The Nissan GT-R is now almost 12 years old and, as we all know, there is no escape from time; it’s no wonder then that the latest 2020MY Nismo model feels its age on boath road and track.

That doesn’t mean the 2020 GT-R Nismo feels slow – on the contrary, it is absolutely ballistic.

Rather, it’s all about how it gets things done. The engine, for instance, requires revs to bring out its full potential and the ride quality is still harsher than most rivals despite the revised suspension settings.

Also Read: 2020 Nissan GT-R Nismo Gets Steep £175k Price Tag In The UK

However, it retains that unique feeling of showing its weight yet remaining incredibly nimble and agile, showcasing the effect of Nissan’s small improvements over the years. Yes, it might be 12 years old, but it’s the best GT-R you can buy straight from the factory.

The twin-turbo, 3.8-liter V8 retains the same horsepower rating as its predecessor, at 592hp (600PS). Nismo GT-Rs come with a set of turbos straight from the GT3 race car, claiming to offer 20 percent faster response, and the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission has also been recalibrated for even faster shifts.

The bodywork features more carbon fiber, with the bumpers and the roof made out of the lightweight material, and small aero tweaks help Godzilla generate more downforce. There’s even carbon brakes now, to help the driver harness all that mass better and more consistently.

Carfection shares its first driving impressions of the new GT-R Nismo both on road and on track, and finds out if the R35 still makes sense in today’s world.