Preparing the Nissan GTR R35 de Laboiserie in Stage 2

This Stage 2 will not be using ethanol. No change of injectors or high-pressure pump. Here, we're concentrating on the essentials: flow, engine breathing and appropriate engine management. Here are the details of the installation:

• Installation of a downpipe and a Y-pipe supplied by TNEER, to replace the too narrow elements previously installed
• Installation of a Remus line, which was gathering dust in our Shiftech Lyon showroom
• Replacement of the original airboxes with a large-diameter 76 mm intake, coupled with high-performance filters
• Installation of aviation brake hoses, to improve consistency and pedal feel
• Complete bleeding with Motul RBF 700, a high-temperature fluid designed for intensive use

The objective is clear: to increase power while ensuring consistent, safe handling that's a pleasure to ride, even on the track.

Power is good. Being able to stop it safely is better. On the track, nothing is more worrying than a brake that runs out of steam. The original rubber hoses quickly lose their effectiveness under the effect of heat. They expand, causing a 'chewing-gum effect' on the pedal, and even the sensation of having to pump to regain a modicum of bite.

The reinforced aviation hoses, on the other hand, resist pressure and temperature. Braking remains firm, stable and repeatable. Combined with a high-performance fluid such as Motul RBF 700, the result is a braking system that lasts, capable of keeping up with the pace without flinching. It's a modification that we systematically recommend whenever a vehicle is to be used on a racetrack.

A GTR announced as original, but which produces 538 bhp and 730 Nm? I smell a rat. The original mapping does not allow such figures. The dyno's verdict is clear: this car has already been modified, without Lucien knowing about it. It's likely that the previous owners kept the primary catalytic converters, but removed the secondary ones to improve performance... or simply sound.

At Shiftech, we strongly recommend that our customers restore the original mapping before selling their vehicle. This service is included free of charge for 5 years in all our centres. This avoids unpleasant surprises for both buyer and seller.

Morgan takes charge. And the good news is that nothing went wrong. No broken screws, no seized nuts. The general condition of the car confirms its low mileage. The original air filters were replaced with sport intakes: a mechanical gain, but also a much more engaging intake sound. It's a win-win situation.

For this type of configuration, we're aiming for a result of around 620 bhp. Without ethanol, with a well-calibrated line and intakes, this is a realistic target.

The moment of truth: the car is reprogrammed, strapped to the bench. The GTR's distinctive metallic noise is there, and so are the flames.

Result: 642 bhp, 900 Nm. Quite an improvement, especially if you keep the standard fuel. The in-house mapping is perfectly adapted to the equipment installed.

Bad luck, it's raining. But the GTR's all-wheel drive system put on a good show. The grip is there, the throttle response is crisp and the car is sound. Despite the conditions, the performance is there. The GTR deserves its Godzilla nickname.

And Lucien? All he has to do is drive. But knowing Lucien, it's a safe bet that he'll soon be back with a full load of dirt...