No big introductions are needed for these two — they are currently the best examples of what Japanese sports cars can be. The Nissan GT-R (R35) is already 11 years old, but it remains as feared a rival as it was on the day it was introduced. The Honda NSX is the second generation of the legendary Japanese sports car, and brought new technological arguments that clearly point to the future of the car species.
Is the “old” samurai ready to pack his arms and pass on the testimony to his fellow countryman, or will he still fight? That's what the British carwow was to discover, carrying out two start tests and a brake test.
The still dreaded “Godzilla”
Despite its age, we cannot rule out the Nissan GT-R. The power of its hardware is as lethal today as it was when it was first released, thanks to the constant updates it has been targeting.
Its engine is still a 3.8-litre twin turbo V6, now with 570 hp, coupled to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, with the transmission being made to all four wheels. It is capable of accelerating up to 100 km/h in an incredible 2.8 seconds, despite the weight of around 1.8 tonnes. It reaches a maximum speed of 315 km/h.
High Performance Hybrid
The Honda NSX, like the original, keeps the engine in central rear position and comes with a six-cylinder V-shaped engine. But the 3.5-liter block is now turbocharged, capable of delivering 507 hp transmitted by a nine-speed dual-clutch gearbox. .
But 507 hp is not its maximum power. The NSX actually has 581 hp, a number that is reached thanks to the adoption of a pair of electric motors — yes, it is a hybrid —, one coupled to the engine and the other located on the front axle, ensuring four-wheel drive.
The instantaneous torque of the electric motors guarantees maximum efficiency in acceleration and eliminates turbo lag. The result is an acceleration that is as effective as it is brutal, despite being as heavy as the GT-R: just over 3.0 seconds up to 100 km/h and 308 km/h of top speed.
Despite the fact that on paper the Honda NSX has a precious tenth of a disadvantage, will it be able to turn the result in the real world?