The Nissan GT-R R35, famously known as “Godzilla” and the “supercar killer,” has officially reached the end of its legendary run. After nearly two decades of dominating streets and racetracks worldwide, the iconic Japanese supercar is being put to rest.
Nissan recently announced on its website that it would no longer accept orders for the GT-R in Japan, the last market where it was still available.
“We have received many orders for the GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their support since its release in 2007,” Nissan stated.
The Birth of a Legend
The arrival of the R35 in 2007 marked the beginning of something extraordinary. Built to challenge and outperform some of the world’s best supercars, the GT-R quickly earned its fearsome reputation as “Godzilla.”
The project began in 2000 under then-CEO Carlos Ghosn and was first previewed through a series of concepts, including the GT-R Concept at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show. The production model debuted in 2007, with U.S. sales commencing in 2009. Unlike its iconic predecessors—the Skyline R32, R33, and R34—the R35 was the first GT-R to drop the “Skyline” name.
A Supercar Slayer with Unmatched Performance
Many believe the R35 was purpose-built to dominate other supercars. Even at launch, it offered an unbeatable performance-to-price ratio. Under the hood, it housed a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, initially producing 480 horsepower and 583 Nm of torque—all for a base price of just $78,000. It also featured a cutting-edge touchscreen infotainment system developed by Polyphony Digital, the creators of Gran Turismo.
Over the years, Nissan continuously refined the GT-R, improving aerodynamics, technology, and performance. The final base model delivered 565 horsepower and 633 Nm of torque, while the hardcore Nismo variant pushed an incredible 600 horsepower and 653 Nm. However, prices rose significantly, with the last base GT-R selling for $123,985, and the Nismo variant demanding an eye-watering $222,895.
The Final Curtain and an Uncertain Future
In 2023, Nissan released the last variants of the R35—the T-Spec Takumi and Skyline Limited Editions—before officially ending production. However, the company has yet to reveal a successor to the legendary Godzilla. While hints suggest that some level of electrification will be part of the GT-R’s future, no official confirmation has been made.
Complicating matters, Nissan faces challenges such as tariffs, declining sales, and a failed merger with Honda. Whether the GT-R will make a comeback remains a mystery. For now, enthusiasts and fans can only hope that Godzilla will one day rise again.
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