Nissan GT-R: what kind of drive does the legendary “Godzilla” have and why is it important

Nissan GT-R — a car that made the world talk about the Japanese auto industry in a new way. Since debut R32 in 1989 until modern R35, this sports car remains the standard for the combination of technology, dynamics and reliability. But one question torments beginners and experienced car enthusiasts: what kind of drive does the Nissan GT-R have? The answer seems obvious - complete. But why exactly? How the system works ATTESA E-TS, and how it differs from competitors like Porsche 911 or Audi R8?

In this article we will look at:

• 🔧 Drive type in all generations GT-R (R32, R33, R34, R35) and their key differences.
• 🛠️ How ATTESA E-TS works — revolutionary all-wheel drive system from Nissan.
• ⚡ Why the GT-R is always all-wheel drive, and what advantages it gives on the track and in the city.
• 📊 Comparison with competitors: Porsche 911, Audi R8, BMW M5.
• ⚠️ Common Myths about the GT-R drive and real facts.

If you are planning a purchase GT-R, modifying it or just want to understand why this car is so loved by drifters and track day racers - read on.

1. Nissan GT-R: always all-wheel drive, but not like everyone else

Disputes about what kind of drive does the Nissan GT-R have?, often arise due to confusion with other sports cars. Many people think that GT-R can be rear wheel drive like Toyota Supra or Nissan 370Z. But that's not true. All generations of the GT-R (R32, R33, R34, R35) were equipped exclusively with all-wheel drive with the ATTESA E-TS system.

However, all-wheel drive is different from all-wheel drive. Unlike symmetrical Subaru WRX STI or Audi Quattro, where the power distribution is close to 50:50, GT-R uses variable torque distribution between axes. In normal mode until 90-95% power may go to the rear axle, but when slipping, the system instantly redirects up to 50% to the front.

This solution allowed:

• 🚀 Save sporty character rear-wheel drive car (with a tendency to controlled skidding).
• 🛡️ Boost sustainability at high speeds and in turns.
• 🏁 Improve accelerating dynamics due to the absence of wheel slip.

⚠️ Attention: There are “converted” GT-Rs on the market with front-wheel drive disabled (for example, for drifting). This non-factory modification, which requires deep intervention in the transmission and electronics. Such cars void their warranty and can be dangerous to drive.

2. ATTESA E-TS: the heart of the GT-R's all-wheel drive

ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain) is a proprietary development Nissan, which debuted on Skyline GT-R R32 in 1989. The system has evolved with each generation, but the principle remains the same: electronic control of torque distribution between axles.

How it works:

1. Sensors for wheel speed, steering angle, longitudinal and lateral acceleration send data to ATTESA control unit.
2. If the system detects slippage of the rear wheels (for example, during a sudden start), it activates multi-plate clutch in the transfer case.
3. The clutch is blocked, and part of the power (up to 50%) is transmitted to the front axle.
4. In normal mode, the front axle is almost not loaded, which reduces friction losses and improves efficiency.

B R35 the system received an update - ATTESA E-TS Pro, which works even faster thanks to:

• 🔄 More accurate sensors (including a gyroscope to measure body roll).
• ⚡ Electronic control instead of hydraulics (in R32-R34).
• 📈 Integration with Vehicle Stability Control (VDC).

GT-R generation	ATTESA type	Max. front axle distribution	Coupling type	Reaction time (ms)
R32 (1989–1994)	ATTESA E-TS	up to 50%	Hydraulic	~200
R33 (1995–1998)	ATTESA E-TS Pro	up to 50%	Hydraulic (improved)	~150
R34 (1999–2002)	ATTESA E-TS Pro	up to 50%	Hydraulic + electronic control	~100
R35 (2007–present)	ATTESA E-TS Pro	up to 50%	Electronic (wet clutch)	<50

Why is this important? ATTESA's responsiveness allows GT-R remain stable even under extreme loads. For example, on Nürburgring Nordschleife the system manages to redistribute power in a fraction of a second, preventing drifts or drifts.

3. Why the GT-R is not rear-wheel drive: technical reasons

Some car enthusiasts are wondering: “Can the GT-R be rear-wheel drive?” Theoretically, yes, but in practice it is extremely difficult and impractical. Here's why:

1. Transmission design. B GT-R transfer case and front differential are integrated into the gearbox (GR6 in R35). Removing front-wheel drive means completely redo the transmission, which is comparable to creating a new car.

2. Electronics. Systems ATTESA, VDC (stability control), ABS and even launch control designed for all-wheel drive. It is impossible to disable them without security consequences.

3. Weight and balance. GT-R was originally designed as an all-wheel drive vehicle with a weight distribution close to 53:47 (front/back). Removing front wheel drive would upset the balance, making the car uncontrollable at high speeds.

⚠️ Attention: There are “whales” on the market for conversion R32/R33 in rear-wheel drive versions (for example, for drifting). But such cars are not legalized for road traffic in most countries, including Russia. In addition, they require constant modification of the suspension and braking system.

If you need a rear-wheel drive Japanese sports car, it is better to pay attention to:

• 🏁 Nissan 370Z (atmospheric V6, classic layout).
• 🔥 Toyota Supra (A80/A90) (turbo inline six or BMW engine).
• 💨 Mazda RX-7 (rotary engine, light weight).

4. Comparison with competitors: who manages better?

Nissan GT-R not the only all-wheel drive supercar. Let's compare it with its main competitors in key parameters:

Model	Drive type	Power distribution (front/rear)	Control system	Benefits	Disadvantages
Nissan GT-R R35	Full (ATTESA E-TS Pro)	5–50% / 95–50%	Electronic clutch	✅ Fast redistribution, stability at high speeds	❌ Complexity and high cost of repairs
Porsche 911 Turbo (992)	Full (PTM)	up to 50% / up to 100%	Wet clutch + electronically locked differential	✅ Perfect balance, responsive controls	❌ Expensive maintenance, tendency to oversteer
Audi R8 V10 Performance	Full (Quattro)	40% / 60%	Torsen center differential + electronic locking	✅ Predictable, excellent grip	❌ Heavier, less playful character
BMW M5 (F90)	Full (xDrive)	0–100% / 0–100%	Multi-disc clutch + M-differential	✅ Flexibility of settings, 2WD mode	❌ Complex electronics, expensive repairs

What does this mean for the driver?

• 🏁 GT-R accelerates faster from a standstill thanks to minimal slipping, but requires getting used to the “heavy” steering wheel at low speeds.
• 🔄 Porsche 911 Turbo more balanced in corners, but prone to oversteer.
• 🛡️ Audi R8 more predictable in extreme conditions, but loses in emotions.

If you need a car for track, GT-R is one of the best choices due to its stability and ease of setup. For everyday driving Porsche or Audi may be more comfortable.

5. Common myths about the GT-R drivetrain

Around Nissan GT-R There are many myths circulating, especially regarding its transmission. Let's look at the most popular:

Myth 1: “The GT-R can be switched to rear-wheel drive mode with a button.”

❌ Reality: B R35 there is a shutdown button VDC (stability control systems), but all-wheel drive remains active. The maximum you will get is more slip of the rear axle, but the front will still engage when necessary.

Myth 2: “ATTESA breaks down every 50,000 km.”

❌ Reality: System ATTESA extremely reliable if you look after it oil in transfer case (change every 60,000 km) and do not overload the clutch with aggressive drifting. The main problems arise from:

• 🛢️ Old oil (leads to wear of the clutches).
• 🔥 Overheating (for example, after long races on the track without cooling).
• 🔧 Unprofessional tuning (installation of power kits without modification of the transmission).

Myth 3: “Front-wheel drive in a GT-R is just a hindrance.”

❌ Reality: On the track ATTESA helps reduce lap time due to better exit from corners. For example, in racing Super GT all-wheel drive GT-R often outperformed by rear-wheel drive Lexus LC500 on wet roads.

Myth 4: “The R35 is weaker than previous generations due to electronics.”

❌ Reality: R35 equipped with more advanced ATTESA E-TS Pro, which works faster and more accurately. Yes, electronics limits some “liberties”, but this is compensated for better handling at the limit.

How to check if ATTESA is working properly?

1. Start the car and put it in first gear.

2. Press the gas sharply - if the front axle engages (a slight jerk is felt), the system is working.

3. When driving on a slippery surface (for example, wet asphalt), try to start sharply - if slipping is minimal, ATTESA is in good condition.

4. Pay attention to ATTESA lamp on the dashboard - if it lights up, diagnostics are required.

6. How to care for your GT-R all-wheel drive: tips from the experts

System ATTESA in GT-R reliable, but requires attention. Here key service rules:

1. Oil in the transfer case.

Change every 60,000 km or once every 2 years (whichever comes first). Use only original oil Nissan Matic S ATF or analogues (Mobil ATF 3309).

2. Diagnostics of the ATTESA coupling.

Signs of wear:

• 🔴 Jerks when changing gears or starting.
• 🔴 Rumble from the transfer case side.
• 🔴 ATTESA lamp on the dashboard.

3. Checking the sensors.

Faulty wheel speed or steering angle sensors can cause false alarm ATTESA. Symptoms: unexpected steering or “lifting” of the front axle.

4. Cooling.

After track rides, let the car cool down 15–20 minutes with the engine running at idle. This will prevent the oil in the transfer case from overheating.

Check service history (especially ATTESA oil changes)|Make sure the ATTESA light is off when starting|Take a hard start test drive (you should feel the front axle pick up)|Inspect the transfer case for oil leaks|Check for error codes (e.g. C1105 — malfunction of the rotation angle sensor) -->

5. Tuning and modifications.

If you plan to increase power (500+ hp), required:

• 🔧 Install ATTESA reinforced coupling (for example, from Nismo or OS Giken).
• 🛡️ Update differentials (front and rear) on locking model.
• 📉 Reflash ECU for correct operation with the new torque.

7. GT-R on the track vs. drift: how does all-wheel drive behave?

One of the most frequently asked questions: “Can you drift in a GT-R?” The answer is yes, but not in the same way as in a classic rear-wheel drive car. Here's what you need to know:

On the track:

• ✅ Stability at high speeds. All-wheel drive helps keep the line in high-speed corners (for example, on Suzuka Circuit).
• ✅ Quick exit from corners. ATTESA allows you to open the gas earlier without fear of drift.
• ❌ Less "playfulness". Unlike Porsche 911, GT-R less prone to controlled skidding.

In drift:

• ✅ It is possible, but you need to disable VDC. In the mode with the exchange rate control system turned off, the rear axle slides more actively.
• ✅ Better suited for power drifting. Thanks to the turbo engine and all-wheel drive GT-R easily maintains high sliding angles at high speed.
• ❌ Difficult to control in slow drifts. The front axle may unexpectedly “pick up”, which requires quick steering.

For drifting, many owners GT-R set:

• 🔧 2-way LSD (limited slip differential) at the rear.
• 🛠️ Corner whale to increase wheel turnability.
• 🎛️ Switchable front-wheel drive (for experienced pilots, but requires serious modifications).

Tip for newbies: If you want to learn how to drift GT-R, start with disabled VDC and low speeds. Gradually get used to the car's behavior - it does not forgive mistakes due to its heavy weight and power.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan GT-R drivetrain

❓ Is it possible to disable all-wheel drive on the GT-R R35?

No, you cannot completely disable all-wheel drive. Maximum - disable the stability control system (VDC), which will allow the rear axle to slide more. Completely disabling front-wheel drive requires extensive modifications to the transmission.

❓ What oil should I fill into the ATTESA transfer case?

Official recommended oil - Nissan Matic S ATF. Alternatives: Mobil ATF 3309 or Red Line D4 ATF. Change every 60,000 km or once every 2 years.

❓ Why is the GT-R R35 harder to handle at low speeds than the Porsche 911?

This is due to weight distribution (y GT-R it is shifted forward) and ATTESA settings, which at low speeds can engage the front axle unexpectedly. B Porsche 911 four-wheel drive (PTM) runs smoother.

❓ Is it possible to install a mechanical rear differential on the GT-R?

Yes, many owners change the standard differential to mechanical LSD (for example, from Nismo or Cusco). This improves cornering control and allows for more predictable drifting.

❓ Why doesn't the R35 have a differential lock button like the Jeep or Land Cruiser?

GT-R - this is sports car, not an SUV. System ATTESA designed for dynamic power distribution, and not for forced blocking. Off-road GT-R not intended.