You might wonder why anyone would replace the tuning-friendly twin-turbo V6 of the Nissan GT-R with a different engine. The issue with the GT-R’s popularity is that standing out is tough for enthusiasts. Swapping a Viper V10 into a Nissan GT-R is an innovative way to achieve uniqueness.
As far as I know, this is the first Viper V10 in an R35 GT-R. An R34 Skyline in Denmark, though not a GT-R, already features this American engine for drifting.
The Viper V10-swapped R35 Nissan GT-R is an Australian project
The talented team at MDS Fab in Brisbane, Australia, is responsible for this incredible swap. HardTuned, an Australian automotive clothing company, commissioned this project to make a unique promotional vehicle.
Interestingly, this isn’t just a show car. HardTuned is transforming the Viper V10-swapped GT-R into a drift car. The large cutout in the hood, which reveals the engine, adds to its unique appearance, reminiscent of Mica Dori’s Mercedes-Benz 190E build.
In March 2024, the project was still underway when HardTuned showcased it at Australia’s Rockynats 04 car and bike festival. At that point, the 8.0L V10 engine, likely from a Gen 2 Viper, was installed but still required some finishing touches. The engine featured a twin-turbo setup with hardware from Pulsar Turbo Systems and a Link ECU. For added stability, the turbos were solidly mounted to the body, with flex joints used in the manifolds.
Given this is a drift car, it will likely produce around 1,000 hp. Though the Viper V10 can exceed this, HardTuned mentioned it won’t aim for 2,000 hp. Speaking of unique builds, you might find a Hellcat-swapped Viper interesting.
The drift setup converts the Viper V10 GT-R from AWD to RWD. The exact six-speed transmission isn’t specified, but it might be a modified Tremec T56 manual with an upgraded clutch for handling the extra power and torque.
The car features 20-inch forged three-piece wheels. Additionally, a Liberty Walk R35 Type 2 widebody kit is installed, with side exhausts positioned behind the front wheels. Once this beast hits the track, expect those exhaust tips to shoot flames like a dragon.