Ferrari 458 Italia Outpaces Nissan GT-R in Wet Drag Races
A series of rolling drag races saw the Ferrari 458 Italia overcome the Nissan GT-R’s all-wheel drive launches, highlighting the Italian’s power advantage even in challenging conditions.
A set of rolling drag races between the Ferrari 458 Italia and Nissan GT-R has provided a clear demonstration of how outright power and traction interact on a wet track. The event, organised by M5boarddotcom and filmed in slippery conditions, saw the two supercars line up for four separate runs.
Traction versus power: the launch and the chase
The Nissan GT-R’s all-wheel drive system provided a clear advantage off the line, especially on the damp surface. With 530 hp from its uprated twin-turbo V6 and a dual-clutch transmission, the 2013 GT-R is capable of reaching 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. This rapid acceleration was immediately apparent at the start of each run, as the GT-R surged ahead while the Ferrari’s rear-driven layout struggled for grip.
However, as the cars gathered speed and the surface became less of a limiting factor, the Ferrari 458 Italia’s 562 hp naturally aspirated V8 and lighter weight began to show their advantage. The Italian supercar reeled in the Nissan each time, overtaking before the finish and securing a win in every race. Both cars feature dual-clutch gearboxes and are capable of sub-12-second quarter-mile times, but the Ferrari’s superior power-to-weight ratio ultimately proved decisive once traction was less of an issue.
Technical comparison: Ferrari 458 Italia and Nissan GT-R
| Specification | Ferrari 458 Italia | Nissan GT-R (2013) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.5-litre V8, naturally aspirated | 3.8-litre V6, twin-turbo |
| Power | 562 hp | 530 hp |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| 0-100 km/h | 3.4 seconds (claimed) | 2.8 seconds (claimed) |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch | 6-speed dual-clutch |
Beyond the drag strip: GT-R’s police role in Abu Dhabi
The Nissan GT-R’s reputation for all-weather performance has found it a place in some unexpected fleets. Abu Dhabi police have used the GT-R in promotional videos, showcasing its ability to pursue high-end supercars such as the Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C. While these videos are staged, they highlight the GT-R’s blend of acceleration, grip and usability, which have made it a favourite in both enthusiast and official circles.
What the results mean for buyers and enthusiasts
For those considering either car, the drag race outcomes reinforce established reputations. The GT-R’s all-wheel drive system delivers reliable launches in poor conditions, making it a formidable point-to-point machine regardless of the weather. The Ferrari 458 Italia, meanwhile, rewards with greater power and a lighter chassis, excelling as speeds rise and conditions improve. Both remain icons of their era for different reasons.
