Nissan has been struggling as of late with their former head hiding out from prosecution and even their well loved high end models sitting in showrooms, but CarNewsNetwork has imagined a mid-engined GT-R that just might rejuvanate the long lasting brand. The GT-R or Skyline has been the halo performance model for Nissan for decades, though only the latest model has been available in the United States. The design is one of several imaginings of Nissan's "Godzilla" in a mid engine layout.
Mid Engine Madness
Ever since John Cooper and Colin Chapman started putting the engines in the middle of their Formula One cars the mid engine layout has been synonymous with performance and racing. After the release of cars like the Lamborghini Muira and Ferrari Dino 246 mid engine magic was brought to the streets. Corvette recently made the move from front to mid engine with its latest C8.
Italdesign GT-R 50
The design takes its cues from the latest hot edition of the already hot GT-R, the Italdesign GT-R50. Currently customers who want a faster GT-R as their option of choice have the Nismo GT-R that offers a staggering 600hp. All of the GT-Rs are all wheel drive except the GT3 model that is rear wheel drive to conform with series rules.
Long in the Tooth
One of the troubles plaguing Nissan aside from aggressive expansion by their CEO on the run is a model line up that's starting to age. The current R35 GT-R was introduced in 2007, meaning the sports car is entering its teens. Their other sports car, the 370Z, faces the same issue. Though Nissan product planning head Ivan Espinosa told Autocar in an interview that Nissan is committed to both badges going into the future. No word on the engine layouts.
Source: Top Speed