Lexus
LFA
Owner report available
Nissan
GT-R
Owner report available
Lexus LFA vs Nissan GT-R
The short answer
Based on available data, the Nissan GT-R comes out ahead of the Lexus LFA 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
LFA
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, characterized by deep reverence and admiration. The vehicle is consistently described as a "technical masterpiece," "one of the greatest cars ever made," and an "engineering exercise" that prioritized passion and perfection over profitability. The naturally aspirated V10 engine, co-developed with Yamaha, is universally praised for its sound and high-revving character, with the exhaust note frequently cited as a defining, emotionally resonant feature.
Best version to buy
Nürburgring Package: Mentioned as a highly desirable, more track-focused variant that exposed more of the carbon fiber bodywork. The standard LFA is also held in extremely high regard.
Known issues
- Extremely high production cost and initial sales difficulty: Toyota/Lexus lost a significant amount of money (reportedly seven figures) on each unit sold, and dealers had difficulty moving them at launch. Frequency: very frequent.
- Perceived "boring" driving dynamics: Isolated opinion that the car's exceptional engineering and perfectly tuned chassis can make it feel almost too competent and lacking in drama or feedback during normal driving. Frequency: isolated.
- Heavier than expected weight: Despite an advanced carbon fiber chassis, published curb weight (approximately 3,569 lbs / 1,619 kg) is noted to be heavier than some contemporary rivals with less sophisticated construction.
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 more power on its best-equipped version than the Lexus LFA, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Lexus LFA is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Lexus LFA or the Nissan GT-R?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Lexus LFA and the Nissan GT-R. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Lexus LFA or the Nissan GT-R?
The Nissan GT-R seats more passengers than the Lexus LFA on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Lexus LFA is classed as a Coupe, the Nissan GT-R as a Coupe.
Which has better fuel economy, the Lexus LFA or the Nissan GT-R?
The EPA rates the 2012 Lexus LFA at 13 mpg combined and the 2024 Nissan GT-R at 18 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Lexus LFA 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 Lexus LFA. See the known issues comparison above.