A Tour of Three Prefectures - Japan 2015 (Day 5 is up!)
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17 November, day 3 (Kanagawa, Tokyo)
Part 6 - Nissan Heritage Collection - Nissan Prototype Racing History
Continuing on, now we're on to the big guns:
Nissan Le Man's Contenders by Paul Li, on Flickr
Welp, that's good enough. Why should I even continue? You have started with the biggest guns on the block, nothing else that you posted after can even come remotely close to touching this... We have hit El Dorado, now there's no need to go back.
But putting that aside, it is interesting that Nissan toyed with the idea of moving aero with the R381, that concept would be right up the alley of teams such as Chaparral, which may end up be the actual truth, actually. Other than that, the only surprising thing for me is the estimated value for the R390 Road Car; 100 million yen would make someone very happy, if Nissan ever decides to put the car for sale... something which I think won't happen unless Nissan files for bankrupcy.
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I'm glad you felt that way, but believe it or not... it ain't over yet, it gets WAY better.
Teaser:
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
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17 November, day 3 (Kanagawa, Tokyo)
Part 7/9 - Nissan Heritage Collection - Nissan Rally & Racing History
Sorry for the long wait, work and study has been very busy lately. I'm finally able to sit down to continue with this thread.
Where were we? Ah, Nissan heaven. Now that we have the classic road cars and endurance cars covered, we can move on the something even more cool, vintage classic racing cars.
Let's begin with a legend
Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R (1968:KPGC-10) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969.[12] Called the PGC-10 (KPGC-10 for later coupé version) internally and Hakosuka (ハコスカ) by fans. Hako (ハコ) means Box in Japanese, and suka（スカ） is short for Skyline (スカイライン; Sukairain). It used the 2.0 L (1998 cc) S20 I6. This new DOHC engine (which was designed by the former Prince engineers) produced 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m), and was similar to the GR8 engine used in the Prince R380 racing car.
Rear view of 71' Skyline GT-X
The GT-R began as a sedan, but a 2-door coupé version was debuted in October 1970 and introduced in March 1971. The cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment to be as light as possible for racing, and performed well at the track. The sedan racked up 33 victories in less than two years, and the coupé stretched this to 50 through 1972.[12]
The C10 raced against many cars including the Toyota Corona 1600GT (RT55), Isuzu Bellett GTR, Mazda Familia (R100) & Capella (RX-2) – even Porsche. In late 1971 the new Mazda RX-3 became the GT-R's main rival. The GT-R managed a few more victories before the RX-3 ended the GT-R's winning streak.
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1972 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1972 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The C110 Skyline became a great hit with the catchphrase "Ken & Mary" at its debut in September 1972. The GT-R version was launched in January of the following year. However, only 197 units were produced before stricter exhaust emission regulations came into force. This vehicle was the display model used in the 1972 Tokyo Motor Show and not an actual competition machine.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1971 : HS30), (1972 : HLS30), (1973 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1971 : HS30) - Left
The successor to the Fairlady, the Fairlady Z, had a closed, fast-back coupe-style body. It was launched in November 1969. The export model, the 240Z (150PS L24 engine) was added to the domestic lineup in November 1971. This commemorative car was the overall winner of the 19th Safari Rally in April 1971 (driven by E. Hermann / H. Schuller ).
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1972 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1972 : HLS30) - Middle
This No.5 car was driven by R. Aaltonen and J. Todt , coming in 3rd overall in the 41st Rallye Monte-Carlo in January 1972. The Rallye Monte-Carlo is often referred to as the "snow and ice rally", and it is accepted that FR cars are difficult to control, so when it came in 3rd this car was the center of attention for everyone around the world involved with rallying. Helped too by the brilliant achievement of winning the Safari Rally in the previous year, the number of Z rally cars in Japan increased.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1973 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1973 : HLS30) - Right
The Fairlady Z (S30) was launched as the 2000 series in November 1969. Two years later in November 1971, the 240Z was added to the domestic lineup (it had previously only been available as a North American export model). Offering high power and superior maneuverability, the 240Z did well in overseas rallies, coming in 1st overall in the 1971 and 1973 Safari Rally. This commemorative car is the No.1 car that won in 1973, driven by S. Mehta and Lofty Drews.
Datsun Sunny 1200 Coupe GX-5 (1972 : KB110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The B110 was launched in January 1970, and the GX-5 with its 5-speed floor shift was added two years later. This vehicle was used as a test car by Ad. Section No. 3 (Omori) and equipped for TS racing with accessories such as over-fenders. The KB110 performed spectacularly on the circuit, winning the Fuji GC in 1971-74, 1977, 1979-80 and 1982.
Cherry Coupe X-1 (1973 : KPE10) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The Cherry debuted as Nissan's first FF car in October 1970, with the same A10 and A12 engines as those in the Sunny. In November of the following year, a coupe was added to the lineup. The top-tier "X-1" model was powered by the SU twin-carb A12 (80ps) engine and attracted many younger drivers. In the 1972 Fuji GC Series Minor Touring class, it performed well alongside the Sunny, which won that year's title.
Datsun Bluebird U 1800SSS (1973 : P610), Violet (1977 : KP711) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Datsun Bluebird U 1800SSS (1973 : P610) - Left
At the 21st East Africa Safari Rally in 1973, the same Nissan team's Fairlady 240Z having just become the overall champion, this 1800SSS (H. Carlstrom ) performed brilliantly, coming in 2nd overall and winning its class, thus ensuring that people around the world would associate the name "Nissan" with car rallies. The 610's debut was in August 1971. There were two series, the 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter.
Nissan Violet (1977 : KP711) - Right
The first Violet (Datsun 710) appeared in January 1973. Two types of engines, the L14 and the L16, were used and the lineup included a sedan and hardtop. It performed well in overseas rallies. This commemorative car won the 12th Southern Cross Rally (Australia) in 1977. It is powered by a rally-use twin-cam, 16-valve engine.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z-G GTS-II (1973 : HS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Fairlady 240Z-G GTS-II (1973 : HS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
In November 1971, "240Z" with 2,400cc engine included in the Fairlady Z lineup in Japan. The top-of-the-line model, the 240ZG, featured a 190mm long nose, headlight covers and over-fenders as standard. This car is the test car for the Omori factory, which had an L28 engine with crossflow combustion chambers.
Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (1992 : RNN14) by Paul Li, on Flickr
This is the 230PS high-performance GTI-R version of the fourth-generation Pulsar (N14), launched in August 1990. Nissan entered this GTI-R in the 1991 and 1992 World Rally Championship events; its best achievement was to come in 3rd overall. This machine was driven by the S. Blomqvist/B. Malander team in the 1992 RAC Rally, UK.
Primera GT (1999 : P11) by Paul Li, on Flickr
From about 1992, an increasing number of European countries staged their own championship events based on the super touring car (4-door sedan with 2-liter engine). In the UK, the Primera had been performing well since the time of the P10. In 1999, out of 26 races it achieved 13 wins, coming first in the Manufacturers category, the Driver category, the Team category, and the Privateer category.
Part 7/9 - Nissan Heritage Collection - Nissan Rally & Racing History
Sorry for the long wait, work and study has been very busy lately. I'm finally able to sit down to continue with this thread.
Where were we? Ah, Nissan heaven. Now that we have the classic road cars and endurance cars covered, we can move on the something even more cool, vintage classic racing cars.
Let's begin with a legend
Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R (1968:KPGC-10) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969.[12] Called the PGC-10 (KPGC-10 for later coupé version) internally and Hakosuka (ハコスカ) by fans. Hako (ハコ) means Box in Japanese, and suka（スカ） is short for Skyline (スカイライン; Sukairain). It used the 2.0 L (1998 cc) S20 I6. This new DOHC engine (which was designed by the former Prince engineers) produced 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m), and was similar to the GR8 engine used in the Prince R380 racing car.
Rear view of 71' Skyline GT-X
The GT-R began as a sedan, but a 2-door coupé version was debuted in October 1970 and introduced in March 1971. The cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment to be as light as possible for racing, and performed well at the track. The sedan racked up 33 victories in less than two years, and the coupé stretched this to 50 through 1972.[12]
The C10 raced against many cars including the Toyota Corona 1600GT (RT55), Isuzu Bellett GTR, Mazda Familia (R100) & Capella (RX-2) – even Porsche. In late 1971 the new Mazda RX-3 became the GT-R's main rival. The GT-R managed a few more victories before the RX-3 ended the GT-R's winning streak.
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1972 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1972 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The C110 Skyline became a great hit with the catchphrase "Ken & Mary" at its debut in September 1972. The GT-R version was launched in January of the following year. However, only 197 units were produced before stricter exhaust emission regulations came into force. This vehicle was the display model used in the 1972 Tokyo Motor Show and not an actual competition machine.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1971 : HS30), (1972 : HLS30), (1973 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1971 : HS30) - Left
The successor to the Fairlady, the Fairlady Z, had a closed, fast-back coupe-style body. It was launched in November 1969. The export model, the 240Z (150PS L24 engine) was added to the domestic lineup in November 1971. This commemorative car was the overall winner of the 19th Safari Rally in April 1971 (driven by E. Hermann / H. Schuller ).
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1972 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1972 : HLS30) - Middle
This No.5 car was driven by R. Aaltonen and J. Todt , coming in 3rd overall in the 41st Rallye Monte-Carlo in January 1972. The Rallye Monte-Carlo is often referred to as the "snow and ice rally", and it is accepted that FR cars are difficult to control, so when it came in 3rd this car was the center of attention for everyone around the world involved with rallying. Helped too by the brilliant achievement of winning the Safari Rally in the previous year, the number of Z rally cars in Japan increased.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z (1973 : HLS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
(1973 : HLS30) - Right
The Fairlady Z (S30) was launched as the 2000 series in November 1969. Two years later in November 1971, the 240Z was added to the domestic lineup (it had previously only been available as a North American export model). Offering high power and superior maneuverability, the 240Z did well in overseas rallies, coming in 1st overall in the 1971 and 1973 Safari Rally. This commemorative car is the No.1 car that won in 1973, driven by S. Mehta and Lofty Drews.
Datsun Sunny 1200 Coupe GX-5 (1972 : KB110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The B110 was launched in January 1970, and the GX-5 with its 5-speed floor shift was added two years later. This vehicle was used as a test car by Ad. Section No. 3 (Omori) and equipped for TS racing with accessories such as over-fenders. The KB110 performed spectacularly on the circuit, winning the Fuji GC in 1971-74, 1977, 1979-80 and 1982.
Cherry Coupe X-1 (1973 : KPE10) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The Cherry debuted as Nissan's first FF car in October 1970, with the same A10 and A12 engines as those in the Sunny. In November of the following year, a coupe was added to the lineup. The top-tier "X-1" model was powered by the SU twin-carb A12 (80ps) engine and attracted many younger drivers. In the 1972 Fuji GC Series Minor Touring class, it performed well alongside the Sunny, which won that year's title.
Datsun Bluebird U 1800SSS (1973 : P610), Violet (1977 : KP711) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Datsun Bluebird U 1800SSS (1973 : P610) - Left
At the 21st East Africa Safari Rally in 1973, the same Nissan team's Fairlady 240Z having just become the overall champion, this 1800SSS (H. Carlstrom ) performed brilliantly, coming in 2nd overall and winning its class, thus ensuring that people around the world would associate the name "Nissan" with car rallies. The 610's debut was in August 1971. There were two series, the 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter.
Nissan Violet (1977 : KP711) - Right
The first Violet (Datsun 710) appeared in January 1973. Two types of engines, the L14 and the L16, were used and the lineup included a sedan and hardtop. It performed well in overseas rallies. This commemorative car won the 12th Southern Cross Rally (Australia) in 1977. It is powered by a rally-use twin-cam, 16-valve engine.
Nissan Fairlady 240Z-G GTS-II (1973 : HS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Fairlady 240Z-G GTS-II (1973 : HS30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
In November 1971, "240Z" with 2,400cc engine included in the Fairlady Z lineup in Japan. The top-of-the-line model, the 240ZG, featured a 190mm long nose, headlight covers and over-fenders as standard. This car is the test car for the Omori factory, which had an L28 engine with crossflow combustion chambers.
Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (1992 : RNN14) by Paul Li, on Flickr
This is the 230PS high-performance GTI-R version of the fourth-generation Pulsar (N14), launched in August 1990. Nissan entered this GTI-R in the 1991 and 1992 World Rally Championship events; its best achievement was to come in 3rd overall. This machine was driven by the S. Blomqvist/B. Malander team in the 1992 RAC Rally, UK.
Primera GT (1999 : P11) by Paul Li, on Flickr
From about 1992, an increasing number of European countries staged their own championship events based on the super touring car (4-door sedan with 2-liter engine). In the UK, the Primera had been performing well since the time of the P10. In 1999, out of 26 races it achieved 13 wins, coming first in the Manufacturers category, the Driver category, the Team category, and the Privateer category.
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- Valongo
- Hcclipper
Welcome back, Dac, good to see that work and studies have been going well enough to allow you to post here. The trip to the Warehouse cannot be left incomplete after all... And man, it just keeps on getting better; BTCC Primeras (classic TOCA 2 flashbacks right there), and a whole fleet of 1970's finest racing cars. It is a shame that the Kenmeri Skyline never had a chance to race for real in the hands of factory teams, but Nissan's show car still looks good regardless. Also, that Cherry just feels special (if that makes any sense); there's something heart-warming about seeing such a small racing car with such flared wheel arches... It's a nifty car, much like the Safari rally cars.
Also, no other pictures of the Silvia Silhouette? Blasphemy!
Also, no other pictures of the Silvia Silhouette? Blasphemy!
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Welcome back, Dac, good to see that work and studies have been going well enough to allow you to post here. The trip to the Warehouse cannot be left incomplete after all... And man, it just keeps on getting better; BTCC Primeras (classic TOCA 2 flashbacks right there), and a whole fleet of 1970's finest racing cars. It is a shame that the Kenmeri Skyline never had a chance to race for real in the hands of factory teams, but Nissan's show car still looks good regardless. Also, that Cherry just feels special (if that makes any sense); there's something heart-warming about seeing such a small racing car with such flared wheel arches... It's a nifty car, much like the Safari rally cars.
Also, no other pictures of the Silvia Silhouette? Blasphemy!
Hold your horses... it's coming shortly...
- 9,232
- Valongo
- Hcclipper
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17 November, day 3 (Kanagawa, Tokyo)
Part 8/9 - Nissan Heritage Collection - Nissan GT Racing History
And now we arrive at the last post of the Nissan Heritage Collection at Zama, and perhaps everyone's favourite - Nissan's GT collection. If you are not excited by this post, you may as well be a sack of potatoes.
From the 80s:
Silvia Super Silhouette (1983 : KS110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
This is the machine driven by K. Hoshino at the Fuji Super Silhouette races (held between 1979 and 1984). Super Silhouette cars looked like production cars outside, but sported Formula car engineering inside. In accordance with international Group 5 regulations, the engine was the same twin-carb LZ20B (570PS) used in the Skyline Super Silhouette.
And probably the most awesome looking racing car of all time
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
In the Super Silhouette races that started in 1979, Masahiro Hasemi competed in the 1982 and 1983 seasons driving this machine. The category allowed heavy modifications and this monster, although the same as a production car on the outside, is the equivalent of a Formula racing car on the inside. Its dynamic performance won many fans. The engine is a LZ20B turbo (570PS). Its race debut was in May 1982 and it did extremely well, chalking up 2 wins in 1982 and 5 wins in 1983.
And of course, the Skylines!
Nissan Racing History by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
A really cool looking R32 race car from a little know Nismo Le Man's project, crowd sourcing support for its Le Man's entry with the GT-R
Skyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
And the Endless demo car!
Nissan Skyline ENDLESS ADVAN GT-R N1 (2002 : BNR34) by Paul Li, on Flickr
And of course, some of the legendary Skylines that dominated the late 80s and early 90s.
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The R31, the seventh-generation Skyline, was launched on August 19, 1985. The 6-cylinder twin-cam engine, last used on the C110, was reintroduced with the R31 and together with its breakthrough HICAS 4-wheel steering system and card entry system (both world firsts), this model attracted much attention.
At launch, the R31 was available as either a 4-door sedan or a 4-door hardtop, but in May of the following year a coupe was added to the lineup. On August 21, 1987, the GTS-R - base car for Group A races - was launched as a limited-edition model (800 units). The GTR-S was a pure sports model, equipped with a Garrett high-caliber turbocharger and stainless steel exhaust manifold, increasing engine output from the GTS's 190PS to 210PS (both net values).
This one is the 1989 Nissan Skyline GTS-R (KHR31) for the Japanese Touring Car Championship (Group A)
Now, as I was practically drooling over this car like a fat kid over chocolate cake. One of the museum staff, an old man in a mechanic's overall, walked over to me and asked me to step back. I thought I was in trouble, hands caught in the cookie jar and all... but instead he put his hand under the door handle and pulled. That moment... had to be just as good, if not better than the first sighting of a girl undressing in front my own eyes. I would have asked to see what's under the bonnet, or crawl under the car to check out the chassis... but I wasn't going to push my luck.
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
And this... I could literally just go create a forum for this car
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The GT-R, reintroduced with the R32 (launched August 1989), made its debut at the opening race of the All Japan Championship in March 1990. In the 4 seasons running up to the last All Japan Championship, held in1993, the GT-R achieved a spectacular record, winning all 29 rounds. This No. 12 Calsonic ("CalsonicKansei" at present) Skyline (K. Hoshino/Masahiko Kageyama) was victorious in 1990 and 1993.
And because I behaved so well with the GTS-R, as I walked around to the side of this car...
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
the old man evenlifted the dress of this sultry supermodel opened the door to this fire-snorting 650bhp monster to allow me to take some seriously indecent photographs.
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
I can now die a satisfied man.
20151117-DSCF04617.jpg by Paul Li, on Flickr
But wait, not yet! Not with this outrageous arse in sight!
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
At the 1998 All Japan GT Championships, the E. Comas/Masami Kageyama team competed in a NISMO works machine (entry name: Pennzoil NISMO GT-R). Engine displacement was increased from 2,658cc to 2,708cc, and maximum output topped 500PS. In the 1998 season, Comas gained fame by taking the Driver's trophy.
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The equally stunning Skyline GT-R R34 Pennzoil was also parked behind this, but due to the positioning it was very difficult to photograph, for that I'm sorry. But I think we know that car all too well from Gran Turismo 2, and 3, and 4, and...
Besides, there are other beasts lurking around:
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Dayum!!~
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The only machines that can enter the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in the GT class are so-called GT cars, based on vehicles approved for use on public roads. Based on the Skyline GT-R, this vehicle was created as an official road car so NISMO could take part in the 1996 Le Mans; it was actually registered in the UK (although never marketed).
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
NISMO and Nissan initiated their "Le Mans Challenge: 3-year Plan" in 1995. It the first year, out of the 2 cars that competed, the No. 22 car (Fukuyama/Kondo/Kasuya) was 10th overall and 5th in its class. The following year, the No. 23 car (Hoshino/Hasemi/T.Suzuki) was 15th overall and 10th in the class. This commemorative car is the 1996 machine, No.23, entered as the "NISMO GT-R LM".
More recent SuperGT contenders that we're familiar with:
Nissan Motul Pitwork Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Motul Pitwork Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Xanavi Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan SuperGT Contenders by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Fairlady Z Xanavi GT by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan JRM R35 GT-R (FIA GT1) by Paul Li, on Flickr
After I got to this point, I felt quite light headed... I still couldn't believe where I was, and what I just saw, and what I was standing in the middle of. I looked at my watch and noticed I was already over running into their closing time. There were a few girls and mechanics looking in my general direction, wondering if I might play dumb and try to hide amongst the cars in an attempt to spend some quality time with the cars over night when the lights are out...yeah, that definitely had crossed my mind. However, all good things must end, and I'm sure one day I will return to this haven of all things good and Nissan. I packed up my gear and walked towards the lobby with my girlfriend, who has been truly awesome in understanding and putting up with my fetish for so long.
Back in the lobby, I was able to finally appreciate this beauty without too many people crowding around it...
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir when I say it really doesn't matter what brand or marque you like, but while not every car maker can produce a great car, a great car can come from any brand who dares to think outside the box and venture into the unknown.
Need I say more?
We may be in for an era of electric cars, but I'm confident there will be equally exciting vehicles in the decades to come. Now though, we must pay tribute to the past, and not forget the heros who made these machines come to life and changed so many of our lives.
This is Paul reporting from Nissan Heritage Collection, Zama City, Kanagawa, Japan.
Part 8/9 - Nissan Heritage Collection - Nissan GT Racing History
And now we arrive at the last post of the Nissan Heritage Collection at Zama, and perhaps everyone's favourite - Nissan's GT collection. If you are not excited by this post, you may as well be a sack of potatoes.
From the 80s:
Silvia Super Silhouette (1983 : KS110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
This is the machine driven by K. Hoshino at the Fuji Super Silhouette races (held between 1979 and 1984). Super Silhouette cars looked like production cars outside, but sported Formula car engineering inside. In accordance with international Group 5 regulations, the engine was the same twin-carb LZ20B (570PS) used in the Skyline Super Silhouette.
And probably the most awesome looking racing car of all time
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline Super Silhouette (1983 : KDR30) by Paul Li, on Flickr
In the Super Silhouette races that started in 1979, Masahiro Hasemi competed in the 1982 and 1983 seasons driving this machine. The category allowed heavy modifications and this monster, although the same as a production car on the outside, is the equivalent of a Formula racing car on the inside. Its dynamic performance won many fans. The engine is a LZ20B turbo (570PS). Its race debut was in May 1982 and it did extremely well, chalking up 2 wins in 1982 and 5 wins in 1983.
And of course, the Skylines!
Nissan Racing History by Paul Li, on FlickrSkyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
A really cool looking R32 race car from a little know Nismo Le Man's project, crowd sourcing support for its Le Man's entry with the GT-R
Skyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline GT-R "Club Le Mans (1989 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
And the Endless demo car!
Nissan Skyline ENDLESS ADVAN GT-R N1 (2002 : BNR34) by Paul Li, on FlickrAnd of course, some of the legendary Skylines that dominated the late 80s and early 90s.
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The R31, the seventh-generation Skyline, was launched on August 19, 1985. The 6-cylinder twin-cam engine, last used on the C110, was reintroduced with the R31 and together with its breakthrough HICAS 4-wheel steering system and card entry system (both world firsts), this model attracted much attention.
At launch, the R31 was available as either a 4-door sedan or a 4-door hardtop, but in May of the following year a coupe was added to the lineup. On August 21, 1987, the GTS-R - base car for Group A races - was launched as a limited-edition model (800 units). The GTR-S was a pure sports model, equipped with a Garrett high-caliber turbocharger and stainless steel exhaust manifold, increasing engine output from the GTS's 190PS to 210PS (both net values).
This one is the 1989 Nissan Skyline GTS-R (KHR31) for the Japanese Touring Car Championship (Group A)
Now, as I was practically drooling over this car like a fat kid over chocolate cake. One of the museum staff, an old man in a mechanic's overall, walked over to me and asked me to step back. I thought I was in trouble, hands caught in the cookie jar and all... but instead he put his hand under the door handle and pulled. That moment... had to be just as good, if not better than the first sighting of a girl undressing in front my own eyes. I would have asked to see what's under the bonnet, or crawl under the car to check out the chassis... but I wasn't going to push my luck.
Nissan Skyline GTS-R (1989 : KHR31) by Paul Li, on Flickr
And this... I could literally just go create a forum for this car
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The GT-R, reintroduced with the R32 (launched August 1989), made its debut at the opening race of the All Japan Championship in March 1990. In the 4 seasons running up to the last All Japan Championship, held in1993, the GT-R achieved a spectacular record, winning all 29 rounds. This No. 12 Calsonic ("CalsonicKansei" at present) Skyline (K. Hoshino/Masahiko Kageyama) was victorious in 1990 and 1993.
And because I behaved so well with the GTS-R, as I walked around to the side of this car...
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
the old man even
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1993 : BNR32) by Paul Li, on Flickr
I can now die a satisfied man.
20151117-DSCF04617.jpg by Paul Li, on Flickr
But wait, not yet! Not with this outrageous arse in sight!
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
At the 1998 All Japan GT Championships, the E. Comas/Masami Kageyama team competed in a NISMO works machine (entry name: Pennzoil NISMO GT-R). Engine displacement was increased from 2,658cc to 2,708cc, and maximum output topped 500PS. In the 1998 season, Comas gained fame by taking the Driver's trophy.
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1998 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The equally stunning Skyline GT-R R34 Pennzoil was also parked behind this, but due to the positioning it was very difficult to photograph, for that I'm sorry. But I think we know that car all too well from Gran Turismo 2, and 3, and 4, and...
Besides, there are other beasts lurking around:
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Dayum!!~
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Skyline GT-R LM(1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The only machines that can enter the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in the GT class are so-called GT cars, based on vehicles approved for use on public roads. Based on the Skyline GT-R, this vehicle was created as an official road car so NISMO could take part in the 1996 Le Mans; it was actually registered in the UK (although never marketed).
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1996 : BCNR33) by Paul Li, on Flickr
NISMO and Nissan initiated their "Le Mans Challenge: 3-year Plan" in 1995. It the first year, out of the 2 cars that competed, the No. 22 car (Fukuyama/Kondo/Kasuya) was 10th overall and 5th in its class. The following year, the No. 23 car (Hoshino/Hasemi/T.Suzuki) was 15th overall and 10th in the class. This commemorative car is the 1996 machine, No.23, entered as the "NISMO GT-R LM".
More recent SuperGT contenders that we're familiar with:
Nissan Motul Pitwork Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Motul Pitwork Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Xanavi Skyline R34 GT-R by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan SuperGT Contenders by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan Fairlady Z Xanavi GT by Paul Li, on Flickr
Nissan JRM R35 GT-R (FIA GT1) by Paul Li, on Flickr
After I got to this point, I felt quite light headed... I still couldn't believe where I was, and what I just saw, and what I was standing in the middle of. I looked at my watch and noticed I was already over running into their closing time. There were a few girls and mechanics looking in my general direction, wondering if I might play dumb and try to hide amongst the cars in an attempt to spend some quality time with the cars over night when the lights are out...yeah, that definitely had crossed my mind. However, all good things must end, and I'm sure one day I will return to this haven of all things good and Nissan. I packed up my gear and walked towards the lobby with my girlfriend, who has been truly awesome in understanding and putting up with my fetish for so long.
Back in the lobby, I was able to finally appreciate this beauty without too many people crowding around it...
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
Skyline H/T 2000GT-R (1973 : KPGC110) by Paul Li, on Flickr
I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir when I say it really doesn't matter what brand or marque you like, but while not every car maker can produce a great car, a great car can come from any brand who dares to think outside the box and venture into the unknown.
Need I say more?
We may be in for an era of electric cars, but I'm confident there will be equally exciting vehicles in the decades to come. Now though, we must pay tribute to the past, and not forget the heros who made these machines come to life and changed so many of our lives.
This is Paul reporting from Nissan Heritage Collection, Zama City, Kanagawa, Japan.
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There's no need to apologise. I was practically walking around with my camera trying to snap pictures in between my epileptic fits. Even I'm jealous of myself from that moment in time...First of all, I'd like to apologize for my like spam. Second of all, I'm extremely jealous.
As Liz Lemon famously said:
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17 November, day 3 (Kanagawa, Tokyo)
Part 9/9 - Day's end
Later that evening, after an hour of driving back to Yokohama and then attending a conveniently scheduled seminar at Kanagawa University as part of an exchange opportunity for my Masters Degree. The girlfriend and I were pretty exhausted from our day out.
After parking the car and the sky began to once again drizzling with November rain, we decided to hit the local joints for some much needed beer and Yakito (Japanese skewers) alongside the locals.
Wish I could actually understand what was written on the wall
The larger was great, as well as the treats.
The skewers were great too, but I was so hungry I forgot to take photos before they were all gone.
This stewed radish with black truffle was quite exquisite.
We left this place after a beer, because there was another bar we wanted to check out. The grilled meats and beer were excellent too, luckily.
We were thoroughly mellow after enjoying our relaxing dinner.
Then we carried our bellies back to the hotel contently. And no I won't describe what did or didn't happen in the hotel room, except that we slept like logs.
And on to day 4... where there are yet more highlights...
Part 9/9 - Day's end
Later that evening, after an hour of driving back to Yokohama and then attending a conveniently scheduled seminar at Kanagawa University as part of an exchange opportunity for my Masters Degree. The girlfriend and I were pretty exhausted from our day out.
After parking the car and the sky began to once again drizzling with November rain, we decided to hit the local joints for some much needed beer and Yakito (Japanese skewers) alongside the locals.
Wish I could actually understand what was written on the wall
The larger was great, as well as the treats.
The skewers were great too, but I was so hungry I forgot to take photos before they were all gone.
This stewed radish with black truffle was quite exquisite.
We left this place after a beer, because there was another bar we wanted to check out. The grilled meats and beer were excellent too, luckily.
We were thoroughly mellow after enjoying our relaxing dinner.
Then we carried our bellies back to the hotel contently. And no I won't describe what did or didn't happen in the hotel room, except that we slept like logs.
And on to day 4... where there are yet more highlights...
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- 9,232
- Valongo
- Hcclipper
I wasn't excited by that last Zama post, sue me and label my person as a "sack of potatoes". 
I kid, I kid, my eyes widened immediately after seeing both the Silvia and Skyline Super Silhouette cars, how in the heck could I not be excited by looking at Nissan's equivalent of El Dorado's treasures? If there's one thing we car fans should be grateful for, is the effort made by brands such as Nissan to preserve these cars, and let them roar once in a while so that they don't get rusty from lack of use. And after all is said and done, bring them back in, to enjoy retirement in the company of all their brothers... All in all, it was indeed a great "story arc", this Zama Warehouse journey, I can certainly understand your lightheaded feeling after all you had been through inside the building, I really do.
Also, whoever that old man may have been, you should definitely pay him a round of sake one day; normally, they'd be the first people to tell you to step away from the cars, not open the hood of a Calsonic GT500 Skyline R32 to show you the goods... 
And a quick question; why was the Clarion car missing a wheel? Was it being serviced by someone?
I kid, I kid, my eyes widened immediately after seeing both the Silvia and Skyline Super Silhouette cars, how in the heck could I not be excited by looking at Nissan's equivalent of El Dorado's treasures? If there's one thing we car fans should be grateful for, is the effort made by brands such as Nissan to preserve these cars, and let them roar once in a while so that they don't get rusty from lack of use. And after all is said and done, bring them back in, to enjoy retirement in the company of all their brothers... All in all, it was indeed a great "story arc", this Zama Warehouse journey, I can certainly understand your lightheaded feeling after all you had been through inside the building, I really do.
Also, whoever that old man may have been, you should definitely pay him a round of sake one day; normally, they'd be the first people to tell you to step away from the cars, not open the hood of a Calsonic GT500 Skyline R32 to show you the goods...
And a quick question; why was the Clarion car missing a wheel? Was it being serviced by someone?
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I wasn't excited by that last Zama post, sue me and label my person as a "sack of potatoes".
I kid, I kid, my eyes widened immediately after seeing both the Silvia and Skyline Super Silhouette cars, how in the heck could I not be excited by looking at Nissan's equivalent of El Dorado's treasures? If there's one thing we car fans should be grateful for, is the effort made by brands such as Nissan to preserve these cars, and let them roar once in a while so that they don't get rusty from lack of use. And after all is said and done, bring them back in, to enjoy retirement in the company of all their brothers... All in all, it was indeed a great "story arc", this Zama Warehouse journey, I can certainly understand your lightheaded feeling after all you had been through inside the building, I really do.
Also, whoever that old man may have been, you should definitely pay him a round of sake one day; normally, they'd be the first people to tell you to step away from the cars, not open the hood of a Calsonic GT500 Skyline R32 to show you the goods...
And a quick question; why was the Clarion car missing a wheel? Was it being serviced by someone?
You got good eyes. The Calrion R33 GT-R had all its wheels removed, not just one. I presumed they were being reconditioned for an outing later on.
I was happy to see some of the very same cars being used in the Nismo Festival earlier this December, for those of you who missed it, you must check out this highlight reel:
- 9,232
- Valongo
- Hcclipper
I figured that much, but I didn't want to assume incorrectly. So the car was being serviced after all, I suppose that it was going to be used for some sort of exhibition...
Also, that NISMO Festival is another great thing to add to your list if you want to visit the car-centric side of Japan; it's basically the place where most of Zama's inventory goes to stretch their legs alongside Nissan's latest road and racing cars. I bet that the atmosphere there is simply incredible, either as a driver or as a spectator...
- 26,626
- OREGON
- a6m5zero
The lineup of Nissans on this page is mind blowing. Beautiful photos, too. Great presentation! 👍
I grew up in Kanagawa, and in elementary school, all the kids in certain grade(don't remember which lol) were getting to go on a field trip to visit local automobile manufacturers. We lucked out & our visit was to the Nissan Zama Plant. First & last time I got to visit an automobile assembly line.
I grew up in Kanagawa, and in elementary school, all the kids in certain grade(don't remember which lol) were getting to go on a field trip to visit local automobile manufacturers. We lucked out & our visit was to the Nissan Zama Plant. First & last time I got to visit an automobile assembly line.
- 4,485
- SoCal
- GTP_MooCow
Pardon my French but i jizzz at the two upskirt and undressing ...
Thanks so much for sharing your experience and sights...
Your Words, your photographic eyes, your time to report back... All this deserves to be on the front page!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience and sights...
Your Words, your photographic eyes, your time to report back... All this deserves to be on the front page!
McLaren
Premium
- 45,374
- Texas
A thread for the GTPlanet archive. I had read many forum stories over the years about the Nissan collection, but most never provided very many pictures because gaining access was rumored to be difficult many years ago. I know Speedhunters provided a sneak peak into the collection, but this thread far, far surpasses it in quality & information.
I'm kind of curious to ask if you considered visiting the ZAZ Museum, but it used to be infamous for visiting, let alone taking pictures of its collection.
I'm kind of curious to ask if you considered visiting the ZAZ Museum, but it used to be infamous for visiting, let alone taking pictures of its collection.
- 27,203
- United Kingdom
Love this thing. That generation Cherry in coupe form is a real ugly duckling, but almost more appealing because of it, since it couldn't be anything else. Looks incredible in racing trim too - I get the impression it'd be a) a hoot to drive and b) really quite loud.
Cherry Coupe X-1 (1973 : KPE10) by Paul Li, on Flickr
The Cherry debuted as Nissan's first FF car in October 1970, with the same A10 and A12 engines as those in the Sunny. In November of the following year, a coupe was added to the lineup. The top-tier "X-1" model was powered by the SU twin-carb A12 (80ps) engine and attracted many younger drivers. In the 1972 Fuji GC Series Minor Touring class, it performed well alongside the Sunny, which won that year's title.
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I especially liked what they did with the tour bus carrying passengers around the circuit and having the race cars do drive bys as if they're watching a race up close. On a wide track circuit like Fuji it's just perfect. I wish this is more common. Imagine something similar with BTCC at Silverstone or WEC around Le Mans. I'd happily pay for such an experience on a race weekend.
The Cherry is like the chubby sibling of the Lotus Europa, really quirky little FWD car. I heard it's extremely quick.
The lineup of Nissans on this page is mind blowing. Beautiful photos, too. Great presentation! 👍
I grew up in Kanagawa, and in elementary school, all the kids in certain grade(don't remember which lol) were getting to go on a field trip to visit local automobile manufacturers. We lucked out & our visit was to the Nissan Zama Plant. First & last time I got to visit an automobile assembly line.
Hello! Did you visit the collection or just the plant? Never the less, I envy you. All I went to was a lousy Peugeot PSA plant when I was in school. Can't remember what cars they were assembling at the time.
The interior of those two cars really made the whole experience even more miraculous. I looked into the SuperGT car interiors through the tiny little sliding windows and saw a very familiar layout to the scale models I used to build. But the R31 and R32 was really special, everything was so mechanical and engineered, no digital switches or displays, beautiful in a raw kind of way.
Thanks for your appreciation McLaren, I've heard snippets of the Zama plant like many people here over the years, but like you said, it's all too hush hush and never supported with many decent photos. That's why I was so eager to see it with my own eyes. I highly recommend going to this place if you grew up playing video games and are familiar with these cars. The tour booking is not that difficult to be honest, it's in Japanese but I managed to navigate it through the application process with the help of Google Translate.
Here is a link to the tour booking page (In Japanese), feel free to ask me if you want to book a trip but don't know what to click.
I would definitely like to visit the ZAZ museum, but its quite far from Tokyo (it's in Nagoya, which is closer to Osaka than Tokyo). If I ever do visit Nagoya I will definitely make an effort to go visit.
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Again, I'd just like to thank everyone who's spent their precious time over this holiday to check out this thread, especially those who dropped a line or two. I really appreciate it. I felt like I've finally contributed something memorable to this wonderful community, and in doing so I might have just made some new friends @[B]Niku Driver HC[/B]
There are still more photos to come, both cars and scenery in fairly even numbers. I will need to spend a little more time going through them and typing it up. So keep an eye out and feel free to spread this thread to any of your friends who might be into stuff like this.
If you have any questions about my posts, feel free to post here or PM me, and I'll do my best to get back to you.
There are still more photos to come, both cars and scenery in fairly even numbers. I will need to spend a little more time going through them and typing it up. So keep an eye out and feel free to spread this thread to any of your friends who might be into stuff like this.
If you have any questions about my posts, feel free to post here or PM me, and I'll do my best to get back to you.
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- 9,232
- Valongo
- Hcclipper
Yes, the tour bus is a great detail; give fans the ride of their life without risking their actual lives, while driving alongside people such as Kazuyoshi Hoshino who is probably thrashing a Calsonic around the track, or Masahiro Hasemi in a Skyline Super Silhouette... It's the ultimate VIP seat for any racing fan, and since it is done in a bus it's far from being a very limited offer.
And I agree, if other racing categories around the world did this on wide(r) tracks, people would gain even more appreciation for the sport; imagine something like a quick lap around Sebring before the 12hs race, or the BTCC example that you've mentioned (which is an even better example in all honesty), people would jump at that opportunity. More profit for the organizers, more fans for the sport; it's a win-win situation!
My word, I've been mentioned without the use of tags? What is this madness?
Joke aside, I can't thank you enough for such kind words; if anything, we should be the ones to thank you for your effort in sharing everything that you've done throughout your trip to Japan, and giving those who adore Japan as a country a reason (or should I say, "reasons") to adore it even more. It helps a lot when you are willing to answer questions in kind and clarify any doubts about travelling to the country to those who have them. And of course, by doing all this you've introduced yourself to GTP members, and made some friends in the process. I sure won't mind, I am honored to be friends with a knowledgeable person such as yourself...
Looking forward to see what else you will bring, but for now I wish you a Merry Christmas and a great New Year's Eve.
I wonder, will this continue on towards 2016...?
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Yes, the tour bus is a great detail; give fans the ride of their life without risking their actual lives, while driving alongside people such as Kazuyoshi Hoshino who is probably thrashing a Calsonic around the track, or Masahiro Hasemi in a Skyline Super Silhouette... It's the ultimate VIP seat for any racing fan, and since it is done in a bus it's far from being a very limited offer.
And I agree, if other racing categories around the world did this on wide(r) tracks, people would gain even more appreciation for the sport; imagine something like a quick lap around Sebring before the 12hs race, or the BTCC example that you've mentioned (which is an even better example in all honesty), people would jump at that opportunity. More profit for the organizers, more fans for the sport; it's a win-win situation!
My word, I've been mentioned without the use of tags? What is this madness?
Joke aside, I can't thank you enough for such kind words; if anything, we should be the ones to thank you for your effort in sharing everything that you've done throughout your trip to Japan, and giving those who adore Japan as a country a reason (or should I say, "reasons") to adore it even more. It helps a lot when you are willing to answer questions in kind and clarify any doubts about travelling to the country to those who have them. And of course, by doing all this you've introduced yourself to GTP members, and made some friends in the process. I sure won't mind, I am honored to be friends with a knowledgeable person such as yourself...
Looking forward to see what else you will bring, but for now I wish you a Merry Christmas and a great New Year's Eve.
I wonder, will this continue on towards 2016...?
At the snail pace rate that I'm editing photos, it's likely this thread will not end till we're well into January 2016.
However I'm considering creating a new thread, or possibly turning this thread into a continuing thread of my daily / weekly / monthly update of all things cars and photography. I'm not sure if this is considered for tolerable in this sub forum that is specifically for cars.
I might as well create a blog.
- 9,232
- Valongo
- Hcclipper
Well, if anything else fails, you could always put this in the Rumble Strip area, or perhaps in the Art & Photography section if you so prefer. While I don't know whether or not the thread can continue here if it's not solely focused on cars, you may as well continue the current Japan journey here and then move on to a blog and/or a new thread when the need arises.
McLaren
Premium
- 45,374
- Texas
It's been several years since I was in that part of the world, but I will definitely comeback to this thread if the opportunity ever arises again. 👍
On another note, it looks TopGear recently visited the collection. As a heads up though, it stinks in comparison to this thread. No real history of the vehicles & an awful shot of "Godzilla" herself. However, curious if there was anything they saw that you may not have gotten to see.
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/look-inside-nissans-incredible-motorsport-hq#1
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A couple of things about that TopGear article.It's been several years since I was in that part of the world, but I will definitely comeback to this thread if the opportunity ever arises again. 👍
On another note, it looks TopGear recently visited the collection. As a heads up though, it stinks in comparison to this thread. No real history of the vehicles & an awful shot of "Godzilla" herself. However, curious if there was anything they saw that you may not have gotten to see.
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/look-inside-nissans-incredible-motorsport-hq#1
- The warehouse IS open to the public. You just have to book it on an all Japanese site, with the help of Google translate and a bit of trial & error and intelligence.
- The cars have been shifted around a little since I went, although I haven't noticed major changes to the line up, the R32 STP Taisan Skyline GT-R is the only one that wasn't present when I visited. It's also one of the cars I really wanted to see, having been driven by Tsuchiya Keiichi himself and all.
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18 November, day 4 (Tokyo, Kanagawa)
Part 1 - A Slow Morning
After witnessing the triumphant display of cars the days before, I was left quite speechless. As soon as I got back to the hotel, I downloaded the photos to my laptop and began sifting through them to make sure what I was able to capture did some justice to their value. While the equipment didn't fail me, I would definitely have liked to spend at least a few more hours hanging around the tour de force that is the hidden treasure within that warehouse.
The next morning, we slept in a little longer than we'd like to admit, allowing us to catch some much needed rest after such a long day, and to prepare for another even longer one on the following 5th day... a surprise I shall reveal later. Anyway, I had another seminar to attend at the university, so after getting dressed, we strolled to a nearby café for some get-me-up potion.
Some ice cold water while we waited
A cappuccino and my favourite lazy men's brewed coffee
We did some people watching while we lost ourselves in thought about how the trip was turning out, what's to look forward to and the inevitable and dreaded end of it all. A view to falling cherry tree petals would have been an apt metaphor, come to think about it.
Then I went to uni...
After I met up with the girlfriend a couple of hours later, feeling quite starved, we headed for a killer curry place about 20 minutes walk from our hotel. Which turned out to be over half an hour in the cold November rain, much to the lady friend's dismay. The fact that I stopped to gawk at this amazing Mazda didn't help either.
But the real kicker is, by the time we got there, we found out its closed for a few hours in the afternoon. We were really famished at this point, so we took a taxi back to our hotel and popped into a near by restaurant. To our pleasant surprise, the food was GREAT!
A must have for anyone visiting Tokyo and the surrounding area - Japanese style omelette rice. Really hearty dish with beef sauce.
And a personal favourite, thick pork cutlet with rice in curry sauce - a popularised Japanese dish known all around the world.
After our late lunch, we left the restaurant and headed back to the hotel to change out of our damp clothes, and to head out to Tokyo for some shopping and more dramatic sights of robots and Toyotas.
Part 1 - A Slow Morning
After witnessing the triumphant display of cars the days before, I was left quite speechless. As soon as I got back to the hotel, I downloaded the photos to my laptop and began sifting through them to make sure what I was able to capture did some justice to their value. While the equipment didn't fail me, I would definitely have liked to spend at least a few more hours hanging around the tour de force that is the hidden treasure within that warehouse.
The next morning, we slept in a little longer than we'd like to admit, allowing us to catch some much needed rest after such a long day, and to prepare for another even longer one on the following 5th day... a surprise I shall reveal later. Anyway, I had another seminar to attend at the university, so after getting dressed, we strolled to a nearby café for some get-me-up potion.
Some ice cold water while we waited
A cappuccino and my favourite lazy men's brewed coffee
We did some people watching while we lost ourselves in thought about how the trip was turning out, what's to look forward to and the inevitable and dreaded end of it all. A view to falling cherry tree petals would have been an apt metaphor, come to think about it.
Then I went to uni...
After I met up with the girlfriend a couple of hours later, feeling quite starved, we headed for a killer curry place about 20 minutes walk from our hotel. Which turned out to be over half an hour in the cold November rain, much to the lady friend's dismay. The fact that I stopped to gawk at this amazing Mazda didn't help either.
But the real kicker is, by the time we got there, we found out its closed for a few hours in the afternoon. We were really famished at this point, so we took a taxi back to our hotel and popped into a near by restaurant. To our pleasant surprise, the food was GREAT!
A must have for anyone visiting Tokyo and the surrounding area - Japanese style omelette rice. Really hearty dish with beef sauce.
And a personal favourite, thick pork cutlet with rice in curry sauce - a popularised Japanese dish known all around the world.
After our late lunch, we left the restaurant and headed back to the hotel to change out of our damp clothes, and to head out to Tokyo for some shopping and more dramatic sights of robots and Toyotas.
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