In September 2024, Nissan’s renowned motorsport division, NISMO (Nissan Motorsports), celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of pushing the limits of speed, technology, and innovation. This milestone offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on NISMO’s rich history, groundbreaking cars, and impact on motorsports and commercial vehicles.
A Brief History of NISMO and Its Racing Legacy
Founded in 1984, NISMO was created with a clear mission: to enhance Nissan’s brand identity through competitive motorsport performance. From the outset, NISMO entered prestigious championships, setting the stage for a legacy of domination and innovation.
In 1985, NISMO’s participation in the All-Japan Endurance Championship and the All-Japan Touring Car Championship solidified its presence in motorsport. A standout achievement came when the division made waves internationally by securing a victory at Japan’s World Endurance Championship (WEC), earning a place in the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, NISMO became synonymous with success, playing a pivotal role in the growth of Japanese motorsports. Whether on domestic circuits or the global stage, NISMO’s commitment to performance and innovation has never wavered.
NISMO’s Most Iconic Cars and Race Victories
R32 GT-R: The Birth of “Godzilla”
One of NISMO’s most iconic contributions to motorsport is the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R. This model became a motorsport legend, earning the fearsome nickname “Godzilla” for its dominance on the track. From 1990 to 1993, the R32 GT-R won an astounding 29 consecutive races in the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC), making it one of history’s most formidable race cars.
Internationally, the R32 GT-R made headlines by claiming back-to-back victories at the Bathurst 1000 in 1991 and 1992, further cementing its status as a global racing icon.
Nissan R390 GT1
In 1997 and 1998, NISMO collaborated with TWR to develop the Nissan R390 GT1, a car designed to compete at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1998, the R390 GT1 delivered a historic performance, finishing 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 10th. While only one road-going version of the R390 GT1 was ever produced, it is a testament to NISMO’s engineering excellence and racing prowess.
Daytona 24 Hours Victory
A pivotal moment in NISMO’s history occurred in 1992 when the Nissan R91CP, piloted by Masahiro Hasemi, Kazuyoshi Hoshino, and Toshio Suzuki, triumphed at the Daytona 24 Hours. The team finished with a ten-lap lead, setting a record of 762 laps—a feat that remains unbeaten to this day.
Technological Advancements Driven by NISMO
NISMO’s relentless pursuit of racing success has driven groundbreaking technological innovations that have left an indelible mark on both motorsports and consumer vehicles.
One of the most notable innovations is the development of the ATTESA all-wheel-drive system, first introduced in the R32 GT-R. This system gave the car unparalleled traction and control, contributing to its dominance on the track. NISMO also introduced the legendary RB26DETT turbocharged inline-six engine, renowned for its power and reliability.
Another significant innovation was creating the HICAS (High Capacity Active Steering) system, which improved handling by enabling rear-wheel steering for enhanced cornering performance. NISMO has also been at the forefront of advancements in aerodynamics, engine tuning, and chassis development, continuously pushing the limits of performance.
What’s Next for NISMO After 40 Years?
As NISMO looks ahead to its fifth decade, the division is poised to continue leading the charge in automotive innovation. With the industry moving towards electrification, NISMO is expected to play a key role in developing high-performance electric vehicles for Nissan, blending sustainability with speed.
Motorsport remains at the heart of NISMO’s mission, and the division will likely continue its involvement in both traditional and emerging racing categories. Whether in endurance racing, electric car competitions, or new hybrid motorsport formats, NISMO is set to adapt and excel.
Moreover, NISMO’s influence on Nissan’s road cars is far from over. As the brand embraces new technologies and materials, NISMO will continue to push the boundaries of performance, ensuring Nissan’s commercial cars remain competitive and exciting for drivers worldwide.
