It's no secret that the RB26DETT engine found in the GT-R has unlimited potential. But this isn't a GT-R, and its heart isn't an RB26DETT. The GT-S comes from Nissan with the RB25DET engine, but it didn't get much of a chance to remain stock once it got into the hands of Blitz. The factory turbo system was heaved and replaced with a Blitz Pro Kit, which consists of a K5-660R snail mated to a stainless steel exhaust manifold. All that extra boost forced through the Blitz LM intercooler called for more fuel, and that call was answered by a Blitz fuel pump and Nismo regulator. With a Blitz E56 wastegate, SBC i-D boost controller, and Access ECU overseeing the whole operation, the power and torque ratings come in at 470ps @ 6,800rpm and 52kg/m @ 4,800rpm. Power like that generates quite a bit of heat, but a Yashio Factory Super Light R radiator does its part to cool things down at a very rapid pace. The drivetrain faces a lot of abuse when it comes to drifting. It's for this reason that the R34 was outfitted with an OS Giken tranny and Blitz Active clutch.
Setting up the suspension for a drift car is totally different than a drag or road race car. Not only do you need the car to handle well, but it's gotta be able to break the tires loose on demand. What a bitch. In this case, the R34 is set up with bushings and sway bars from Nismo, a Nismo SSS limited-slip differential, and a Blitz Sachs damper kit. That's enough to allow the lengthy four-door to hug the tight corners, but what about getting into some serious sliding action? We're told by Abe-san, Blitz's head mechanic, that the tire compound of the Dunlop FM901 matched with the mammoth size of the 18-inch Blitz Technospeed Z2 wheels are the perfect combination for its drift machine. You'll hear no argument from us, especially after you see the never-ending trail of smoke left on the track (and opponents' faces).
The interior of the R34 was left pretty simple. You won't find a fancy neon-colored rollbar with 10 cupholders, a plasma screen TV, or ear-blowing subs in here. Look inside, and you'll see a cluster of Blitz DC gauges, a GT-1 racing seat, and a MOMO steering wheel.
The DriverThere's not much that we can say about Ken "Nomuken" Nomura, owner of Uras Monkey Magic, mainly because he refuses to talk to us. We're told that Nomuken doesn't take kindly to American journalists. He appeals to the spectators by doing funny poses, drawing monkey pictures with his signature, and being obnoxiously loud. His routines remind me of nothing more than a really bad I Love Lucy episode with old burlesque acts. But what he lacks in cordiality and comicality, he makes up for with remarkable driving talent. Without a doubt, Nomuken's skills on the track deserve much more than applause. He makes every turn look ridiculously smooth and a lot easier than it really is. If any of you have tried drifting, you'll know that it's not exactly as simple as stomping down the gas pedal and spinning the steering wheel. Rarely will you see him make a mistake in the hefty R34, which is a lot to say for any professional driver.