Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign Miniature 1:18: Maximum exclusivity of the Japanese Godzilla
The Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign is not just a supercar—it is a masterpiece of design and engineering that combines the best of Japanese tradition with Italian style. Created in 2018 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Nissan GT-R and also the 50th anniversary of Italdesign, the model is considered the rarest and most exclusive version in the history of the legendary Godzilla. With only 50 units produced, over 720 hp, and a price tag exceeding US$1 million, the GT-R50 is a true collectible, aimed at a select audience passionate about sports cars and rare supercars.
CARS & CLASSIC
Driven Vault
9/10/20253 min read


History and Origin of the Model
The story of the GT-R50 begins in 2018, when Nissan teamed up with the Italian company Italdesign, famous for creating some of the most iconic cars in history, such as the DeLorean DMC-12 and the Maserati MC12.
The goal was to create a car that paid homage to the GT-R's heritage while also projecting its identity into the future. Thus was born the GT-R50, based on the GT-R Nismo R35, but with a redesigned body, an all-new interior, and even more power.
Produced in an ultra-limited series of just 50 units, the model was sold to order, reinforcing its hyper-collectible status.
Cultural Impact and Exclusivity
The GT-R50 by Italdesign quickly became one of the most exclusive Japanese cars in history.
Ultra-limited production: with only 50 units, it is rarer than many Ferraris and Lamborghinis.
Cultural fusion: combines Japanese performance tradition (Nissan and Nismo) with prestigious Italian design (Italdesign).
Collector's car: sought after by millionaires and collectors who see the model as a unique piece of historical value.
Automotive culture: despite not appearing in films like Fast & Furious, the car is revered in JDM and global supercar communities.
This model reinforces the GT-R's legendary status, demonstrating that even after 50 years, the "Godzilla" continues to evolve.
Rare Curiosities
Custom-made exclusivity: each of the 50 owners was able to customize colors and finishes, making each GT-R50 unique.
More expensive than many hypercars: at over US$1 million, it cost twice as much as a traditional GT-R Nismo.
Special prototype: the first prototype was presented in gray and gold, generating intense debate about its style.
Made in Italy: Unlike conventional GT-Rs, which are manufactured in Japan, the GT-R50 was assembled by Italdesign in Turin.
A double tribute: in addition to the GT-R's 50th anniversary, it also celebrates the half-century of Italdesign, founded in 1968.
Design and Engineering
The design of the Nissan GT-R50 is one of the most striking aspects of the project. Unlike simple special editions, it was practically rebuilt by Italdesign.
Design Highlights:
Futuristic front end: ultra-thin LED headlights and aggressive air intakes.
Redesigned hood: lower and longer, reinforcing the sporty stance.
Radical rear end: suspended three-dimensional circular taillights, inspired by the classic GT-R.
Active rear spoiler: adjustable to increase downforce at high speeds.
Special paint job: exclusive combinations of black, gray, gold, and other custom options.
Luxurious interior: blend of carbon fiber, Alcantara, and Italian leather, with handcrafted details.
The result is a car that blends the brutal DNA of the GT-R with the sophistication of European design.
Technical Specifications
Based on the GT-R Nismo R35, the GT-R50 has received even more extreme tuning:
Engine: 3.8L twin-turbo V6 (VR38DETT) tuned by Nismo
Power: 720 hp
Torque: 780 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch transmission
All-wheel drive (AWD)
0–100 km/h acceleration: ~2.9 seconds
Top speed: ~315 km/h
Production: only 50 units
Launch price: US$1.1 million
Current value: at auction, it can exceed US$2 million, depending on the configuration


Nissan GT-R50
The Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign is one of the most exclusive cars ever made by the Japanese brand. It combines brutal 720 hp of power, refined European design, and a very limited production run of just 50 units.
More than just a car, the GT-R50 is a historic landmark, demonstrating how much the legendary "Godzilla" has evolved over its five decades of existence. For collectors, it represents the perfect balance of Japanese strength and Italian artistry.


