The Ten Fastest Nissan Models: Iconic and Blisteringly Quick Performance Cars

Nissan has built some of the most exciting performance cars in automotive history. Among the many production models released by Nissan, ten stand out as the fastest ever made, boasting the highest top speeds in the brand’s history.

Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Nür (2002) — 156 mph

This version of the Skyline GT-R became a true icon, earning respect both on public roads and in motorsports. The GT-R represented a new level of performance and was even adopted by police departments in some countries as a high-speed patrol car.

In 2002, Nissan released the Nür edition—named after the legendary Nürburgring circuit, where Nissan benchmarked its cars against Porsche and Chevrolet for years. Powered by a 276-horsepower engine, the car reached a top speed of 156 mph and accelerated from 0–62 mph in 5.4 seconds.

Nissan Z NISMO (2024) — 165 mph

The 2024 Z NISMO coupe reaches a top speed of 165 mph. Its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 produces 420 horsepower. The latest in the Z lineup, it features aggressive aerodynamic bodywork, a sport-tuned suspension, track-focused tires, and upgraded high-performance brakes.

Nissan GT-R (2009) — 193 mph

Produced from 2007 through 2025, the GT-R was Nissan’s bold attempt to create one of the world’s best sports cars—a process that took seven years of development and testing. It introduced advanced aerodynamics, an active suspension system, and a rear-mounted transaxle as part of its sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup.

The 2009 model featured a 479-horsepower engine, a top speed of 193 mph, and a 0–60 mph time of about 3.5 seconds.

Nissan GT-R NISMO (2023) — 196 mph

The final evolution of the GT-R NISMO lineup debuted in 2023. This two-door, four-seat performance coupe hit a top speed of 196 mph and sprinted from 0–60 mph in just 2.6 seconds. Power came from a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 592 horsepower to all four wheels.

Nissan GT-R (2023) — 196 mph

Released in limited numbers, the 2023 GT-R closely resembled its predecessor. Its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 produced 557 horsepower, enabling a 196 mph top speed and a 0–60 mph time of approximately 2.8 seconds.

Updates included redesigned bumpers, a revised front grille, a new rear wing, and improved aerodynamics for greater downforce.

Nissan GT-R NISMO (2020) — 196 mph

This exclusive GT-R NISMO variant was released in 2020, primarily for Middle Eastern markets. Just 43 units were sold. Buyers could choose from 12 interior color combinations, along with premium carpeting and leather headliners. The 592-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 enabled a 196 mph top speed and a 0–60 mph time of 2.6 seconds.

Nissan GT-R (2016) — 196 mph

The 2016 update brought significant improvements. A revised cooling system boosted output to 570 horsepower, while a titanium exhaust reduced weight. The refreshed GT-R reached 196 mph and accelerated to 60 mph in about 2.8 seconds.

Nissan Juke-R 2.0 (2015) — 200 mph

The humble Nissan Juke subcompact crossover, originally launched in 2010, was transformed with the GT-R’s 3.8-liter VR engine producing 545 horsepower. Initially planned as a limited run of up to 23 units, only five were built—and just three were sold. The project was developed by Nissan engineers in their spare time, with assembly handled by a tuning company.

The upgraded Juke-R 2.0 version delivered 600 horsepower and achieved a top speed of 200 mph, placing it among the fastest Nissans ever built.

Nissan GT-R Nismo Special Edition (2024) — 200 mph

The Special Edition update pushes the GT-R NISMO to extreme levels. Extensive use of carbon fiber, enhanced aerodynamics, and engine refinements define this limited-production model. Available only in Japan via lottery, it remains one of the rarest modern GT-R variants.

With 600 horsepower on tap, the “Godzilla” is equally capable on the racetrack or cruising through city streets. Top speed is rated at 200 mph.

Nissan R390 GT1 (1997) — 220 mph

Built primarily for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this model exists as one road-going example and eight race cars. Its 3.5-liter V8 engine produced 558 horsepower, enabling a staggering 220 mph top speed—making it the fastest Nissan ever created.

From legendary GT-R variants to wild engineering experiments like the Juke-R, Nissan’s performance history is filled with machines that pushed the limits of speed and technology.