When it comes to Nissan GT-R R50, even experienced car enthusiasts sometimes confuse it with the more famous R35. And this is not surprising: the model R50 is not a production car, but a unique project created in collaboration with Italdesign to the 50th anniversary of the legendary line GT-R. In fact, it's reincarnation R35 in the back of Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign, where every element is worked out to the smallest detail - from aerodynamics to the interior.
Under the hood R50 the same one is hiding 3.8-liter twin-turbo VR38DETT, but with modifications that increase power to 710 hp - 160 hp more than standard R35. At the same time, the car retained all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS and a 6-speed robotic gearbox, which makes it not only fast, but also predictable on the track. In this article we will look at what R50 different from others GT-Rhow it behaves on the road and whether it is worth investing in this supercar today.
Creation history: why the R50 is not just a restyling of the R35
Project Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign was announced in 2018 as a tribute to the 50th anniversary GT-R. However, this is not just an anniversary version - it is full redesign, which the engineers were working on Nissan and designers Italdesign Giugiaro. Body R50 wider and lower than R35, and the front bumper with aggressive air intakes and rear diffuser improve aerodynamics by 20%.
Interesting fact: it was originally planned to release only 50 copies, but due to high demand, production was increased to 52 cars. Each of them was assembled by hand in Italy, and the price started from 1.1 million euros - almost three times more expensive than the basic one R35. Today on the secondary market R50 estimated at 1.5–2 million euros, making it one of the most expensive Japanese supercars.
- 📅 Debut year: 2018 (concept), 2020 (production version)
- 🏭 Place of production: Turin, Italy (Italdesign)
- 🔧 Base: chassis and powertrain Nissan GT-R R35
- 💰 Cost of a new one: from 1.1 million euros
- I love the aggressive style
- Too futuristic
- I prefer the classic R35
- Doesn't matter
Technical specifications: what's hidden under the hood of the VR38DETT
Heart R50 - this is a modified engine VR38DETT, which is standard R35 produces 570 hp In version R50 engineers Nismo increased power to 710 hp at 7100 rpm and torque up to 780 Nm. This was achieved due to:
- 🔥 Installing new Garrett GT3 turbines with titanium blades
- 🛢️ Modified injection system and enlarged fuel injectors
- 🔧 Lightweight crankshaft and pistons made of high-strength aluminum
- 💨 Redesigned exhaust system with titanium muffler Akrapović
The transmission remains the same - 6-speed GR6 dual clutch, but with updated software for faster switching. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 2.5 seconds, and the maximum speed is electronically limited at 320 km/h.
| Parameter | Nissan GT-R R50 | Nissan GT-R R35 (base version) |
|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 710 | 570 |
| Torque, Nm | 780 | 637 |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s | 2,5 | 2,7 |
| Max. speed, km/h | 320 (limited) | 315 (limited) |
| Weight, kg | 1 740 | 1 740 |
⚠️ Attention: Despite similar technical characteristics, R50 requires more frequent maintenance due to increased engine loads. Recommended oil change interval: every 5,000 km, and not 10,000 km, like the standard one R35.
Design and aerodynamics: why the R50 looks like a racing prototype
Appearance GT-R R50 - this is the work of the studio Italdesign, known for her collaboration with Lamborghini And Ferrari. The body became 54mm wider and on 130 mm longerthan R35, and the ground clearance decreased by 20 mm. Main differences:
- 🚀 Front splitter with active elements that reduce lift by 30%
- 🌀 Side Skirts with air intakes for brake cooling
- 🔥 Rear wing with adjustable angle of attack (3 positions)
- 💎 LED optics with adaptive headlights and dynamic turn signals
The interior has also undergone changes: it uses carbon inserts, leather Nappa with contrast stitching and a digital instrument panel with a unique design. The steering wheel is taken from Nismo, and the seats have improved lateral support for track loads.
Secret interior details
Hidden inside the R50's cabin are two unique features: a serial number plaque (eg "01/50") on the center console and a GT-R-branded floor light that activates when the doors are opened.
Comparison with R35: is it worth paying extra for the R50?
The main question that worries potential buyers: what justifies the price difference between R50 and R35? If R35 in top configuration Nismo costs about 200,000 euros, then R50 will cost 5–6 times more. Here are the key arguments for and against:
- ✅ Exclusivity: only 52 copies against thousands R35
- ✅ Improved aerodynamics: downforce at 200 km/h is 22% higher
- ✅ Manual assembly: Each car undergoes 3-week quality control
- ❌ High maintenance costs: spare parts for R50 30–40% more expensive
- ❌ Limited practicality: stiff suspension and low ground clearance make the car uncomfortable for the city
If you are looking investment asset, then R50 - an excellent choice: its price grows by 10–15% per year. But if you need everyday supercar, then it is more reasonable to consider R35 Nismo with similar characteristics, but three times cheaper.
Before purchasing an R50, be sure to check the service history. Many owners skimp on maintenance, which leads to problems with turbines and gearboxes.
Tuning and modifications: how to get the most out of the R50
Despite the factory power of 710 hp, many owners R50 strive to increase this figure. Popular tuning areas:
- ECU chip tuning: firmware from Cobb Tuning or Ecutek allows you to increase power up to 800–850 hp without mechanical modifications.
- Replacing turbines: installation of hybrid turbines Greddy or HKS adds another 100–150 hp, but requires strengthening the fuel system.
- Lightening the body: replacing the windows with polycarbonate ones and removing the rear seats reduces the weight by 80–100 kg.
- Brake system: ceramic discs Brembo CCM-R (390 mm) improve braking by 15%.
However, there are nuances: for example, The R50 is not covered by Nissan's warranty for modified cars. In addition, an increase in power over 800 hp. requires strengthening the gearbox, which will cost 15–20 thousand euros.
⚠️ Attention: When tuning R50 be sure to update the firmware ATTESA E-TS — standard all-wheel drive settings are not designed for power above 750 hp. and can lead to slipping at the start.
☑️ Checklist before tuning R50
Operation and maintenance: what the owner needs to know
Service Nissan GT-R R50 — it's not just an oil change. Here are the key points to pay attention to:
- 🛢️ Oil: only synthetics Motul 300V 5W-40 or Nismo Competition Oil. Replacement interval is 5,000 km.
- 🔥 Turbines: wear check every 20,000 km. The cost of replacing one turbine is from 8,000 euros.
- ⚙️ Gearbox: changing the oil in
GR6every 60,000 km (work cost: 1,500 euros). - 🔋 Battery: original Nissan AGM lasts 3–4 years. Low-quality analogues lead to system failures
ATTESA.
Another important point - storage. Due to the low ground clearance and wide wheels R50 It is not recommended to park on the street in winter. Optimal conditions: heated garage with humidity control (not higher than 50%).
Regular diagnostics of the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS - the key to long service life of the R50. A missed fault in the transfer case can lead to repairs costing 30,000+ euros.
Where to buy and how much does the Nissan GT-R R50 cost in 2026?
Due to limited edition R50 sold primarily at closed auctions or through premium car dealers. Main sites:
- 🌍 RM Sotheby’s: average lot price: 1.8 million euros
- 🏁 Bonhams: record sale in 2023 - 2.1 million euros (copy No. 01/50)
- 💼 Private sales: through brokers, for example, Girardo & Co. or Tom Hartley Jr.
When purchasing, pay attention to:
- 📄 Documents: original service book with marks Nissan And Italdesign.
- 🔧 Repair history: lack of records of accidents and warranty interventions.
- 🎨 Exclusivity: some specimens have a unique coloration (for example, "Liquid Kinetic Grey" or "Energetic Sigma Gold").
In Russia R50 was not officially sold, but several copies were imported to order. The cost on the secondary market starts from 180 million rubles (at the rate of 2026).
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan GT-R R50
How many examples of the Nissan GT-R R50 were produced?
Initially, 50 cars were planned, but in fact, 52 copies were assembled. Two additional ones were created for testing and museum display. Nissan.
Is it possible to drive the R50 in winter?
Technically yes, but not recommended. Tires Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 are not designed for low temperatures, and the system ATTESA may malfunction in snow. The best option is a “winter set” of wheels with studded tires and turning off the mode R-Mode.
How does the suspension of the R50 differ from the R35?
R50 received adaptive shock absorbers Bilstein DampTronic with three hardness modes, while R35 in the basic version it is equipped with conventional racks. Also in R50 Stiffer anti-roll bars were used.
What fuel should I put in the R50?
Minimum octane - 98, but for maximum benefit it is recommended 102 (For example, Shell V-Power Racing or BP Ultimate 102). The use of 95 gasoline leads to detonation and reduces engine life.
Is it possible to put a body from an R35 on an R50?
Theoretically yes, but this will require reworking the mounts and reprogramming the body control unit (BCM). The cost of such tuning is comparable to buying a new one R35, therefore it is not economically feasible.