A strange name, for sure, but the Egoist is lighter and faster even more than a stock GT-R
Road & Track was the first to report of a possible Nissan
GT-R "Spec M" several months ago, as we heard the potential of its
existence straight from the mouth of Kazutoshi Mizuno, the chief
engineer and vehicle specialist of the GT-R. He mentioned the
possibility of the car when we tested the in Japan last year. Well,
that day has finally come as we have confirmed reports about the coming
of a new GT-R trim level, one that caters to the more mature driver.
Unfortunately, like the Spec V, the new version doesn't seem as if it
will be coming to the U.S.
Before delving into specifics
about the car, let us offer you a little background on the Spec M. We
first received our taste of the GT-R Spec M with the R34 Skyline GT-R
back in 2006. This car represented the luxury version of the company's
high-performance coupe, with the "M" standing for "Mature." The car
exhibited a smoother ride than the stock and the Spec V, while
sacrificing very little by way of performance. Simply put, it was a more
sophisticated car than its stable mates. The man behind the R34 Spec M:
Mizuno-san.
Fast forward to today. The Spec M is indeed on
its way to production, as is set to take orders in October; the car,
however, will go by a new name, the GT-R Egoist. The reason for this
unusual moniker? Nissan wanted to ensure that the car will be marketed
to those who want a little more in life, those who feel that they
deserve more than the average Joe (and who doesn't, we say). The new car
will come with the pumped-up engine that will power next year's GT-R.
The twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6 will unleash 520 bhp at 6400 rpm to
all four wheels, while weighing in about 60 lb. less than the current
car, thanks to lighter weight parts throughout the body. Peak torque,
estimated at 452 lb.-ft., will be reached from 3200 to 5200 rpm. This
means the car will be quicker than the current GT-R. The Egoist will
also have a more compliant suspension (via revised spring rates and
slightly different geometry at the rear), while still being able to keep
up with cars on the track. The interior will also have numerous key
"Egoist" touches.
The car will be delivered to customers in
December. The price of the GT-R Egoist is set at about 14,000,000 yen or
$150,000, roughly $50,000 more than a stock GT-R and about $10,000 less
than a Spec V. The company plans to only sell about 10 cars per month.
Nissan U.S.A. has offered no comment about the Egoist and maintains that
the only GT-R the company will be selling in the U.S in 2011 is the
stock one, so don't expect the Egoist or Spec V to come this way anytime
soon.
Via: roadandtrack.com
