy all-chrome McLaren SLR. This could be a sign that the matte black trend, as exemplified by the matte black F430 and matte black Veyron, is being replaced by a new matte color. If less is more, and matte black is less, matte gold is slightly more than less.

[Head Over To Global Motors For More Photos]

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<![CDATA[Does Doing Donuts In A New Nissan GT-R Void The Warranty?]]> So now that we've learned how turning off the VDC to use the lanuch control on the 2009 Nissan GT-R can void its warranty, we're wondering if that would also include hoonage like this smoke session. Lucky for this guy, he "bought it brand new just 2 hav fun and burn rubber in. warranty dosent matter and money is not the crteria here!!!! if u know wat im sayin!!" Word. Video after the jump.


[YouTube via CBA-R35]

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<![CDATA[Godzilla Smash! Another Totaled Nissan GT-R]]> After seeing the Nissan GT-R crashed in America, in Malaysia, in Hong Kong, and on the Isle Of Man, we've found another. This white GT-R, with just 349 miles on the odometer, has shown up totaled in a Nashville auction yard. It's said to have about $55,000 worth of damage, so we're not sure anyone is going to bid very much when it hits the block today. No word on just how the GT-R got to be in this predicament, but we're pretty sure this isn't covered by the warranty.


[via The Car Lounge]

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<![CDATA[Nissan To Temporarily Halt GT-R Orders Due To Possible Production Issues]]> Nissan has instructed its Japanese dealers to temporarily halt taking orders for the Nissan GT-R, declining to offer an explanation or state when order-taking can resume. So far, the order halt only applies to home-market dealers, leading to speculation that there's an issue with a Japan-only component or subsystem. More below.

The report, from the folks over at GTRblog, states that unverified rumors claim the recent materials price-hike may be behind the stoppage — but that it may be due to assembly line maintenance or retooling too. In other words, no one except Nissan knows, and they're not talking. Perhaps it's due to Porsche finding a GT-R that was 25 seconds off Nissan's claimed Nurburgring lap time or owners finding their transmissions weren't covered in event of launch control use? Probably not. [GTRblog.com; Photo: GTR-world.net]

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