Good evening to you! Hopefully you had a good day today, and you’re ready to sit down, chill out and do some light reading 👀

This is the 23rd post so far, and still, nothing bad has happened! Similarly to last week, the support has been unreal, and for that I am mega grateful!

Hopefully, you have already read last week’s edition - if you haven’t, click here to take a look. I want to know if you think we’ve improved on last week. I’ll put a poll at the end of this, please do let me know!

SOCIAL MEDIA

Last week, I put it to you guys that filming had started for TikTok, and we had a very successful first week! Thousands of views, hundreds of likes and the positivity everyone has shown me is unreal! To all of you watching, thank you!

Click here to be taken to the Torque & Toast Instagram - here I post (almost|) once a day about… well, CARS!

Click here to be taken to the Torque & Toast TikTok page - have a look through and let me know what you think!

CAR OF THE WEEK 👀

Again, I am amazed at the volume of response to the car of the week, so thank you!

Your opinion matters to me, which is why I am always open to suggestions about how I can improve T&T, but there’s something deeper…

I created this platform so I had somewhere to talk about cars to, and WITH my audience, so I want you to have an input:

This isn’t just about picking favourites. This is about celebrating what makes each of these cars special! Is it the performance? The design? The nostalgia? Or just pure, unfiltered coolness?

Here’s How It Works:

1️⃣ Check out this week’s contenders below.
2️⃣ Click the button to cast your vote.
3️⃣ Sit back and watch the winner be revealed in next week’s newsletter — complete with a deep dive into why it’s such a standout - or why it isn’t… 👀

This week, we will be taking a deep dive into something I have a large place in my heart for:

The Nissan GT-R (R35)

The Ultimate Deep Dive:

The Nissan GT-R R35, introduced in 2007, is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of Japanese engineering prowess and innovation. Known as "Godzilla", the R35 took the automotive world by storm, blending insane performance, cutting-edge technology, and everyday usability.

Performance: Brutal Speed and Precision

At the heart of the R35 is the VR38DETT, a 3.8L twin-turbocharged V6 engine hand-assembled by a team of master craftsmen called Takumi. Each engine bears the signature of its builder, ensuring meticulous attention to detail.

• Early Models (2007-2010):

  • Power: 480hp, 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, top speed of 193 mph.

  • Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (GR6), a first for Nissan, offering lightning-fast shifts.

• Evolutions Over the Years:

  • By 2017, power increased to 565hp in the standard model and 600hp in the NISMO variant.

  • 0-60 times dropped to as low as 2.7 seconds, placing it among the fastest cars in the world.

• Chassis and Handling:

  • The ATTESA E-TS AWD system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels, offering unrivaled grip.

  • Brembo brakes and advanced suspension tuning ensure the R35 is as capable in corners as it is on straights.

  • Lap records: The GT-R’s Nürburgring lap times (7:08.679 for the NISMO) cement its status as a track monster.

Styling: Functional Aggression

The R35 GT-R’s design is bold, muscular, and purposeful, emphasizing function over form. Its aggressive stance and aerodynamics are iconic.

• Exterior:

  • Wide, angular front end with large air intakes for cooling.

  • Sculpted sides and rear fenders contribute to its low drag coefficient (0.26).

  • Quad circular taillights—a nod to its Skyline GT-R predecessors.

• Interior:

  • Driver-focused cockpit with a high-tech feel, thanks to its multi-function display designed by Polyphony Digital (the creators of Gran Turismo).

  • Later models introduced more premium materials, with leather and carbon fiber trims in higher-spec variants.

Pricing: The Supercar Bargain

The R35 GT-R was launched as a disruptor, offering supercar performance at a fraction of the cost.

• Original Pricing (2007):

  • Starting price: ~£56,000 in the UK, making it a relative bargain compared to rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo.

• Current Pricing (2024):

  • New models (e.g., 2024 NISMO): Prices start around £150,000, reflecting advancements and exclusivity.

  • Used market: Early models can be found from £35,000, while low-mileage, well-maintained examples of special editions command premiums of £80,000+.

Modifications: A Tuner’s Dream

The R35’s robust platform and VR38DETT engine make it one of the most tunable cars on the planet.

• Common Mods:

  • Bolt-ons: Upgraded intakes, exhausts, and intercoolers easily push power past 700hp.

  • ECU Tuning: Remaps unlock significant performance gains, often exceeding 800hp with minimal effort.

  • Big Turbo Kits: With larger turbos and supporting mods, the R35 can surpass 1,500hp—some extreme builds have even hit 2,000hp.

• Track Mods:

  • Adjustable coilovers, upgraded brakes, and lightweight wheels enhance handling for serious track use.

• Cosmetic Mods:

  • Widebody kits, carbon fiber aero parts, and custom wheels are popular for those looking to stand out visually.

Other Key Aspects

Reliability

Despite its supercar performance, the R35 GT-R is renowned for its reliability—when maintained properly. The drivetrain and engine are built to handle abuse, but regular servicing (including transmission fluid changes) is crucial.

Everyday Usability

• Unlike many supercars, the GT-R offers a comfortable ride, decent fuel efficiency (for its class), and practical features like a usable boot and back seats. It’s a car you can genuinely drive daily.

Special Editions

• Black Edition: Sportier trim with unique wheels and interior upgrades.

• Track Edition: Focused on lightweight components and improved handling.

• NISMO: The pinnacle of the R35 lineup, featuring enhanced aerodynamics, suspension tuning, and a power boost to 600hp.

Cultural Impact

The R35 GT-R has cemented its place in pop culture:

• Known as "Godzilla," it became a star in gaming (Gran Turismo, Need for Speed) and movies (Fast & Furious series).

• Its track record of outpacing much more expensive rivals earned it legendary status among enthusiasts.

Verdict: A Legend That Redefined the Game

The Nissan GT-R R35 is a car that changed the rules of the supercar segment. It delivers blistering performance, advanced technology, and everyday practicality at a fraction of the cost of its rivals. Whether stock or modified, it’s a car that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.

Would you keep an R35 stock, or go all-in with mods to unlock its full potential? Let me know!

THE HEADLINES: Automotive News

Detroit Hopes Trump's Tariffs Will Jump-Start Its Car Factories

In Detroit, autoworkers are optimistic that former President Trump's proposed tariffs and policy changes could revitalize the local auto industry. Trump aims to halt federal incentives for electric vehicle production and is considering significant tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. While some workers believe these measures could bring jobs back to Michigan, economists and car manufacturers express concerns about potential disruptions to the industry's supply chain and ongoing investments in electric vehicles.

Emergency Braking Will Save Lives. Automakers Want to Charge Extra for It

A new U.S. safety regulation, FMVSS 127, mandates that all cars and light trucks be equipped with advanced automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems by 2029. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates this rule will save at least 362 lives annually. However, the auto industry's leading lobbying group has filed a lawsuit to repeal the regulation, arguing it is nearly impossible to implement and would significantly raise costs. Critics highlight the industry's historical resistance to safety regulations and note that many current models already meet or exceed these standards.

Elon Musk is Putting Britons Off Buying Teslas

A recent survey by Electrifying.com reveals that nearly 60% of Britons find Elon Musk's actions off-putting, influencing their decision against purchasing a Tesla. The study suggests that Musk's polarizing behavior is driving consumers to consider electric cars from Chinese brands instead, with 61% of current electric car owners and 56% of prospective buyers open to purchasing Chinese electric vehicles. Despite Tesla's historical dominance in the UK market and a recent surge in sales, growing competition from Chinese brands like BYD is challenging its position.

Discussion Starter: Torque Talk

What Makes a Car Truly Iconic?

Is it groundbreaking performance, timeless design, or a cult following? Cars like the Toyota Supra MK4, Ferrari F40, and VW Golf GTI are celebrated as icons, but each represents something different—performance, exclusivity, or accessibility.

Does a car need to have a rich racing pedigree, a unique design, or just a lasting impression on car culture to earn the title? Or is it all about how it makes you feel behind the wheel?

What do you think defines an iconic car, and which one stands out the most to you?

Hit ‘reply’ and let me know ⭐️

Cars With A Story: I Want To See Yours

I, like you, am a sucker for a good story. I, like you, have had cars in my time that have either come to me with a story attached, or have allowed me to create my own story.

Either way, I want to see your cars. I want to know what the story is, whether you just saw it, loved it and bought it, or if you got stuck with a lemon. Modified or standard, whatever you have, if it has a story I want to hear it!

Tell me your car’s story, reply to this email, and give me something good to read.

Who knows, you may end up making it into COTD 👀 That’s not one, but TWO!! Gold Stars if you manage to feature 🥳⭐️⭐️

THE CLASSIFIED SPOTLIGHT

This Week: Hot Hatchback Head to Head

Click here to see a wonderful VW Golf GTI - With features like heated leather, DSG gearbox and performance package, you get a true all rounder here. 225bhp, 5 doors and a fast car, if you’re looking for a performance package in a small dress, look no further!

Click here to see the GTI’s direct rival - the beautiful Hyundai (nobody ever said that before) i30N! With similar traits to the Golf, the i30N is a proper bit of competition. LSD, crisp manual gearbox, and extreme handling, this Korean beast gives you driving satisfaction like not many other hatchbacks can!

NEW: TRIPS OF A LIFETIME

New in Edition 3, I’ll keep it short and sweet, but I’ll tell you all about a road trip that I think is cool - one day we’ll be going together so 😁

Stelvio Pass, Italy

Imagine winding through 48 hairpin bends at the top of the Italian Alps. The Stelvio Pass isn’t just a road; it’s a pilgrimage for car enthusiasts. At over 2,700m above sea level, it offers breathtaking views, thrilling corners, and a chance to test your car and your skills.

Late spring/early Autumn are the best times to go (according to the internet), and make sure you start nice and early to avoid traffic!

Thank You For Reading Till The End

This was just Edition 3 of Torque & Toast weekly, in case you forgot, and still I am overwhelmed by the positive support from you so thank you again for that!

The Torque & Toast Weekly will continue to evolve over time, and after each one, I’m going to ask you some questions about what you thought.

I want this to be something genuinely valuable to you, and I want you to come back for more, and see your own suggestions coming to life.

This edition of T&T Weekly has been a little bare, but each week I’m packing more and more in as you have seen!

Questions I Have For You:

As usual, I’ll see you again tomorrow at 6am sharp!

Love,

Angus❤️