
I FOUND THE R35 GTR REPLACEMENT AND ITS EPIC!
Audio Summary
AI Summary
The speaker introduces the R35 GTR as widely considered the "ugliest car ever built," citing a survey where 97.8% agreed. However, an Italian company redesigned it, transforming it into a "beautiful" vehicle. The speaker found this redesigned car in Japan and notes that Italians are renowned for their design, as seen in Ferrari and Lamborghini. The only downside to this redesigned R35 is its shocking price.
The video takes place at Mr. Hero's car studio in Osaka, a comprehensive facility for car enthusiasts. The speaker initially encountered the Italian-designed GTR at Mr. Hero's booth at the Osaka Auto show, surrounded by Italian-looking individuals. Behind that, he discovered other iconic cars like an 86 and a Veilside RX7. He met the owners, who also run a rental business in Osaka, and they invited him to visit their facility. They have a stringent qualification process for renters to ensure respect for the cars and driving competence.
The speaker highlights the rising prices of S2000s, noting that if he were to buy a Honda, it would be an S2000. He comments on the "nuts" prices, even for high-mileage, somewhat damaged cars.
Mr. Hero, the owner, had an impressive booth at Osaka Auto. One side featured the GTR, while the other displayed a Veilside RX7 and two Fujiwara Tofu Shop AE86s, famous from "Initial D." The speaker mentions owning one of these AE86s, a 20-valve 4AG, which he and his kids built. He jokes about having previously done donuts in Mr. Hero's car before it was his. The speaker notes that TV crews were filming Mr. Hero's establishment, underscoring its significance in the car community.
They plan to take one of the AE86s, known as "Hachi Roku" (eight-six in Japanese), for a drive before sunset. The AE86 is legendary from "Initial D," known for its high-winding engine. Mr. Hero offered them a drive. The car has a 4A engine with 20 valves (five per cylinder), similar to the "Initial D" setup, which is said to wind up to 11,000 RPMs. The speaker's own car achieved 10,300 RPMs on the dyno. The 4A engine is original to the car, and while the five-valve head might not be original, it's desirable for high performance. The car also features the signature of the actor who played Takumi, the driver of the AE86 in "Initial D." This car, along with the RX7 FC, holds significant iconic status, especially among younger fans of "Initial D."
The speaker then focuses on the redesigned GTR, which he believes is called the GTR50. He describes it as a "chop top" with a dramatically redesigned rear, including unique taillights. He expresses amazement at how the Italian designers, specifically Italdesign, made the R35 look good. Only 19 of these cars were made globally, with just three in Japan. He admires the "chop top" design and the two-tone paint with matte gold and gloss gray, comparing the rear design, particularly the raised portions and LED taillights, to a Bugatti Chiron. He notes the emphasized NACA ducts on the hood, painted to match the car's theme, functioning hood pins, and carbon fiber wheels. The fitment of the aftermarket kit is described as OE level.
The speaker expresses concern about fitting into the car due to his height, but plans to get in for the experience, likely filming while someone else drives. He reiterates the iconic status of the AE86, a former tofu delivery car that became famous for drifting in the mountains at night. He reflects on how what was once a cheap car now commands prices of $60,000-$70,000. He recounts a story Mr. Hero shared about a person breaking down in tears upon seeing the AE86, as it reminded them of their deceased father who owned a similar car, highlighting the emotional significance of the vehicle.
The group embarks on a drive in the AE86, with the speaker praising its roominess and Steve as his co-pilot. They enjoy the "golden shower hour" as the sun sets, experiencing Japanese car culture. The speaker admits he focuses more on vlogging than driving, while Steve is a focused driver. He comments on the "chop top" roofline of the GTR50 and speculates on its "crazy" price, but admits he would "rock that 100%." He wonders if Steve, due to his height, would fit in the GTR50.
Inside the AE86, he notes the old-school controls and the tachometer going up to 11,000 RPMs. He considers this experience a "core memory" and encourages viewers to save and share the video, acknowledging the effort of his production team. He jokingly mentions getting "a little rowdy" with the AE86 and possibly needing an exhaust. He contrasts the more chaotic driving style of some with the respect for the borrowed vehicle, stating Steve won't do donuts despite wanting to, given how easily the car drifts. He laments the high prices of fun cars, making them inaccessible to many. He appreciates the distinct sound of the AE86's throttle bodies.
Returning to the GTR50, he reiterates the Bugatti Chiron influence in its design, color, and wing. He suggests a commonality in design and high-end products between Japan and Italy, and also Germany and Japan, particularly in attention to detail. He hopes Nissan doesn't make the new R35 all-electric, suggesting a hybrid if necessary.
He spots an iconic Subaru with blue paint and gold wheels, reminiscent of Subaru's rally heritage. He expresses his dislike for RX7s, attributing it to his preference for Hondas, which Steve jokes is "too young."
The group then explores the other amenities at Mr. Hero's studio, including car simulators. The speaker recounts a previous nauseating experience with a simulator, so he lets Steve try it. The studio also features original merchandise, a cafe that transforms into a bar at night, serving Japanese pancakes and allowing cigars and alcohol.
Steve attempts a simulator race on Laguna Seca in an F1 car, wearing racing gloves for better grip. The speaker jokes about kicking Steve's "ass" on the simulator. After the race, Steve is disqualified, but the speaker claims victory.
They are then offered car-themed drinks, including an RX7 Mango and a GTR coffee. The studio also boasts an indoor drift track with drift carts, which the speaker finds "wild" and unique to Japan. He tries a cart, noting it's for "babies" and designed with bolts to limit throttle. He finds the drift cart more fun than the simulator, despite Steve having "kicked his ass" on the simulator.
He then highlights an NSX on display, noting its connection to Ayrton Senna, whose race suit is also present. He reflects on his AE86 driving experience, emphasizing its fun, iconic nature, and the positive reactions from onlookers. He mentions his own AE86 has a similar livery but with his brand name. He points out the correct RS Watanabe wheels on Mr. Hero's AE86, contrasting them with his Work Wheels, which were sponsored.
He provides a quick tour of other cars available for rent: a Veilside RX7, a Top Secret R34 (associated with "Smokey Nagata"), a Veilside R35, the "Tokyo Drift" 370Z (actually a 400Z Nismo), a 180SX, a Civic, a Subaru, another RX7, another AE86, and his "absolute love," an automatic NSX. He recommends the automatic NSX for renters not used to right-hand drive or manuals, while Steve argues for learning manual and driving the AE86. He notes that manual NSX prices are still manageable ($70,000-$80,000 USD), unlike R34s. He concludes that every car in the studio is iconic and that the owner is "super nice."
The video ends with a glimpse of another iconic car backing in, referencing Initial D's setting in Akina, Gunma. The speaker reflects on Japan's deep-rooted car culture, observed at a Sunday afternoon car meet, where it's a family affair, indicating it's "their life," not just a hobby.