This is Ralph Barbosa review of his dream car 1971 GTR and his first drive in it.
Design and Exterior
The 1971 GT-R featured a no-nonsense, functional design that emphasized performance and aerodynamics. Its body had a muscular and aggressive stance, with flared wheel arches to accommodate wider tires—a necessity for its racing pedigree. The car was offered exclusively in a two-door coupe version for this model year, giving it a sleeker, sportier look compared to the earlier four-door version. The front end showcased round headlights and a prominent grille adorned with the iconic GT-R badge, symbolizing its elite status in the Skyline lineup. A ducktail rear spoiler added both visual flair and aerodynamic functionality.
The car’s lightweight construction was critical to its performance. Nissan used thinner steel panels and minimal soundproofing to reduce weight, tipping the scales at just over 1,100 kilograms (2,425 pounds). Despite its simplicity, the Hakosuka had a timeless charm, with a design that still captivates enthusiasts decades later.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 1971 GT-R was powered by the legendary S20 engine, a 2.0-liter inline-six derived from Nissan’s racing experience in the Prince R380 sports car. This naturally aspirated engine featured advanced technologies for its time, including dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and triple Mikuni-Solex carburetors. It produced an impressive 160 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 130 lb-ft of torque, providing thrilling performance for a car of its era.
Power was sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, and the car featured an advanced limited-slip differential to maximize traction. Combined with its lightweight construction, the Hakosuka GT-R could achieve remarkable acceleration and handling, making it a dominant force on the track.
Suspension and Handling
The 1971 GT-R was equipped with a race-bred suspension system, featuring independent struts at the front and a semi-trailing arm setup at the rear. This configuration allowed the car to handle tight corners with precision, and it provided excellent road feedback to the driver. Coupled with wide, high-performance tires and a finely tuned chassis, the GT-R became renowned for its agility and balance.
Motorsport Legacy
The KPGC10 GT-R established itself as a motorsport legend in the early 1970s. It competed in Japan’s domestic touring car races, where it became nearly unstoppable. With a staggering 50 victories in just three years, the Hakosuka GT-R earned its reputation as the "Godzilla" of its era, a title that would carry through subsequent generations of GT-R models. This dominance on the racetrack cemented its place in automotive history.
Interior and Features
Inside, the 1971 GT-R offered a driver-focused environment. The cabin was minimalist, with basic amenities to keep the car lightweight. A three-spoke steering wheel, sporty bucket seats, and an analog instrument cluster emphasized functionality over luxury. While creature comforts were sparse, the Hakosuka delivered a pure and engaging driving experience that made it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Cultural Significance
The 1971 Nissan GT-R is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of Japan’s rise in the automotive world. Its combination of cutting-edge engineering, motorsport success, and iconic design has made it a highly sought-after classic. Original examples of the KPGC10 GT-R are rare and command high prices in today’s collector car market, often exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Legacy
The 1971 GT-R laid the foundation for the GT-R nameplate, which would evolve into a line of high-performance vehicles revered globally. From its humble beginnings in the Hakosuka to the modern R35 GT-R, the legacy of the 1971 model lives on as the car that started it all.
Whether admired for its engineering, celebrated for its racing success, or cherished as a classic, the 1971 Nissan GT-R is a true automotive legend that continues to inspire car enthusiasts worldwide.