"A step ahead of the GT-R concept; the prototype that brings it closer to the commercial version."
The GT-R concept appeared out of nowhere in the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, gathering much attention in the world. This GT-R Proto brought the concept closer to reality as a commercial base car. There was no announcement of specifications, and it was only announced that "it would appear almost as is in 2007."
The exterior design has a burly look about it that is common with the GT-Rs of the past. It clearly contrasted with the world's super sports cars at the time, which were going towards a more classic look, and this highlighted the strong personality of the GT-R.
Because the specs were not announced, rumors were abundant. A V6 twin turbo was the correct answer for the engine, but there were talks of a large displacement V8 for the American market, and an FR layout rather than a 4WD for lighter weight. There were even rumors that it would be built at a factory in the UK due to its extreme level of performance.
The development vehicle tested on the road at the Nurburgring was based on the V35 Skyline, but after the announcement of this GT-R proto, testing began of the new body wish a disguised exterior.
The major difference with the commercial model is the large front mask with a different headlight shape, and a correction in the roof line, probably for aerodynamics. The photographs released at the time included circuit driving photographs, and it was clear that it was not just a concept car, there were at a level where it could be driven flat out.
The GT-R concept appeared out of nowhere in the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, gathering much attention in the world. This GT-R Proto brought the concept closer to reality as a commercial base car. There was no announcement of specifications, and it was only announced that "it would appear almost as is in 2007."
The exterior design has a burly look about it that is common with the GT-Rs of the past. It clearly contrasted with the world's super sports cars at the time, which were going towards a more classic look, and this highlighted the strong personality of the GT-R.
Because the specs were not announced, rumors were abundant. A V6 twin turbo was the correct answer for the engine, but there were talks of a large displacement V8 for the American market, and an FR layout rather than a 4WD for lighter weight. There were even rumors that it would be built at a factory in the UK due to its extreme level of performance.
The development vehicle tested on the road at the Nurburgring was based on the V35 Skyline, but after the announcement of this GT-R proto, testing began of the new body wish a disguised exterior.
The major difference with the commercial model is the large front mask with a different headlight shape, and a correction in the roof line, probably for aerodynamics. The photographs released at the time included circuit driving photographs, and it was clear that it was not just a concept car, there were at a level where it could be driven flat out.
