GT-R Explanation

"CAcoalminer" (CAcoalminer) 05/23/2014 at 12:17 • Filed to: None

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Well, I think I've held all of you in suspense for long !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . No, the GT-R is not mine. It is actually my son's way of rewarding himself for earning a recent promotion. However, this is not the first time this vehicle has been in the family, as I bought this exact vehicle new in December 2008 and kept it until November of last year. Unlike some, I actually really enjoyed the GT-R but ultimately decided it was time for a change and sold the car to a long-time friend in Austin. So, you can understand my surprise when my son contacted me last week to tell me that he had decided to purchase my old car and asked if I could drive it out to him in Dallas. Always relishing a good road trip and an opportunity to see my grandkids, I gladly agreed. Anyway, over the last few days, I have had the opportunity to reacquaint myself with my old friend and a few things have stood out.

So, all of you probably already know that the GT-R is a fantastically quick car that is exceptionally capable, especially when being pushed hard. Keeping this in mind, I'll describe something that is rarely covered- how the GT-R handles mundane tasks like traffic and city driving. For starters, stoplights are always an event and not just because people stare at you. You'll swear the car is alive as its drivetrain literally throbs and chatters away, impatiently awaiting its next dose of throttle like a nicotine addict craving his or her next fix. Then comes the issue of driving away from a complete stop smoothly. You see the 2009 GT-R is fitted with Nissan's first ever attempt at making a double clutch transmission and while its effective at shifting gears quickly, its take off abilities are lacking. I've found that there are really only two ways to leave a stop light in an early GT-R, slow or jerky. The slow but smooth method involves applying a very small amount of throttle initially and adding more in a smooth, slow, and consistent manner. Do really anything else and you will experience a jerky take off that will make those around you question your abilities. In addition, there's the minor issue of the car's lack of hill start assist. The car will literally begin to roll back on even the slightest of inclines. However, this can be easily managed by applying a very small amount of throttle while holding the brake and then releasing it when the light changes. However, your issues aren't over once you're under way, as the bumpy ride soon comes into play. Even in its "Comfort" suspension setting, the GT-R still rides quite roughly and will make you wince when passing over manhole covers. In addition, the brakes, while very strong and more than capable for their intended task, have very little bite until the last quarter of the brake pedal's range of travel. Finally, the GT-R, like most sports cars, is quite low and makes entering and departing certain parking lots an adventure in departure angles. Keep in mind, none of these issues are catastrophic by any means, just things that must be kept in mind and dealt with accordingly.

However, the GT-R is not all bad around town. For instance, when left in its automatic mode, the GT-R should net you around 15-18mpg, depending on stop lights and traffic thickness. In addition, while its lack of feedback and proper weighting might not be very popular when pushing the car at high speeds, the GT-R's light, accurate, and precise steering makes parking, slow speed maneuvers, and placing the car quite simple. Also, while it might shift a bit roughly and chatter in the first and second gears, the transmission actually quiets down significantly and shifts with velvety smoothness that rivals an automatic in the subsequent gears.

I hope that this has been informative for at least a few of you. Feel free to ask me anything you want. Also, sorry that the car was dirty in these pictures, but I didn't see the point in washing it when it still had a 4+ hour drive to Dallas ahead of it.

The emblem on the floor mats:

A terrific amount of storage capacity:

In case anyone was wondering what the view out looks like:

Under the hood:

macanamera > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:21

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Hey man, I loved mine. I'm really digging that light interior there though.

heliochrome85 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:22

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When viewed in america, these things always look odd. But when I was in Tokyo, these and the Jukes... they just look perfect. Its like holding a book upside down, trying to read it, then turning it right side up. Still, incredibly impressive machines. Id love to see what else is in your stable.

CAcoalminer > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 12:28

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Thanks. The contrast between the white interior and grey exterior was unique.

CAcoalminer > heliochrome85 05/23/2014 at 12:37

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It definitely is quite a unique shape, especially when contrasted to the cars we're used to.

Concerning my stable, its pretty light right now.

McLaren 12c (my DD and what I bought after the GT-R):

2 Ford GTs:

Sn210 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:42

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keeping it in the family, I love it

heliochrome85 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:43

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very cool. very very cool. sports cars have never been my thing to be honest. Ive always been more a fan of sleepers. The S65s, the Bentley Arnage Ts. I don't need extreme cornering ability, just the velvet gloved iron fist of power. That being said, I love the technicality of of the new generation of McLarens. I wish Lamborghini would stop trying to be the upscale Audi, and go back to putting ridiculous motors in cars designed by children.

CAcoalminer > heliochrome85 05/23/2014 at 12:48

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Thank you.

Concerning sleepers, I definitely agree with you. There is something really appealing about a big, comfortable vehicle that has copious amounts of torque on tap at any time.

I actually own a Range Rover and Model S (my wife's car) as well but didn't post them because I thought most readers wouldn't be interested in them.

Haha. Yeah Lamborghini does seem to lost of a bit of its "edge".

Mattbob > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:49

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CAcoalminer > Mattbob 05/23/2014 at 12:50

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You guys are more than worthy.

heliochrome85 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:52

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I suspect once my lease is up on this BMW, Ill likely switch to either a Porsche Cayman GTS, or pick up a used S63 AMG.

Mattbob > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:53

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and this is why oppo is the greatest place on the internet.

CAcoalminer > heliochrome85 05/23/2014 at 12:54

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Very cool. I'm sure both would be great cars, just for different reasons. Also, the new Caymans are gorgeous little cars.

What model BMW do you currently own?

macanamera > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 12:59

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Extremely awesome.

CAcoalminer > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 12:59

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Thank you.

Mazarin > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:01

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I shouldn't have looked at this thread in the locker room...

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:01

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"It's exactly how I remember it!"

CAcoalminer > Sn210 05/23/2014 at 13:03

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Yeah I couldn't believe, of all the cars out there, that he would choose to purchase my old one. We'll see how long she stays in the family this time around.

macanamera > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:07

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Assuming that's your house, also very cool. I like the design.

CAcoalminer > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 13:10

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Thank you and yes it's one of my homes. The wife is the one who worked with the designer and picked out the materials for it. I just decide what goes in the garage.

macanamera > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:12

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One of your homes? Don't wanna risk getting to nosy here, but what do you do? And where? I'm guessing Cali? Btw, if you own a coal mine, sorry for the stupid question.

CAcoalminer > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 13:22

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It's alright. I probably shouldn't be bragging in the first place.

Presently, I don't really have one official title. I either completely own or have part interest in a good number of businesses that are based mostly in and around the south. However, I did start out by leasing and eventually buying gas stations way back before most of you were born.

Concerning my screen name, it's actually a nickname dating back to high school. It has nothing to do with my profession.

macanamera > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:23

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Very cool. I'm 23. You inspire me.

BKRM3 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:31

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Previously: daydreaming about my E90 M3 sitting in the parking lot while I slog through soul-crushing billable hours.

Currently: daydreaming about that black GT and wondering whether I'll ever be smart enough to buy TWO of a car that actually appreciates in value. Probably not.

Annnnnnnnd, now back to our regularly scheduled billable hour hell.

You've got fine automotive taste. Thanks for the momentary distraction.

heliochrome85 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:49

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2014 328i MSport. It suits my needs now and my budget. But Im exceedingly close to a very healthy salary bump ;)

PushToStart > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 13:49

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I absolutely love the way the GT-R looks, but one thing that seems to pop up a lot in various reviews is that it lacks "personality" in some aspects. To me, I feel like that would rule the car out for me, should I ever be in the market for a car like that. (Which I dearly hope I will be, lol)

Can you weigh in on that, given that you have a lot of experience with similar cars?

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 14:06

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Mostly. Weirdly, I actually liked the exhaust a lot more this second time around. Something about the whoosh of turbos gets to me.

CAcoalminer > Mazarin 05/23/2014 at 14:07

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Haha

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 14:08

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I bet the first thing you did was launch it like 3 times. The GT-R makes such an interesting sound.

CAcoalminer > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 14:10

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Well I'm glad.

Hopefully you'll be the one sharing photos of your amazing garage in the not too distant future.

macanamera > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 14:12

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I have to be honest, it's not the best sounding car. Definitely not with stock pipes. Source: me.

CAcoalminer > BKRM3 05/23/2014 at 14:15

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You're welcome my friend. I love being able to share what I've been blessed to have with others.

Also, I'm sure the drive home in your E90 will make it all worth it.

Have a great weekend and try to not to work too hard!

CAcoalminer > heliochrome85 05/23/2014 at 14:17

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Great to hear. Post up pictures if/when you make the switch.

Brian Silvestro > macanamera 05/23/2014 at 14:18

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I didn't say best sounding! I personally am not really into the car, but there's some parts of it I can't help but respect.

brakesnow > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 14:32

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You're very talented with the camera, appreciate the high quality shots as well as the article. Is one GT for investment purposes while the other is the driver?

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 14:33

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Haha nope only once. Definitely something everyone should experience at least once. This car only has 480hp, so I can't image what the new ones with 500+ hp are like.

It definitely is a unique and distinctive sound. Obviously not for all but hey that's cars for you. Haha

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 14:36

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They're so affordable too! You can smoke 911s for half the price!

BKRM3 > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 15:35

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Thanks, I'll try. Among other things, this weekend includes the very zen-like chore of Swapping from the Street Pads to the Track Pads (yes, I like it so much I've named it) in anticipation of two much needed days on track June 2 and 3.

Enjoy the holiday!

CAcoalminer > brakesnow 05/23/2014 at 16:14

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Thank you. The weather was actually cooperating that day and having a good camera really helps. I'm still no where near National Geographic or Speedhunters quality though. Haha.

Presently, to an extent. When I purchased both of them, I didn't intend for that to happen but the market kind of took off and I decided to baby the black one and go all out on the blue one. So, currently I only put around 1,000 miles a year on the black one and as many as possible on the blue one.

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 16:16

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Yes. Definitely a budget super car.

CAcoalminer > BKRM3 05/23/2014 at 16:18

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Thank you. Enjoy the track.

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 16:18

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That being said, I'd rather have a number of other cars at that price, new or used.

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 16:24

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After owning it, I would as well. However, the way I look at, experiencing new and different things is good for you.

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 16:24

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EXACTLY

How would you know what you liked without knowing what it's like first?

brakesnow > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 16:26

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Good on you, I approve of this approach. If you must keep one example of such a beautiful car locked up for the most part, having another to enjoy takes away many enjoyment vs. preservation headaches.

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 16:28

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Yup. I can never understand why some people refuse to try a car just because of its badge. I mean look at the NSX. Honda had never built anything as amazing as that car up to that point. So those that were big headed or just ignorant inevitably missed out.

Brian Silvestro > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 16:39

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That car is going to appreciate like you wouldn't believe (at least that's what I'm guessing). It's so cool, awesome, and affordable. Not to mention reliable!

CAcoalminer > Brian Silvestro 05/23/2014 at 16:44

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I believe so as well.

CAcoalminer > brakesnow 05/23/2014 at 16:46

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Yeah. I've also modified the blue one so it's always fun to drive the two back-to-back and see whether the mods have improved the car or not.

brakesnow > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 16:54

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Interesting, what upgrades does it have? Power mods or handling mods?

CAcoalminer > brakesnow 05/23/2014 at 17:04

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Both. Here's a list of most of them:

Whipple 4.0L Supercharger

Whipple Carbon Intake support sleeve

Accufab dual blade throttle body

Ford Racing short shifter

CoolTech Bumper Delete Exhaust

30lb Boost Gauge

Safecraft Fire suppression system

Billet CNC machined Engine brace bars Ceramic Coated in Blue

Billet CNC machined Clamshell vents (Tops and Sides) Finished in Factory color finishes

Black Ceramic Coated Valve Covers

Blue and Black Coil Covers

CoolTech Transmission Cooler

GT40 Concept Engine bay Res Caps in Satin Silver

CDC Bumper Delete Kit

Penske 3 way Adjustable Suspension with Ext Res.

Color Matched Coil Springs

Butterfly Door Kit

Carbon Fiber Rear Belly Pan and Rear diffusers

Carbon Fiber Side Splitters

Carbon Fiber Front Spoiler

Carbon Fiber Side Scoops

Carbon Fiber Rear Window Surrounds

Carbon Fiber Door Panels

Carbon Fiber Door Trim Rings

Carbon Fiber Door Handles

Carbon Fiber Center Console with Storage

Carbon Fiber McIntosh Relocation Storage Pocket

Carbon Fiber Gauge Bezel

Carbon Fiber Gauge Binnacle

Carbon Fiber Steering wheel Spokes

Carbon Fiber Double Din Radio Console

Pioneer Double Din Radio with Navigation, Reverse Camera, Sat Radio, Bluetooth, etc.

JL Audio Class D Amp Powering 8 pioneer Sub in Custom Fitted Enclosure.

Memphis Car audio Component Set in Doors

Full Alcantara and Carbon Seats with Blue Stitching and Red Sparco Logo

Alcantara Steering wheel with Yellow Center Stripe and White Stitching

Alcantara Door Insert pads

Alcantara Floor mats

Billet CNC Machined Ford GT UPPER SEAT INSERTS

HRE P101 20 inch Wheels in Brushed Clear

Michelin Super Sport Tires (F-265, R-345)

Custom GT Logo Lug Nuts

Red Brembo Brakes

Lightly Smoked Taillights, marker lights, headlights and fog lights

Full Clear Bra covering entire front end of the car from the Windshield forward (Full Bumper, Full Fenders, Full Hood, Headlights, fog lights, Full rocker Panels, Side flares, etc.

B_dol > CAcoalminer 05/23/2014 at 18:27

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Any amount of time spent in a GT-R is time well spent. Cheers to reliving the glory days in a previous car of yours! I'm sure many members would like a spin in their cars of days past.

CAcoalminer > PushToStart 05/23/2014 at 19:03

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Sorry it took me so long to reply to you.

I think anyone who says the GT-R lacks "personality" is talking rubbish. As I mentioned above, the car makes these mechanical noises from the moment you start it up to when you slot it into drive all the way until you get out of second gear. Essentially it involves you from the moment you press the "start" button. In addition, I challenge anyone to floor it through the first three gears and let off at redline in fourth gear and still call it boring or soulless. If the combination of two turbos whooshing and a unique engine growl doesn't affect the driver in some way, I would question the driver not the car. In addition, the suspension is rough and always keeps you on your toes when driving quickly on a twisty, bumpy road. Basically, the car isn't the greatest at any one thing (steering feel, brake feedback, etc.) but does perform more than adequately, and usually is one of the best, in each.

If I've learned anything from my years of super car ownership, it's that they each have unique qualities that differentiates each of them from the others. In the GT-R's case, I would say it leaves you with a huge amount of confidence to explore its massive limits because of its glue like grip.

The best way I can describe the GT-R is that its the quiet kid in the corner who doesn't feel the need to show off and yet when the time is right, blows everyone away with its abilities.

CAcoalminer > B_dol 05/23/2014 at 19:05

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Thanks it was definitely fun to experience the car again.

brakesnow > CAcoalminer 05/24/2014 at 21:49

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Wow, sounds like a very complete and well rounded build. Must be very interesting to be able to drive two very different approaches to supercar-level performance (Old school modded Ford GT, and the more new school MP4-12C) on a regular basis. Your taste in cars is broad and extremely well cultured.

CAcoalminer > brakesnow 05/24/2014 at 22:10

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Thank you. There is definitely a diverse difference between the two.

What is your favorite car?

brakesnow > CAcoalminer 05/29/2014 at 02:00

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The McLaren P1. In terms of something I could realistically own in my lifetime, the Audi R8 V10.

CAcoalminer > brakesnow 05/29/2014 at 09:13

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Oh believe me anything is possible with a lot of hard work and a little luck. I would have never guessed I'd be in the position I currently am. If you truly want something don't be afraid to strive for it.

iLikeCarsAndSkiing > CAcoalminer 06/02/2014 at 18:25

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Those are both gorgeous! Would love to see a pic of the alcantara interior in the blue one... The interior of a car has just as big of an impact as the exterior in my mind. Also, what noteworthy cars did you own before these three?

CAcoalminer > iLikeCarsAndSkiing 06/02/2014 at 19:40

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Here you go:

Concerning cars I've previously owned, the two above are probably the best but I've also had a Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0, GT2 RS, and Carrera GT.

iLikeCarsAndSkiing > CAcoalminer 06/02/2014 at 20:35

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That is quite the stable! Why did you sell the CGT?

CAcoalminer > iLikeCarsAndSkiing 06/02/2014 at 21:20

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Thanks. I've definitely been blessed.

There were a number of reasons but the two main ones were its maintenance costs and the fact that I'm old. For instance, every 4 years it required a $25,000 engine out service. Also, I'm 72 now and my dexterity isn't what it used to be, so I was worried i'd over rev the car or stall it because I wouldn't be able to shift the gears fast enough.

Jim > CAcoalminer 06/13/2014 at 16:21

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2 Things as a 2009 GT-R owner

1 - there is something wrong with your brakes. Get them checked out, mine have great grip right at the top of the pedal and are very easy to modulate.

2 - Tuning will fix the clunky start. Updated LC programs (LC5) aren't just for launch control - they also change the clutch engagements and other transmission params. Now that these older cars are starting to be out of warranty, there is no reason not to add a Cobb or Ecutek tune (just for the transmission).

CAcoalminer > Jim 06/13/2014 at 17:52

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Concerning your first point, the brakes and their fluids are completely stock and have never been modified by myself or the second owner. Keeping this in mind, it's odd that yours are so different in the amount of feedback and bite they provide. Are yours still completely stock?

Concerning the transmission tuning, I've definitely heard about it but there doesn't seem to be a consensus on whether LC4 or 5 is better. Also, some people said that they wear the clutches more than LC1. In addition, it's my son's car now, so it's up to him whether he wants to modify it or not.

Have you done any other mods other than LC5? My son is definitely going to upgrade the tires to Michelin Pilot Super Sports when the Bridgestones are finished and is considering the Litchfield suspension kit.

Finally, how did you stumble upon such an old thread?

B_dol > CAcoalminer 06/13/2014 at 19:19

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Revisited this post as it got put on the "Best of Oppo" a few weeks back. Looking at the used prices of these cars (dropping quickly), do you see it as a good value?

CAcoalminer > B_dol 06/13/2014 at 20:12

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Huh that's hard to say, as I'm definitely not a car expert and have never worked in the industry. That being said, in my opinion, once the R36 generation comes out they will be. Everyone will want the new generation so prices will initially dip and then flatten out.

Once the prices drop, I think it will be an even more amazing value than it already is, as you just won't be able to get the same combination of a powerful engine, advanced transmission, powerful brakes, roomy interior, and gigantic (for its segment) trunk for less. Yes, you will have to make some compromises, at least in the early ones, in terms of transmission noise and ride but even these aren't so terrible as to be deal breakers. Also, if you get an early car that's had its transmission replaced under warranty, then you should have absolutely nothing to worry about, as the rest of the car is solid. Honestly, the transmission never gave myself or the second owner any trouble but it is something you should be aware of, as the forums report that some early cars' transmissions are very solid while others just go bang one day without warning. In addition, these cars might become collectors items one day, as they are the first generation to be sold in the U.S. However, this last point is complete speculation on my part.

B_dol > CAcoalminer 06/13/2014 at 21:07

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Exactly my thoughts. If the prices dip below $60-65K on the 2011 refresh ones, that is an extreme bargain for the performance, exclusivity and durability (I think?) you get. I also happen to like the looks of the car unlike most.

Now, whether or not that is the car to buy for $60K is up for debate. I would be cross shopping with used Aston Martin V8 Vantages, Audi R8 V8 etc. The thing is, I feel like it really is a budget supercar when it comes to maintenance, which is where the brunt of a depreciated used car cost comes in.

CAcoalminer > B_dol 06/13/2014 at 21:41

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Durability really isn't an issue with the 2011+ models as long as you don't modify them too heavily and do regular maintenance.

Like I tell everyone, drive every car you're interested in, do your research, and then go for it and don't look back. All three I'm sure are great cars so it really comes down to which one fulfills your needs and aspirations best. Of the three, the GT-R is definitely the cheapest to maintain if you get all of your work done through dealership. However, if you have someone else do, like a tuner, the prices might be a bit more similar.

TireKicker22 > CAcoalminer 07/24/2014 at 18:24

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Hey Coalminer. I've always been a fan of the GT-R and was hoping you could tell me more about your ownership experience with it.

CAcoalminer > TireKicker22 07/25/2014 at 09:09

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Hi TireKicker. I don't have time to put together the cohesive response that I would like to right now but maybe by tonight or definitely by tomorrow. I'm always glad to talk cars with a fellow enthusiast.

Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. > CAcoalminer 07/25/2014 at 09:10

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You are 72 and on OPPO? You are awesome!

CAcoalminer > Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. 07/25/2014 at 09:14

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Haha yes and I don't know about that. I love talking to fellow car enthusiasts and, outside of car shows, there are very few opportunities to do. Also, I enjoy seeing what the younger generation views as "cool" or interesting.

Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. > CAcoalminer 07/25/2014 at 09:20

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I just found out my city has a cars and coffee so I'm finally going to try and check out the scene. I feel pretty bad about what my generation has done to great cars, e.g. stance.

CAcoalminer > Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. 07/25/2014 at 20:44

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You definitely should. You would get to meet some interesting individuals and view some wonderful vehicles. Also, you never know, one of them might take you for a ride.

Haha. While stance isn't my favorite new trend, I do like seeing the new and interesting things people are doing with cars.