It’s been nearly two decades since the R35 generation of the Nissan GT-R was unleashed upon the world—a long reign for any car, but especially for a beast so unapologetically designed for speed and ferocity. Known by nicknames like the “Supercar Killer,” “Godzilla,” and even “Hakosuka,” a nod to the GT-R legacy dating back to the late 1960s, this iconic machine has captivated enthusiasts with its raw power and relentless pursuit of perfection.
Now, with production set to end next year, the R35 will take its final bow. This is the last dance with a legend, a bittersweet farewell to a nameplate that transformed our understanding of what a sports car could be.
A Timeless Presence
Since its debut, the R35 has defied automotive fashion trends. Its design, while largely unchanged over the years, has a timeless quality that remains unmistakably modern. Every inch of its body, from the sharp headlights to the muscular haunches, exudes purpose. The classic red paint, bold and unmissable, adds to its aura, making it impossible to ignore whether it’s roaring down the freeway or idling at a stoplight. And then there are those 20-inch RAYS forged alloy wheels—powerful and precise, they complete the GT-R’s look in a way that feels wholly intentional, crafted to perform as well as they impress.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that embodies a unique mix of luxury and restraint. The hand-stitched semi-aniline leather upholstery is soft, the kind of detail that whispers rather than shouts. The carbon-fiber center console speaks of refinement, while the 11-speaker Bose premium audio system ensures that each note hits with the same precision as a throttle press. Even the dual subwoofers, meticulously calibrated, deliver bass that’s powerful without overwhelming. The GT-R’s cabin, like the car itself, finds a delicate balance between elegance and raw power, a sanctuary that both embraces and excites.
Heart and Soul: A Mechanical Masterpiece
The real marvel of the GT-R lies under its hood. Powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter VR38DETT V6 engine, each hand-assembled by Nissan’s famed Takumi craftsmen, this engine is a work of art—both in form and function. Producing 562 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque, the R35 commands respect. Mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that shifts with astonishing speed, this powertrain feels like an extension of the driver’s will, delivering immediate, razor-sharp responses with a smoothness that rivals even high-end European machines.
Despite its considerable heft, the R35 feels nimble and grounded, thanks to its expertly tuned chassis and direct steering feel. It’s a sensation that few cars can replicate. There’s a visceral pleasure in the way this car handles, an experience that reminds you of why the GT-R earned its reputation as a supercar killer. And when you press the accelerator, the exhaust note hums—restrained at lower speeds but delightfully assertive when unleashed. It’s a soundscape that’s as thrilling as it is refined, making every drive feel like an occasion.
The GT-R’s brakes are equally formidable, designed with track days in mind. The ventilated rotors offer excellent heat dissipation, which proves essential during high-speed runs. These brakes may be “overkill” for daily commutes, but on the track, they’re perfection. Combined with the Bilstein DampTronic suspension system, the R35 is a powerhouse that turns effortlessly into corners and feels like it could grip the asphalt forever. Whether cruising or pushing the limits, the GT-R offers a driving experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to take the wheel.
The Cost of Greatness
However, like any legend, the GT-R has its quirks and limitations. With a ground clearance of only 110 millimeters, even the gentlest of ramps can become an obstacle, and access to certain parking spots is a carefully calculated affair. This is the price of beauty, a sacrifice for the sake of performance that, for most owners, is worth every scraped bumper.
Inside, the layout shows its age, with some hard plastics sprinkled across the otherwise premium interior. The absence of modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay might deter some, though the Bluetooth connection remains reliable. And, while the cabin is luxurious, ingress and egress require a degree of agility. The second row, seemingly an afterthought, is more symbolic than practical—a nod to compliance rather than comfort.
For those who take this machine on extended road trips, the electronically assisted but heavy steering can be a bit exhausting. Even in comfort mode, the GT-R’s suspension is firm, designed for the track rather than the highway. Body aches and road noise can be a reality after long drives, yet there’s an almost poetic trade-off in this experience—a reminder that the GT-R is, at its core, a track-bred machine. It’s not meant to coddle but to thrill.
With a price tag north of 12 million pesos, the R35 enters the realm of high-performance luxury, where it competes with Europe’s finest. Yet, despite its flaws, it’s not a choice of practicality or prestige. Owning a GT-R means embracing the legacy, the lineage, and the raw, unapologetic joy of a car that’s unafraid to stand alone.
Your Legend is Forever
As the final model years of the R35 roll off the production line, enthusiasts worldwide prepare to bid farewell. The end of the GT-R R35 marks the end of an era, a significant chapter in automotive history. It’s a car that lived up to every moniker bestowed upon it.
This last dance is not just a celebration of the R35 but of the GT-R as a whole—a car that embodied the spirit of Japanese engineering, a relentless pursuit of performance that has inspired generations of drivers and set new standards for what’s possible. As the industry shifts toward electrification and autonomy, the GT-R serves as a poignant reminder of the analog era, a time when cars were built to be driven, to be experienced, to make you feel.
The final GT-R R35 will leave a legacy that transcends its performance specs or price tag. It’s a testament to Nissan’s vision, a car that started as a daring experiment and ended as a legend. For all who had the privilege of driving or merely witnessing this masterpiece on the road, it will be remembered fondly—not just as a machine, but as an experience, a symbol of ambition, and a reminder of the thrill of the open road.
In the annals of automotive history, the GT-R R35 will hold a place of honor. And while its last dance may signal the end of an era, the spirit of Godzilla will live on, roaring in the hearts of enthusiasts and echoing in the dreams of future generations. Farewell, GT-R. Your legend is forever.
