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Revealed in 2019, the GT-R50 emerged as a commemoration of the concurrent 50th anniversaries of the Nissan GT-R and Italdesign. To mark this milestone, the renowned Italian design house crafted a remarkable concept inspired by the esteemed Japanese supercar, the R35-generation GT-R. While the initial plan envisioned the production of 50 of these extraordinary sports cars, only 18 examples came to fruition due in part to the global pandemic and the substantial base price of €990,000 ($1,077,000) as disclosed by the manufacturer.
This exclusive, custom-built machine featured a lowered roofline by 54 millimetres, an enlarged power bulge on the bonnet, and sleeker, more aggressively styled LED headlamps. The rear of the car underwent a captivating redesign, showcasing the production model's signature round taillamps seemingly suspended in mid-air, alongside a dramatic plunging rear window.
Beyond its aesthetic prowess, beneath the bespoke bodywork lay a host of mechanical enhancements, particularly evident in the hand-assembled 3.8-litre V-6 engine. Upgrades such as new fuel injectors, enhanced pistons, and a redesigned exhaust system, coupled with larger GT3-specification turbochargers and intercoolers, resulted in an impressive power output of 710 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque. The power was efficiently channeled to the rear wheels through an upgraded six-speed dual-clutch paddle-shift gearbox, differentials, and driveshafts. The remarkable specification extended to Bilstein DampTronic adjustable dampers, bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels, and front and rear braking systems featuring six- and four-piston Brembo brake callipers, respectively.
There has only been a production of 18 cars. Distinguished by its optional Liquid Silver Metallic with Nismo Red accents, the GT-R50 depicted here uniquely incorporates a hydraulic rear wing, enhancing both its aesthetics and performance.
Exceeding its base model in exclusivity and allure, the GT-R50 stands as an extraordinary fusion of advanced Japanese technology and forward-thinking Italian design. In the words of Top Gear's Tom Ford, it represents "a mix of jaw-dropping looks and synapse-shattering performance... a fitting celebration of a half-century of brilliance from both companies.
