Suspension & Performance: The GT-R’s Cornering Weapon
The Nissan Skyline GT-R’s reputation as a track dominator is rooted in its highly sophisticated suspension and all-wheel-drive systems, which were revolutionary for a production car.
Advanced Suspension Geometry
The legendary R32, R33, and R34 generations all featured multi-link suspension on all four wheels. This complex geometry allows for meticulous control over wheel movement, ensuring the tire contact patch remains maximized for grip during hard cornering, braking, and acceleration. This independent setup was crucial for minimizing body roll and maintaining composure under the immense forces generated by the twin-turbo RB26DETT engine.
The ATTESA E-TS System
The core of the GT-R’s performance is the ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Electronic Torque Split) All-Wheel Drive system.
- RWD Bias: The system is inherently rear-wheel-drive (RWD) biased, operating with power primarily sent to the rear wheels under normal conditions. This preserves the agile, engaging feel of a RWD sports car.
- Electronic Torque Split: When the system detects rear wheel slip (loss of traction), a sophisticated computer and electro-hydraulic clutch pack instantly varies the torque split, sending up to 50% of the engine’s power to the front axle. This seamless engagement provides extraordinary traction, allowing the GT-R to exit corners with brutal efficiency and setting it apart from competitors.
Enhanced Handling
Later models, like the R33 and R34 V-Spec, featured the ATTESA E-TS Pro system and Super HICAS four-wheel steering. The Pro system added an Active Limited-Slip Differential (Active LSD) to the rear, which could electronically split torque between the rear wheels. When combined with the four-wheel steering, these technologies provided the driver with a level of control and high-speed stability that earned the GT-R the moniker “Godzilla” for its dominance on the track.