Both the Corvette ZR1 and the Nissan GTR V-Spec have recently been caught testing around the Nurburgring circuit. Needless to say I think things will get interesting in the coming weeks.
Now the Nissan GTR is rumored to be aiming for a 7:24 lap time around the ring with its roughly 550hp and 300lbs lower weight. Rigged or not I think Nissan will release a car that will achieve this amazing feat.
GM has previously stated that it aims to break production lap records with the Corvette ZR1. They have also stated that the ZR1 is capable of a low 30's to high 20's around the ring. For GM to beat that record I think it would need to aim for a low 7:20 ring time. I seriously think that GM should follow the Viper SRT10 ARC example and slap a huge racing style wing ensuring plenty of downforce.
Don't get me wrong I like the weight of the corvette, the style, and its power and its braking system but seriously GM should add more down force. Miles per gallon would be affected but this car isnt intended to be a fuel sipper. Owners of gas guzzling Ferrari's and Lamborghini's are more concerned about bragging rights and performance, after all the ZR1 should be first and for most a performance machine. Another area affected would be top speed, having excellent top speed is all well and good but as seen recently with the GTR top speed of over 200mph is useless in many tracks. Again GM please aim for tons of down force, more aggressive gearing and don't skimp on your tires.
Personally I do not care if that Nissan runs the ring in less than 7 mins, does 0-60 in .5 seconds and runs the quarter in the 8's. The thing is HIDEOUS.
Personally I do not care if that Nissan runs the ring in less than 7 mins, does 0-60 in .5 seconds and runs the quarter in the 8's. The thing is HIDEOUS.
Thats true enough BUT hopefully GM has taken into account the GTR V spec being its main rival performance wise and price wise.
A loss to the Nissan GTR would severely damage the corvettes King of the Hill reputation.
Last edited by monaroCountry : 04-08-2008 at 04:54 PM.
I don't care what the Datsun, and let's not forget, Datsun is their "heritage," is capable of,. This thing is tied for ugliness with the ridiculous little Lexus sport coupe/convertible.
Imagine trying to get some of that hi-tech "wizardry" repaired?
Sorry, it's good old American Iron (or aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber) for me!
The prototype Nissan GT-R V-Spec, wearing the "Victory Specification" designation reserved for the ultra high-performance Nissan GT-R, has been caught lapping the famed Nürburgring at an incredible, if not simply unbelievable, 7:25 per lap. This, according to bystanders trackside. (For comparison, Walter Röhrl lapped the Ring in 7:28 while driving a Porsche Carrera GT in 2004.)
In contrast to the standard Nissan GT-R, that made the run around the 'Ring in 7:38, the GT-R V-Spec has a new front splitter, modified rear spoiler, and different wheels. A more extensive use of carbon fiber has reportedly reduced the weight by upwards of 330 pounds. Of course, Nissan engineers also tweaked the twin-turbo powerplant for another 70 horses... or so. Thanks for the tip, XeroK00L!
Am I the only one who doesn't like the looks of this ZR-1? Maybe it's just these pix...
As for the Nissan, I'd love to put a GTR in the garage right between the wiff's '57 Bird and my Z06 (in front of the new John Deere Z225 Zero-Turn... I can't WAIT for the grass to grow!).
The ZR1 is not aimed at the road course crowd. GM has so stated many times. The Z06 is the choice for track use. Of course, the ZR1's power will make it a great track car for a few laps, enough to set the bar very high.
Now as for looks, that ZR1 hood is stupid. Clear plexi to show an engine cover. Geez.
It's not light, but the GT-R was still able to lap better times than a Z06 and a 997 turbo in a recent magazine article (about five seconds faster). The V-Spec shown above is going to be lighter and have more power than the GT-R that beat the Z06 on the track.
I wouldn't be too concerned about weight: the new Bentley Continental GT Speed weighs 5200 lbs (before driver) and does 0-60 in 4.0 seconds.
Obviously I lean toward the ZR1! But, they are both really nice cars. They will both be extremely hard to get. I used to run a Nissan store and for the last 2 years people have been coming in asking for the car and to be put on the list. Now I run a Chevrolet store and have just as many people coming in asking for the ZR1. I'd take either!!
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