Car Video Reviews / Nissan GT-R (R35)
Nissan R35 GT-R Review: Six Months With a Japanese Import
By Stuart Ellis · 5 June 2025 · 21 min video
I imported a 2008 R35 GT-R Black Edition from a Tokyo auction. Here's the full import cost breakdown, six months of ownership, and whether I paid too much.
The verdict
Would I do it again? Without a doubt. Just under A$100,000 landed and complied is expensive, but that's the price of a stock, low-kilometre, pristine car, and it's still great value next to anything else at the money. With hindsight I might buy a rougher car and spend the difference on bolt-ons and a tune. Keep A$10,000–15,000 aside in case the gearbox needs attention.
Key facts
- Car
- 2008 Black Edition, auction grade 4.5B, 30,000km
- Landed and complied
- A$99,945 (before stamp duty, rego and insurance)
- Engine
- 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6
- Power / torque
- 353kW / 588Nm
- 0–100km/h
- About 3.5 seconds
- Weight
- 1,710kg
What I liked
- Monstrous pace above 3,000rpm
- Balanced and confidence-inspiring
- Big Brembo brakes
- Hydraulic steering with plenty of feel
What I didn't
- Clunky low-speed shifts (a Cobb transmission map drastically improved them)
- Stock stereo is woeful without the Bose
- Rear seats only good for bags
- The GR6 gearbox's reliability history
FAQ
How much does it cost to import an R35 GT-R?
Mine cost A$99,945 landed and complied, including an A$80,000 purchase price, shipping, insurance, GST, luxury car tax, compliance and new tyres.
Is the R35 GT-R gearbox reliable?
The early GR6 gearbox was fragile under hard use, especially with launch control. Later fixes and aftermarket parts help. Keep an emergency fund.
How long does importing from Japan take?
About three months from auction win to delivery in Brisbane.
Should I buy a JDM or Australian-delivered R35?
Australian cars arrived from 2009. A 2007–08 JDM import gets you an early, original car, but use a trusted inspector in Japan.
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