Nissan Sunny GTI-R: A Rally Legend Revisited

May 30
18:50

2024

John Cena Smith

John Cena Smith

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The Nissan Sunny GTI-R, also known as the Nissan Pulsar GTI-R in Japan, is a rally car that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. This article delves into the specifics of this iconic vehicle, its engineering marvels, and its journey through the world of motorsport.

A Rally-Bred Machine

The Nissan Sunny GTI-R was designed with one goal in mind: victory. This car was equipped with the ATTESA 4x4 drive system,Nissan Sunny GTI-R: A Rally Legend Revisited Articles a simpler and more cost-effective version compared to the ATTESA ETS found in the Skyline GT-R. This system, coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox, provided the car with excellent reliability and lower production costs.

Variants and Specifications

In Japan, the Sunny GTI-R was available in two main variants: the RA and the RB. The RA variant was more luxury-oriented, featuring ABS, power windows, mirrors, and alloy wheels. On the other hand, the RB variant was designed for competition, lacking ABS and weighing 30 kg less than the RA. The RB also had shorter gear ratios, making it more suitable for rallying.

Nismo, Nissan's motorsport division, offered an even more exclusive version. This variant included a roll cage, racing seats, custom suspension, and a more aggressive differential, making it a formidable machine on the rally circuit.

Engineering Marvels

Engine

  • Model: SR20DET Red Top
  • Turbo: Garrett T28 with intercooler
  • Configuration: Double overhead camshaft, 16 valve
  • Displacement: 1998cc
  • Compression Ratio: 8.3:1
  • Bore x Stroke: 86x86mm
  • Maximum Power: 230 hp at 6400 rpm (220 hp for U.S. spec)
  • Maximum Torque: 280 Nm at 4800 rpm (266 Nm for U.S. spec)
  • Cut-off: 7500 rpm

Transmission

  • Gearbox: 5-speed manual
  • Drive System: ATTESA AWD

Dimensions and Weight

Variant Weight (kg) Length (mm) Width (mm) Height (mm)
Sunny 1240 3975 1690 1410
Pulsar RA 1220 3975 1690 1410
RB Press 1190 3975 1690 1410

Performance

  • 0-100 km/h: 5.6 sec
  • 0-400m: 13.5 sec
  • Top Speed: 232 km/h

Brakes and Tires

  • Front Brake Discs: 257mm
  • Rear Brake Discs: 258mm
  • Tires: 195/55VR14 or 185/60VR14

The Rally Journey

Despite its engineering prowess, the Sunny GTI-R faced numerous challenges in the world of rallying. Nissan Japan and Nissan Motorsport Europe (NME) had their differences, primarily due to the car's inconsistent performance in rallies. After nine tests over two years, Nissan Japan decided to pull the plug on the European division's rally efforts.

However, the car found success in regional rallies, particularly in the Canary Islands, where drivers like Carlos Alonso Lamberti and Jose Luis Ferraz, known as "The Windward Poet," earned the car a stellar reputation.

Legacy

The Nissan Sunny GTI-R remains a beloved machine among rally enthusiasts. Its engineering brilliance and rally pedigree have cemented its place in automotive history.

Interesting Stats

  • The Nissan Sunny GTI-R's 0-100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds was faster than many sports cars of its era, including the Porsche 911 Carrera 2 (5.7 seconds) source.
  • The car's top speed of 232 km/h was comparable to the Ferrari 348 TB, which had a top speed of 275 km/h source.

The Nissan Sunny GTI-R is more than just a car; it's a testament to Nissan's engineering capabilities and a symbol of rallying excellence.

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