Originality is the GT-R's Greatest Appeal

—Today, we'd like to reflect on 2008 and look ahead to 2009, discussing cars and the society surrounding them. First, what models left a lasting impression on you in 2008?

WatanabeWhenever I'm asked that question, I answer the (Nissan) GT-R. It was a car that just managed to slip in before this economic climate took hold, and frankly, as a Japanese person, I'm delighted that Nissan has produced a model that surpasses the speed of the Porsche 911 Turbo.

OgawaThe GT-R debuted in December 2007, and the Lehman Shock hit around September 2008, drastically changing the societal landscape. Yet, the GT-R hasn't become outdated. The world is changing at an incredible pace, but the GT-R will endure.

OgawaHigh originality is a fundamental value for everyone when buying a car in today's climate.

WatanabeFurthermore, 'efficiency' is a keyword that automotive manufacturers have begun to emphasize in recent years. While it means being efficient, I think the GT-R scores quite well. For instance, consider its V6 twin-turbo engine producing 480ps; when you calculate its fuel economy and CO2 emissions, its thermal efficiency isn't bad at all.

—In a sense, it's eco-friendly?

OgawaActually, the GT-R was also a memorable car for me. I even wish I could own one.

—What draws you to it?

WatanabePorsche has also pursued higher efficiency with its evolution, such as direct injection for the flat-six engine and the adoption of the PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. In terms of efficiency, it's probably the world's most outstanding sports car right now.

TakiWith direct injection, power has increased by up to 8.5% while fuel economy has improved by 11.2%, and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 13.6%.

WatanabeIn terms of sports cars that debuted in 2008, the Fairlady Z was excellent. Personally, I actually prefer the Z over the GT-R, both as a concept and to drive.

The SL65 AMG Black Series: A Full-Course French Meal

—Taki, you had many opportunities to drive ultra-luxury cars, including Bentleys...

TakiThe 2009 model of the Bentley Flying Spur was excellent. It felt incredibly refined. With the debut of the 'Speed' performance version, similar to the coupe GT, the suspension could be softened by about 30%, resulting in a supple and exceptionally pleasant ride.

WatanabeThe 'Speed' is also great, in both the GT and Flying Spur models. The car's movements feel more composed, and the impression of the heavy upper body shifting has disappeared.

OgawaThe ride quality of a bygone era still remains.

WatanabeIt's interesting how BMW, known for its sharp handling, has refined that distinctive Rolls-Royce taste. It shows respect for the brand's heritage.

—It's proof that BMW, which now owns Rolls-Royce, pays homage to its legacy.

OgawaThey must have considered the flavor. Car manufacturers put immense effort into conceiving and expressing the unique character of each brand.

—Specifically?

WatanabeIt has 670ps of power and 1000Nm of torque...

TakiSo, the ride is stiff?

WatanabeIt's firm, as expected. Unlike other Mercedes models with air suspension, it uses authentic mechanical suspension.

—Is it a car designed with circuit use in mind?

WatanabeAMG cars aren't that extreme. AMG has the concept of 'high-performance cars you can use every day,' right? In any case, with so many bland cars likely to appear soon, like hospital food, this was a car that let me savor a full-course French meal right before that. It was like saying, 'Now I can go to the hospital without any regrets' (laughs).

—This year also saw the debut of other supercars like the Ferrari 430 Scuderia and Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. Does this car stand out even among them?

WatanabeIt's a limited edition, after all, and its wonderful absurdity was truly remarkable.

The Smart MHD: Like a Ferris Wheel

—Listening to our conversation so far, it seems that despite the economic downturn and environmental concerns, 2008 was a year where high-performance, high-priced cars were quite vibrant.

WatanabeWell, on the other hand, with cars like the Smart MHD, which added an idling stop function, or the Toyota iQ, I felt a return to simpler approaches.

TakiI felt the same way when I drove the Smart MHD. In the 100-plus-year history of automobiles, there are times when we return to the basics. For example, even though multi-cylinder engines are mainstream in motorcycles today, single-cylinder engines still exist. I feel cars and motorcycles are both heading back in that direction.

OgawaOne reason is that cars have become so large and complex, placing an excessive burden on the environment, leading to the idea of stepping back a bit.

WatanabeToyota initially used the term 'premium compact' for the iQ's concept, but a Toyota representative told me, 'We decided not to use the word premium' (laughs). They probably thought 'premium' might evoke images of the ride comfort and luxury of higher-class models like the Crown. However, I think they should have asserted that the iQ's premium quality isn't about hardware but about a state of mind. Living minimally and having extra money to spend is the premium of the future.

—The iQ's innovative concept has generated buzz, but what about its hardware?

WatanabeWhat surprised me was how much more enjoyable it became the more I drove it. Its handling is nimble. With its extremely short wheelbase and exceptionally wide track, dimensions that are unusual for a car, its drivability must be special. There's something captivating about it.

TakiIs that wide track a conscious effort to compete with Kei cars?

WatanabeI suspect the European market was in mind from the start. It's the result of targeting a market slightly above the Smart. Perhaps the idea was to create a package that could seat four adults, or to achieve stability through a wider track.

TakiSo, it can handle toll roads and autostradas?

—It seems it will be sold in America too, under the Scion brand targeting younger demographics.

OgawaCars like that would be better if they were a bit more mature. At least offering a specification for adults. Something that would make someone consider switching from a BMW, for example.

WatanabeOverall, the construction itself doesn't convey the same sense of compactness as the Smart.

OgawaYes. In that sense, it's a maturely finished product. The suspension is supple, too. Although it only has a 5-speed transmission, the seating position, with your legs stretched out forward, makes it fun.

WatanabeIn the Japanese market, both domestic and imported cars with three-pedal manuals are carefully selected for their catalogs, so there are surprisingly many excellent options.

TakiI see. Regarding eco-friendly topics, when I drove the Smart MHD and the engine stopped at a red light, I opened the window, and the wind blew through. In that moment, it wasn't really a car anymore. It was on the road, but somehow separate. It was a very fresh experience.

—Is that similar to the Prius, which also has an idling stop function?

TakiThe Prius felt more enclosed. The Smart, however, gave a sense of openness, like riding a Ferris wheel. And now that I live in Hayama, surrounded by nature, I feel that people's lives should be a bit simpler.

When you have children, you naturally start thinking about the world they will inherit. As we discussed earlier, perhaps cars should also return to a simpler direction. Accepting a certain level of inconvenience. For example, like the old Honda Vamos.

It lacks air conditioning, but in return, it's nimble and easy to use for short trips. I think there should be such options for eco-friendly transportation. In Asia, there are also three-wheeled taxis like the tuk-tuk.
The Smart MHD was the closest to that value system.

—While the Bentley's luxury is important, perhaps...

TakiI believe having choices is ultimately better. Isn't that what eco-friendliness is about? Having something incredibly luxurious, and also something incredibly low-cost and low-impact. I hope for a world like that.

—So, for someone with some financial means, who enjoys cars but is also concerned about the environment, what car would you recommend?

WatanabeThey would likely choose something like the Smart, wouldn't they?

TakiWhy not offset their carbon footprint within their lifestyle? For example, owning a Continental GT Speed and a Smart MHD.

OgawaWith sound reasoning, one could choose an Aston Martin or a Prius. Therefore, from an OPENERS perspective, 2008 was a year when people began to think more deeply before buying cars. It was a test of one's own stance, one's view on automobiles.

TakiIndeed, it was a year where something stood in the way before personal preference. Whatever the car, you have to justify your purchase with logic.

OgawaPerhaps a logic was needed for buying an Aston Martin or a Bentley.