Nissan Sunny GTI-R: A Rally Legend

May 30
18:48

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 high-performance marvel that emerged from the factory with a singular goal: victory. This compact powerhouse, based on the Nissan Sunny N14 platform, was Nissan's ambitious attempt to dominate the world rally scene in the early 1990s.

The Birth of a Rally Icon

In August 1990,Nissan Sunny GTI-R: A Rally Legend Articles the first Pulsar GTI-R rolled off the production line in Japan. At a time when rally cars needed to be extravagant to meet the demands of the sport, the GTI-R stood out with its aggressive design. The car featured large hood vents for its intercoolers, substantial flaps to maintain ground contact, and oversized bumpers with ample air intakes to cool its mechanical components.

The SR20DET Engine: A Technical Marvel

The heart of the Nissan Sunny GTI-R is its legendary SR20DET engine. For those familiar with Japanese performance cars, this engine code is synonymous with power and reliability. Let's break down what makes this engine special:

  • SR: Indicates a 4-cylinder engine with an aluminum cylinder block and head, double overhead camshafts, and four valves per cylinder.
  • 20: Denotes the engine's capacity of 1,998cc, or 2 liters.
  • D: Stands for dual camshaft, a feature inherent to the SR block.
  • E: Represents electronic fuel injection.
  • T: Indicates the presence of a turbocharger, specifically a Garrett T28, which operates at a boost pressure of 0.5 bars in the road version.

Performance and Specifications

The Nissan Sunny GTI-R was designed to meet the homologation requirements for Group A rally cars, which mandated the production of at least 5,000 units. This requirement led to the creation of several iconic rally cars, including the Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta HF Integrale, and Toyota Celica GT-Four.

Specification Details
Engine SR20DET
Displacement 1,998cc (2.0L)
Turbocharger Garrett T28
Boost Pressure 0.5 bars
Power Output 227 hp (169 kW)
Torque 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
0-60 mph 5.4 seconds
Top Speed 144 mph (232 km/h)

The GTI-R's Rally Legacy

Nissan's foray into the world of rallying with the GTI-R was a bold move. The car's performance on the rally circuit was impressive, but it faced stiff competition from established players. Despite this, the GTI-R earned a place in the annals of rally history.

Interesting Stats

  • Production Numbers: Only around 15,000 units of the Nissan Sunny GTI-R were produced, making it a rare gem for car enthusiasts and collectors. Source: Nissan Global
  • Weight: The GTI-R had a curb weight of approximately 1,240 kg (2,733 lbs), which contributed to its agile handling and impressive acceleration. Source: Car and Driver
  • Rally Success: The GTI-R achieved notable success in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with its best finish being a 3rd place in the 1992 Rally of New Zealand. Source: WRC Archive

Conclusion

The Nissan Sunny GTI-R remains a testament to Nissan's engineering prowess and competitive spirit. Its combination of a powerful SR20DET engine, rally-inspired design, and limited production numbers make it a sought-after classic. Whether you're a rally enthusiast or a car collector, the GTI-R's legacy is one worth celebrating.

For more information on the Nissan Sunny GTI-R and its impact on the rally world, check out Nissan's official history and WRC's archives.

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