Tuner developing turbo V6 Camaro to take on 'Ring time for GT-R

A tuner by the name of East Texas Muscle Cars is fitting a pair of turbos to a 2010 Camaro V6 in a quest to beat the 'Ring time which is currently held by the Nissan GT-R.

The 304hp base V6 Camaro makes for an interesting car to use in their quest to best the GT-R. It will more than likely end up being the best selling version of the car. The reason ETMC chose the car and it's target is most obviously publicity. And publicity drives sales.

So how do they plan to wring out enough power and grip to accomplish their mission? ETMC is going to start with forged rods, crank and pistons in order to handle the estimated 500 horses thanks in large part to twin Squires Turbo Systems turbos. The turbos are remote mounted and bolt up under the car near the exhaust. Handling will be tightened up thanks to harder bushings and Pedders coil-overs, along with a Baer big brake kit and lightweight forged 20-inch wheels.

To further make it's point, ETMC will fly out a friend's stock GT-R to race the Camaro simultaneously. The car is set to debut at 2009's SEMA show. Let the games begin.

Video: Bugatti Veyron takes on Nissan GT-R

Fresh off it's victory on Top Gear vs. a McLaren F1, the Bugatti Veyron is apparently setting it's sights on taking out other supercars. Namely, the Nissan GT-R. If you think that this may be a mismatch of sorts for Godzilla, you may be right.

While the GT-R is a darn fast car in it's own right, when you double the horsepower and stuff it in a car that costs roughly ten times as much, it just isn't that fair. The Nissan is fast, the Bugatti is ridiculously fast. Watch the video to see just how much faster the Bugatti is.

Nissan GT-R SpecV: Video and details

Nissan maintains that the Nissan GT-R SpecV is aimed at the discerning enthusiast, the same kind of buyer that would pass up the Porsche 911 GT3 for the RS variant. For $170,000, that's a very select group of consumers, but we doubt Nissan will have much difficulty moving the 20 to 30 SpecVs it'll be producing each month when sales begin February 8th.

Peak output remains the same, at 478 horsepower, but a switch on the right of the steering wheel (shared with the cruise control) activates an electronic circuit to boost mid-range torque by 15 lb-ft (up to 449 lb-ft). A green light illuminates on the dash when the overboost function is enabled, giving drivers 80 seconds to perform any overtaking maneuvers, and then defaulting back to the standard setting.

The SpecV's carbon ceramic brakes were developed in conjunction with Brembo and are painted silver to differentiate the upgraded stoppers from the standard GT-R. Although the six-piston (front) caliper size remains the same, the discs have been upgraded to 390mm (15.35 inches) and fitted with SpecV specific brake pads. Nissan claims a weight savings of 11 pounds per corner and –2.0 Gs worth of stopping power, but the system comes at a cost: $45,000.

The 20-inch RAYS forged aluminum wheels – the same units offered on the NISMO Clubsports GT-R -- also contribute to the overall weight savings, which comes in 132 pounds lighter than the standard model at 3,704 pounds. As mentioned in our previous post, Nissan replaced several components with lightweight carbon fiber, including the seats, interior trim (even the seat-back adjuster), grille and brake ducts, along with the trick dry carbon fiber rear wing (coated in clear matte paint) that increases downforce. The Bilsteins have been retuned to be more responsive on the racetrack and the engine cover has been replaced with a SpecV-only piece. The standard GT-R hues are available, but if you want to stand out, the Ultimate Opal Black paint job will set you back an additional $6,100.

Nissan hasn't released 0-60, 0-100 or quarter mile times yet, but we expect some official figures in the coming weeks. And as for a Nurburgring time... just you wait.

South Side Performance 820 hp turbo upgrade for Nissan GT-R

Sioux Falls, South Dakota based South Side Performance is offering a set of upgraded stock turbos for the GT-R that are capable of boosting output to 820 hp when used in conjunction with other performance upgrades.



The upgrade consists of swapping out the stock turbos' center section with remachined compressor and turbine housings, sized 68mm and 53.8mm, respectively. The aluminum compressor wheel is good for up to 32 psi of boost, and since the basic hardware remains, the swap appears to be a simple bolt-on affair. According to South Side, the turbos make more power at stock boost levels and provide a linear power band throughout the rev range.



GT-RR.com is distributing the GTR820RR kit for South Side, and owners can send their stock turbos and $6,499 for the upgrade, with an approximate turnaround time of one week.



PRESS RELEASE



SOUTH SIDE PERFORMANCE INTRODUCES GTR820RR TURBO UPGRADE FOR NISSAN'S R35 GTR - CAPABLE OF MAKING 820* CRANK HP!



Sioux Falls, South Dakota (January 16, 2009) – South Side Performance is offering, for the first time in the U.S., a turbo upgrade capable of 820 HP* for Nissan's newest supercar.



After months of R and D, South Side Performance have found a turbo combination with greater efficiency, faster spooling, and a stock style fitment for ease of installation. The result is a kit capable of making 820 HP* (when combined with other modifications). Due to the high efficiency of these turbos, GTR owners can run lower boost and make more power. The result is one of the first true big power upgrades available for the R35 GTR.



Specifications:



These Garrett ball bearing turbos are a direct bolt-on that utilize CHRA oil lube and are water cooled. They require only one line to be changed and can be properly installed with basic tools and equipment. The price of the kit includes the machining each of the stock turbos and installation of an upgraded actuator, 53.8 mm turbine wheel, and 68 mm high pressure billet aluminum compressor wheel which is efficient up to 32 PSI.



The turbos were specifically designed to bring bigger power at lower boost and to utilize the fastest spooling turbos available for the size and application. The result is a turbo that makes more power at stock boost levels and starts making boost lower RPM's than stock. This combination allows your GTR to enjoy the benefits of power lower in the power band that continues all the way to redline.



Price and Availability:



This upgrade is available exclusively from our distributor www.GT-RR.com and will be available with exchange of the stock turbos for $6,499.00 or without exchange for an additional core charge. Turnaround time will be minimal, usually about one working week.

Nissan GT-R SpecV unveiled

After a year of rabid speculation and spy shots, the Nissan GT-R SpecV is finally here for our prying eyes. The next evolution of Godzilla is a limited edition that is a subtle evolution of the car that got everyone in a tizzy last year. It is what Nissan describes as a car that offers race car performance in a street legal package.



Body modifications consist of a carbon fiber rear spoiler, grille and brake ducts, along with an exclusive Ultimate Black Opal paint job. On the inside, a set of carbon fiber Recaro buckets are fitted up front, while the rear seats have been nixed to save a few pounds. Carbon fiber also adorns the center storage box, instrument panel and replaces the majority of the interior trim.



The only substantive engine modification is a new high gear boost controller that increases the amount of compressed oxygen entering the twin-turbo'd 3.8-liter V6 to deliver more torque in mid- to high-range revs. A titanium-coated exhaust and a reworked suspension is fitted underneath, and carbon ceramic brakes hide behind 20-inch NISMO wheels that conspire to reduce unsprung mass and improve braking performance.



Sales begin in Japan at seven pre-selected dealers, with pricing set at 15,750,000 yen. There's no word on whether the GT-R SpecV will make the trek across the Pacific.



PRESS RELEASE



Nissan Announces New GT-R SpecV Model



TOKYO (Jan. 8, 2009) -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009. The GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.

NISSAN GT-R SpecV



NISSAN GT-R SpecV



Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original's "ultimate supercar that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime" philosophy - taking it to an entirely new level of "oneness between man and machine." The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R's unmatched performance to even higher levels.



The GT-R SpecV's new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV's unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.



Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine's twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.



The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV's exceptional performance.



The SpecV will be sold at the following seven dealer outlets, each of which is staffed by mechanics with special GT-R SpecV training and who are knowledgeable of racing circuit driving.



Dealer outlets selling the SpecV

Ibaraki Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Mito Sennami Outlet

Nissan Prince Tokyo Sales Co., Ltd. Kamedo Outlet

Nissan Prince Nagoya Sales Co., Ltd. Fukiage Outlet

Nissan Prince Osaka Sales Co., Ltd. Horie Kawaguchi Outlet

Nissan Prince Hyogo Sales Co., Ltd. Nada Outlet

Nissan Prince Kagawa Sales Co., Ltd. Takamatsu Outlet

Yamaguchi Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Ogori Interchange Outlet



Suggested nationwide retail price (including consumption tax) 15,750,000 yen

Power Enterprises developing twin-charger system for Nissan GT-R

If your 478 hp Nissan GT-R just isn't powerful enough for you, have no fear. The tuners at Power Enterprises are working on a solution for you. PE has two kits available, and a third coming to the Tokyo Auto Salon in January. The 35GTR 560 (as in 560 hp) kit features a PE P-Map ECU, PWR Air Impulse II air filters and an upgraded intake kit. The 35GTR 600 kit has the above upgrades, plus upgraded wastegate actuators and a Supersonic Titanium 89 mm exhaust.



And if that isn't enough power for you, Power Enterprises is also working on a twin-charger setup (as in twin superchargers). A pair of Rotrex C30-94 superchargers to bump the power quotient to 650 ponies. More importantly, the superchargers should provide nearly limitless mid-range torque, making turbo lag a non-issue.

Cobra Technology Nissan GT-R

Cobra Technology has released some pictures and info on it's tuned Nissan GT-R, the Cobra N+ Tuning Concept. Here's what you need to know: When equipped with the Stage One package, output rises to 550 hp while torque grows to 500 lb-ft. So equipped, Cobra says its GT-R will run to 62 mph in under 3.5 seconds and max out at 199 mph. If that isn't enough, a planned race performance version is expected to pump out 620 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.



To get those numbers, Cobra reprograms the ECU, ups the boost pressure by 0.15 bar and modifies the air intake. A new free-flowing stainless-steel exhaust system is also in the works and the upgrades aren't just restricted to the engine bay. Cobra has worked its magic on the suspension, wheels and brakes. Three-piece, 21-inch, lightweight rollers make room for eight-piston brake calipers and 15.9-inch discs up front, and the coil-over suspension features adjustable ride height and damper rates.



The interior gets two options: luxurious Alcantara and leather, or racing-spec carbon fiber seats and a roll cage. Exterior changes include a front fascia claimed to reduce lift and improve cooling, new rocker panels, and a reworked rump with an integrated diffuser and a larger wing.



The Cobra N+ tuning program will be available when the Nissan GT-R reaches the European market in the spring of 2009. Check the press release below for more juicy details.



PRESS RELEASE



The COBRA N+ Tuning Concept for the New Nissan GT-R



Rarely has a new car attracted this much attention a full year before its official market launch. The Nissan GT-R reaches for the stars on the wings of a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 engine with 485 hp / 356.9 kW and permanent four-wheel drive. The development of an extensive tuning program at COBRA N+, the division of Cobra Technology amp; Lifestyle (Alleestrasse 15-19, D-33818 Leopoldshohe, Germany, phone +49 / (0) 52 02 / 99 92 60, fax +49 / (0) 52 02 / 99 92 50, Internet www.cobra-sor.com) that exclusively deals with the customization and tuning of Nissan automobiles, is running at full steam.



Power can only be substituted with more power. The COBRA N+ engineers are already hard at work developing engine tuning for the turbocharged engine. The first tuning stage is projected to deliver 550 hp / 404.8 kW, with an increase in torque to 680 Nm. To achieve this goal the engine electronics are reprogrammed, boost pressure is increased by 0.15 bar and the air intake is modified with sport air filters. Also under development is a free-flow COBRA N+ stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts.



Thus powered the Nissan GT-R from COBRA N+ will sprint to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, on its way to a top speed of some 320 km/h. Plans exist for a COBRA N+ RACE PERFORMANCE engine version with 620 hp / 456.3 kW and a peak torque of approximately 800 Nm.



COBRA N+ also adds further sporty character to suspension, wheels and brakes of the new top-of-the-line model from the Japanese carmaker. Three-piece, extremely lightweight 21-inch COBRA N+ light-alloy wheels are slated to fill out the space beneath the wheel arches perfectly. They'll also create the necessary space for COBRA N+ eight-piston brake calipers and 405-mm brake discs on the front axle. A COBRA N+ coil-over suspension gives the sports car even better handling. It features a multitude of selectable settings for ride height and damper rates.



The COBRA N+ tuning concept for the GT-R also includes a sporty designer suit. The front of the two-door car receives added character with a new COBRA N+ front apron with large air dams. The aerodynamic-enhancement part also reduces lift on the front axle and improves cooling-air supply of radiators and front brakes. COBRA N+ rocker panels ensure optimal air flow between front and rear wheel arches. The rear is upgraded with a new COBRA N+ rear apron with integrated diffuser, and a larger COBRA N+ rear airfoil. The COBRA N+ Speed and Stripes decal kit accentuates the striking lines of the sportscar.



For customizing the interior COBRA N+ offers two different options. Nissan GT-R owners can choose from a luxurious COBRA N+ interior with specially sewn upholstery for seats and doors, made from a high-quality combination of leather and Alcantara, and a COBRA N+ racing cockpit with ultra-light carbon-fiber racing seats, six-point seatbelts and roll cage.



The COBRA N+ tuning program for the Nissan GT-R will be available for the car's European market launch in the spring of 2009.

Hennessey offers 600hp Nissan GT-R package

The Nissan GT-R, or Godzilla as it's commonly known, is one fast car. It's also Motor Trend's Car of the Year. And next year will bring the GT-R V Spec, with more power to the tune of 520hp.



Of course, more is never enough, so Henessey is offering an assortment of upgrades that will boost a GT-R to 600hp. There are a total of seven mods in the package, and none of them seriously alter anything, like the stainless steel turbo downpipes and a wastegate actuator upgrade. But they do add 120hp to the already formidable car.



While there is no price on the package (only listed with "Call"), there is also an affordable Stage 1 kit that upgrades the car's software for an increase of 65hp and 75lbft for only $995.



Hit the link here to check out the two packages.

Garage 419 runs GT-R against rental Corvette

NOS Rental Vette vs Nissan GT-R - Garage419

The challenge sounded daunting and impossible: find a $500 car to race against a Nissan GT-R in the 1/8th mile. Host Matt Farah had the easy route, piloting a GT-R complete with 478 hp, all wheel drive, and launch control. Editor Gene Sanchez had the daunting task of finding the $500 competitor that would run with the GT-R. Sanchez had a sneaky idea, however. He rented a Corvette for $200 a day from the Hertz Fun Collection and plumbed in $300 worth of nitrous. Who won the battle? Check the video to find out.

C&D performs first instrumented tests of Corvette ZR1

Car and Driver recently strapped it's test gear to the new Corvette ZR1, and not surprisingly, recorded some impressive numbers. All eyes have been on the new super Vette as it prepares to duke it out with the likes of the Dodge Viper ASC, Nissan GT-R, and Porsche GT2. And the ZR1 appears to be equipped to more than hold it's own against the competition.



According to C&D's trusty electronic gear, the supercharged 638-hp beast knocked off a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds as it continued towards a blistering 7.6 second 0-100 mph run. The quarter mile was cracked in 11.5 seconds @ 128 mph (Chevrolet claims 11.3 seconds, but the guys at C&D didn't believe in "...that sort of drivetrain abuse" to get lower numbers).



The top speed also remains unverified as the team "ran out of room" before they could hit the claimed 205 mph. Under braking, the ZR1 set a new C&D record as it hauled itself down from 70 mph in just 142 feet. Of course, we must mention the obligatory claimed Nürburgring lap time of 7:26 (at the hands of Chevrolet). So you don't have to Google the competition's best-claimed Ring times yourself, here they are: Porsche GT2 - 7:32, Nissan GT-R - 7:29, and the Dodge Viper ACR - 7:22.

1968 Mustang Fastback from Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift on Ebay

The 68 Mustang Fastback in The Fast and the Furious : Tokyo Drift stole the show at the end of the movie, but purists surely scoffed when they realized that it was powered by a Nissan Skyline GT-R turbocharged motor.



Surely one of the only, if not the only classic Stang powered by a GT-R motor, this car is now for sale on Ebay. As of this moment the bids are up to $45,000 and the reserve has not yet been met.



A list of some of the modifications done to the car include: Wilwood four wheel disc brakes with 4 pistons up front, Volk GT-7 19 x 9 wheels up front and 19 x 10 in rear, Toyo Praxes T1R tires, KYB shocks, Flaming River rack & pinion steering, Sperco Intercooler, G Ready manifolds, N1 Magflow Exhaust, Fuel safe fuel cell with stainless lines, Global West upper lower control arms, Wenco drive shaft, 9" Currie rear end, Year One interior including new replacement seats, Hurst shifter, and front power windows.



Since completion of the movie, the fastback has been on display in a museum near Chicago. This car was only driven around 200 miles for filming purposes and was not the stunt car.



You can view the listing here.