BMW
M6
Nissan
GT-R
BMW M6 vs Nissan GT-R: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Nissan GT-R comes out ahead of the BMW M6 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
M6
Overall
Sentiment is deeply polarized and highly conditional. The vehicle is universally revered for its high-revving 5.0L V10 (S85) engine, described as an "insanely fast" and "brilliant" powerplant above 5,000 RPM, offering a unique and thrilling driving experience that creates significant owner pride and excitement. However, this is heavily counterbalanced by very frequent and severe criticism regarding legendary reliability concerns and extreme ownership costs.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim (e.g., Competition Package) as the "best." The primary differentiator discussed is transmission choice. The 6-speed manual (6MT) is highly prized for its rarity, driver engagement, and because it avoids the notorious reliability issues of the SMG III automated manual transmission.
Known issues
- ⚠Rod bearing failures in the S85 V10 engine: considered a critical, well-documented flaw requiring preventative replacement; catastrophic engine failure risk. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠SMG III transmission reliability: prone to major failures, expensive repairs, and criticized for poor drivability in daily use. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Throttle actuator failures: another common and expensive fault with the S85 engine. Frequency: very frequent.
GT-R
Overall
The sentiment from the community is one of high performance respect with significant concerns regarding cost and technological evolution. The R35 GT-R is consistently praised for its exceptional track performance, particularly its stability at high speeds and its ability to compete with or outperform vehicles costing significantly more, such as the Bugatti Veyron on circuits like the Nürburgring. It is recognized as a technological marvel upon its release, offering supercar-level acceleration and handling at a comparatively accessible price point.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to identify a consensus "best" model year or trim (e.g., NISMO vs. Premium).
Known issues
- ⚠High maintenance and repair costs: frequently cited as a major ownership drawback, with costs described as "a ton." Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Dated technology: the all-wheel-drive system is noted as being unable to send more than 50% power to the front or split torque front-to-rear, and the transmission shifts slower than modern counterparts, making the platform less competitive…
The verdict
The Nissan GT-R is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the BMW M6, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Nissan GT-R are a dealbreaker, the BMW M6 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW M6 or the Nissan GT-R?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Nissan GT-R than the BMW M6. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the BMW M6 or the Nissan GT-R?
The BMW M6 seats more passengers than the Nissan GT-R on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the BMW M6 is classed as a Sedan, the Nissan GT-R as a Coupe.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW M6 or the Nissan GT-R?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW M6 or the Nissan GT-R?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan GT-R than the BMW M6. See the known issues comparison above.