GT-R vs 911 Turbo: AWD Supercar Battle
Nissan GT-R vs Porsche 911 Turbo comparison. Tech-heavy vs refined, which AWD supercar wins?
Detailed Comparison
Supercar Performance, Different Languages
Technology Philosophy
The GT-R embraces complexity: twin-turbo V6, sophisticated all-wheel drive, and computer-controlled everything. Nissan designed the GT-R to deliver supercar performance through electronic optimization. The 911 Turbo represents Porsche's belief that technology should enhance rather than dominate the driving experience.
Power & Drivetrain
Nissan GT-R R35: The VR38DETT 3.8L twin-turbo V6 produces 565 hp in current specification (varying by year). The ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system can send 100% of power to either axle. The dual-clutch transmission provides brutally quick shifts.
Porsche 911 Turbo S 992: The 3.8L flat-six produces 640 hp with larger turbos and revised engine management. Porsche's PTM all-wheel drive is less aggressive than ATTESA but equally effective. The PDK dual-clutch is the industry benchmark.
Driving Character
The GT-R feels like a purpose-built weapon. Acceleration is violent, grip is extraordinary, and laptimes impress regardless of driver skill. The electronics compensate for driver limitations but create a somewhat disconnected feeling at moderate speeds.
The 911 Turbo S feels more organic despite similar technology levels. Porsche's chassis tuning creates clearer communication. The car rewards skilled driving while remaining accessible. At the limit, the 911 Turbo provides more confidence and adjustability.
Daily Usability
The 911 Turbo wins comprehensively as daily transportation. The PDK is smoother in traffic, the ride quality is superior, and the refinement is simply higher. The GT-R's transmission clunks at low speed, and the ride is stiff for street use.
Value Proposition
The GT-R offers supercar performance at a significant discount. Used examples provide extraordinary capability for sports car money. The 911 Turbo S costs substantially more but justifies it with refinement, quality, and resale value.
Vehicle A
Vehicle B
The Verdict
The Verdict
Choose the GT-R if: Pure performance numbers matter most, and you're looking for value in the supercar space. The GT-R's capability-per-dollar is unmatched. It rewards modification and remains competitive despite minimal updates.
Choose the 911 Turbo S if: You want the complete supercar experience—performance, refinement, daily usability, and long-term value. The 911 Turbo S is one of the few cars that can genuinely serve as your only car while delivering exotic performance.
Our Pick: The 911 Turbo S. While the GT-R's performance is spectacular, the 911 Turbo S offers a more complete ownership experience. It's faster in current form, more refined in every measurable way, and provides the intangible quality that justifies its premium.