I have a passion for cars. Specifically, cars that go fast around a race track. Two years ago I bought a Porsche Cayman and she has been a loyal and refined companion around town and at the track. Perfect balance, no surprises, totally safe – no under steer I wasn't expecting, no over steer I didn't ask for. FAST, but not too fast.
Cayman, ahhh….I could be seen with her at a cocktail party, I could get down with her at the track. A happy existence, indeed.
Today, I drove a friends Nissan GTR. It's been big news that she was coming to the states. Born in Japan as a super car killer, rumors were wild. 500 hp, four wheel drive, crazy flappy paddle shifter and internal display screens built by the guys that programmed the Grand Turismo video game. Oh yeah, she is HOTTTT. A little scary, but HOTTTT. That's not for me.
The test drive started off simple, easy. Out of the parking lot in automatic, pedal down, 90MPH..Woooooow, the thing is in 4th gear before you even blink, but you never lose your place on the torque curve – ever.
Out on the highway, she was crazy – could I be seen with her? She was exciting – but looked at little, out there. With manual shifting fully engaged, and millisecond shifts under my finders I could overtake cars at 70mph like they were standing still. Always, more torque, always…..more torque. Unlike her wild-ass sister the 350Z she was more refined and WAY faster. 350Z sounded like a bag-o-cats at redline, exciting but also annoying – GTR was quiet and I had the feeling she was just getting started.
Out at the apex of our route, launch control was engaged. Brake down, Gas pedal down, BAM.. Moment of slight unconsciousness.. 0 to 60 in 3 point something… it's unclear to me now. 130MPH and rock solid handling. This car can go faster than…. I can.
Back into the parking lot.
She was great. But what a crazy ride, this car is nuts. My friend told me she is pointed exactly at my demographic. I don't know. I'm a little scared.
Comments