Get ready to rev up your engine! We pit the Porsche 911 GT3 RS against the Nissan GTR R35 in a showdown of power, agility, and style. Which supercar will come out on top?
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, both the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GT-R R35 are beasts in their own right. But how do they stack up against each other?
Horsepower and Torque Output
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS packs a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine that produces a staggering 520 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 346 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that churns out 565 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 467 lb-ft of torque at 3,300-5,800 rpm. While both cars are undoubtedly quick, the GT-R’s forced induction gives it a significant edge in terms of raw power.
Acceleration and Top Speed
So, how do these numbers translate to real-world performance? The Porsche 911 GT3 RS can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 193 mph. The Nissan GT-R R35, meanwhile, can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 196 mph. While the GT-R has the edge in outright acceleration, the 911 GT3 RS’s gearing and aerodynamics allow it to reach higher speeds on the track.
Transmission and Gearbox Options
When it comes to shifting gears, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS features a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission, which provides lightning-quick shifts and paddle-shift control. The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, offers a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle-shift control. While both transmissions are highly capable, the Porsche’s additional gear ratio and more sophisticated software give it a slight edge in terms of responsiveness and flexibility.
Handling and Agility
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GTR R35 are both high-performance machines that promise to thrill on the track and on twisty roads. But what makes them tick when it comes to handling and agility?
Suspension and Chassis Tweaks
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS features a suspension system that’s been tweaked to provide exceptional handling and stability. The front axle features a MacPherson strut suspension with an anti-roll bar, while the rear axle boasts a multi-link suspension with a rear-axle steering system. This setup allows for incredible precision and agility, making the GT3 RS feel glued to the road. In contrast, the Nissan GTR R35 features an advanced suspension system with adaptive damping, which provides a comfortable ride and responsive handling. However, the GT-R’s suspension is more geared towards comfort than outright track performance, giving the GT3 RS a slight edge in this department.
Steering and Braking Systems
When it comes to steering, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS features an electromechanical power steering system that’s been finely tuned to provide exceptional feedback and precision. The system is also speed-sensitive, meaning it becomes more direct and responsive as speeds increase. The Nissan GTR R35, on the other hand, features a speed-sensitive power steering system that’s more geared towards comfort than precision. While it’s still a capable system, it can’t match the GT3 RS’s level of feedback and responsiveness. In terms of braking, both cars feature massive discs and high-performance calipers. However, the GT3 RS’s system is more advanced, with larger discs and six-piston calipers up front, compared to the GT-R’s four-piston calipers.
Weight Distribution and Aerodynamics
Weight distribution and aerodynamics play a crucial role in any high-performance car’s handling and agility. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS features a near-perfect weight distribution, with 37.5% of its weight over the front axle and 62.5% over the rear. This, combined with its advanced aerodynamics package, including a massive rear wing and front splitter, allows the GT3 RS to generate an astonishing 340 pounds of downforce at 186 mph. The Nissan GTR R35, on the other hand, features a slightly more biased weight distribution, with 53.5% of its weight over the front axle and 46.5% over the rear. While it’s still a capable handler, its aerodynamics package is more subtle, generating less downforce than the GT3 RS.
Interior and Exterior Design
The interior and exterior design of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GTR R35 are a testament to the manufacturers’ commitment to creating high-performance vehicles that not only deliver exceptional speed and agility but also exude style and sophistication.
Cockpit and Infotainment Features
Step inside the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and you’ll be greeted by a cockpit that’s been meticulously designed to put the driver in command. The instrument cluster features a central rev counter, flanked by two high-resolution displays that provide crucial data on essential systems like speed, gear selection, and navigation. In contrast, the Nissan GTR R35 boasts a more modern, tech-heavy interior, with an 8-inch touchscreen display that integrates navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. The question is, which approach do you prefer? Do you like the traditional, driver-focused cockpit of the Porsche, or the more contemporary, tech-laden space of the Nissan?
Bucket Seats and Interior Trim
Both vehicles feature bucket seats that provide exceptional support and comfort during high-G cornering and spirited driving. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS takes it a step further with optional 18-way adaptive sports seats that can be tailored to individual preferences. The interior trim is also a significant differentiator, with the Porsche featuring a more premium, Alcantara-like material that adds a touch of sophistication to the cabin. The Nissan GTR R35, on the other hand, sticks to a more functional, hard-wearing trim that prioritizes durability over aesthetics.
Exterior Color Options and Design Elements
Exterior design is another area where the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GTR R35 diverge. The Porsche boasts a more conservative, evolutionary design approach that builds upon the iconic 911 silhouette. The car is available in a range of colors, including some eye-catching options like Lava Orange and Carrara White. In contrast, the Nissan GTR R35 features a more aggressive, angular design that’s unmistakably Japanese. The car is available in a range of colors, including some bold options like Ultimate Opal Black and Pearl White Tricoat. But which design language do you prefer? Do you like the understated, classic approach of the Porsche, or the more dramatic, attention-grabbing stance of the Nissan?
Technology and Safety Features
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GT-R R35 are both high-performance vehicles that boast cutting-edge technology and advanced safety features. But how do they compare when it comes to keeping you safe on the road and connected on the go?
Advanced Safety Features and Driver Aids
Both cars come equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. However, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS takes it a step further with its advanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system, which includes features like brake assist and pre-loading of the brake system for added safety.
The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, offers a range of advanced safety features, including forward emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot warning. But while both cars have their strengths, the GT3 RS’s more comprehensive PSM system gives it the edge in terms of overall safety.
Infotainment and Navigation Systems
When it comes to staying connected and entertained on the go, both cars offer impressive infotainment and navigation systems. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS features the intuitive Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which includes a high-resolution touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, offers its own advanced infotainment system, complete with an 8-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But while both systems are impressive, the GT3 RS’s PCM system is more user-friendly and customizable, making it the better choice for tech-savvy drivers.
Connectivity and Smartphone Integration
In today’s connected world, staying linked to your smartphone is more important than ever. Fortunately, both the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GT-R R35 offer seamless smartphone integration, allowing you to access your music, maps, and apps on the go.
The GT3 RS takes it a step further, however, with its advanced Porsche Connect system, which includes features like real-time traffic updates, online navigation, and smartphone app integration. The result is a more connected and convenient driving experience that’s hard to beat.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and the Nissan GT-R R35, the age-old adage “you get what you pay for” rings truer than ever. Both cars are high-performance beasts, but their pricing and value proposition are as different as apples and oranges.
Base Price and Optional Upgrades
The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a staggering $147,000, while the Nissan GT-R R35 starts at a relatively more affordable $99,000. However, the GT-R R35’s price can quickly escalate with optional upgrades like the Track Edition package, which adds $25,000 to the sticker price. Meanwhile, the 911 GT3 RS’s price can also increase with custom paint jobs, interior trim options, and other bespoke features. The question is, what do you get for your money, and is it worth the investment?
Resale Value and Depreciation
When it comes to resale value, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS holds its own remarkably well. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 911 GT3 RS retains around 60% of its value after three years, making it a solid investment for car enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Nissan GT-R R35 experiences a more significant depreciation, retaining around 45% of its value after three years. However, the GT-R R35’s lower starting price means that the depreciation hit is less severe in absolute terms.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
As high-performance cars, both the 911 GT3 RS and the GT-R R35 require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. However, the costs of maintenance and repair differ significantly between the two cars. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS requires more frequent oil changes and filter replacements, which can add up to $2,000 to $3,000 per year. Additionally, replacement parts for the 911 GT3 RS can be pricey, with a new set of brake pads costing around $1,500. The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, has lower maintenance costs, with oil changes and filter replacements costing around $1,000 to $1,500 per year. However, the GT-R R35’s complex all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbo V6 engine can make repairs more challenging and expensive if something goes wrong.
Racing and Track Capabilities
When it comes to unleashing their full potential, both the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Nissan GT-R R35 are bred for the track. But which one has the credentials to back up its claims?
Nürburgring Lap Times and Records
The Nürburgring Nordschleife is the ultimate proving ground for any serious performance car. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS has an impressive lap time of 6:56.4 minutes, making it one of the fastest production cars to lap the ‘Ring. The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, has a lap time of 7:26.7 minutes, still an impressive feat but slightly off the pace. However, it’s worth noting that the GT-R R35 was tested in 2009, and the current iteration might be capable of faster times.
Track-Focused Features and Options
Both cars are designed to excel on the track, but they approach it from different angles. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS features a lightweight carbon fiber bonnet, roof, and rear wing, which sheds precious pounds and increases downforce. The GT3 RS also has a manual gearbox, which allows for more driver engagement and control. The Nissan GT-R R35, on the other hand, boasts advanced all-wheel-drive technology, which provides incredible traction and stability. The R35 also features a range of drive modes, including a Track mode that sharpens the car’s reflexes and optimizes its performance.
Competitive Racing and Motorsport Heritage
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS has a rich racing heritage, with numerous wins in endurance racing and GT championships. The GT3 RS is, in fact, a road-going version of the 911 GT3 R, a full-fledged racing car. The Nissan GT-R R35, while not as decorated in terms of racing wins, has a strong following in the world of time attack and drifting. The R35 has also been campaigned in various racing series, including the Super GT and GT Asia championships. While both cars have their own racing pedigrees, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS has a more established reputation in the world of competitive motorsports.