Nissan and Italdesign build the one-off GT-R50

To celebrate the GT-R’s fiftieth birthday, Nissan Design Europe and Nissan Design America worked together to create a unique car. The result is the GT-R50.

Surprisingly, engineering and fabrication for this prototype – which is based on a 2018 GT-R Nismo – was entrusted to Volkswagen-owned Italdesign. Such a partnership might seem odd, but Nissan reckons it makes sense because this year also marks the Italian company’s half-century.

Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign (2018) Rear Side

Bespoke elements include a restyled roof that lowers the silhouette by 54 mm (2.1”) to 1,316 mm (51.8”). Furthermore, the bonnet is flatter, thin LED headlights are fitted and a smaller back screen appears to flow downwards towards four characteristically circular light clusters.

As well as helping to break up the visual mass, an abundant use of Energetic Sigma Gold provides contrast for the Liquid Kinetic Gray paintwork. Custom 21” wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres and an adjustable rear wing complete the external transformation.

Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign (2018) InteriorNissan GT-R50 by Italdesign (2018) Front Side

Italian leather and Alcantara upholstery features inside, along with plenty of carbon fibre trim pieces and some fairly subtle gold accents.

The modifications aren’t just cosmetic, though. Thanks to strengthened internal components, high-flow fuel injectors, GT3-specification turbochargers and bigger intercoolers, the 3.8 litre V6 engine produces an estimated 710 bhp (530 kW / 720 PS) with 780 Nm (575 lb/ft) of torque.

Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign (2018) Top

That increased output is delivered via a reinforced six-speed dual-clutch sequential transmission. Upgraded suspension and braking set-ups complement the extra performance potential.

A European début for the GT-R50 by Italdesign will happen sometime during the next few weeks. At this stage, Nissan doesn’t intend to offer a production version.

Related posts:
2018 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 sales begin
2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo revealed

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