Smokey Nagata's 1100bhp Top Secret Nissan GT-R: The Ultimate Modified Japanese Supercar

The Legendary Top Secret Nissan GT-R: Smokey Nagata's Personal Masterpiece

For enthusiasts of Japanese performance cars, the name Top Secret carries an almost mythical status within the tuning world. Founded by the legendary Smokey Nagata - famous for his daring high-speed exploits and distinctive gold liveries - this tuning house has created some of the most respected modified vehicles ever to emerge from Japan. Among their most celebrated creations is this extraordinary 1100bhp Nissan GT-R R35, which represents the pinnacle of Japanese tuning excellence.

The car gained international recognition in 2013 when it dominated the Nardo High Speed Challenge with an astonishing record speed of 377.242kph (234.407mph), cementing its reputation as one of the world's fastest modified production cars. This achievement wasn't just a demonstration of raw power, but a testament to the meticulous engineering and aerodynamic refinement that defines Top Secret's philosophy.

Acquiring a Legend: The Story Behind the Purchase

Lewis Petrie, the current custodian of this remarkable machine, explains how he came to own such an iconic vehicle. "Well, it started off as a tongue in cheek suggestion and just ended up as a real opportunity," Lewis recalls. "But this isn't a car you can just turn up and buy. It was more of an invitation I was honoured to accept."

In Japanese tuning culture, ownership often transcends mere financial transactions. Many owners carefully select buyers based on their appreciation for the vehicle and understanding of its significance. Lewis earned this privilege through years of building relationships with Top Secret, having previously developed a high-spec R34 GT-R using their components and making multiple visits to Japan.

Engineering Excellence: The Complete Technical Overhaul

As Smokey Nagata's personal demo car, this R35 GT-R received the full Top Secret treatment with priority given to achieving extreme high-speed stability. The VR38DETT engine was completely rebuilt using a GReddy 4-litre stroker kit with upgraded internals, HKS camshafts, and TD06-25G turbochargers. The transmission received equally comprehensive modifications, including an Ogura clutch and specially calibrated gear ratios optimised for velocity runs.

The chassis enhancements are equally impressive, featuring Top Secret TSS coilovers, Brembo braking systems, and Enkei SR01MG wheels measuring 10x20 inches at the front and 11x20 inches at the rear. The aerodynamics package includes a full Top Secret G-Effect system with a remarkable DRS spoiler that automatically adjusts angle under braking to create additional downforce and drag.

Signature Gold Livery and Carbon Fibre Construction

Perhaps the most recognisable feature of any genuine Top Secret demo car is the exclusive gold paint finish, reserved only for Smokey's personal vehicles and company showcase models. This distinctive colour immediately identifies the car as something truly special within the tuning community.

The exterior is complemented by extensive carbon fibre components including the bonnet, boot lid, wings, sideskirts, and over-fenders. Clever design touches include hidden tow hooks that fold away behind the front bumper and rear number plate to maintain clean lines when not required.

Surprisingly Practical Interior

Despite the race-bred performance modifications, the interior retains a surprising degree of practicality. Unlike many extensively modified supercars, this GT-R hasn't been stripped of its rear seats or fitted with a full roll cage. It even retains its original carpets, making it remarkably civilised for road use.

That said, the cabin certainly doesn't feel standard. Bride bucket seats with Takata harnesses, a custom Top Secret steering wheel, and extensive carbon fibre trim on the dashboard, door cards, and centre console create a purposeful yet comfortable environment. As Lewis notes, it provides a "cosy cockpit feel" that would make sustained high-speed driving surprisingly manageable.

Current Specification and Future Plans

For road use in the UK, the engine mapping has been detuned to approximately 900bhp with 950Nm of torque - still an extraordinary output by any measure. Lewis maintains immense respect for the vehicle's heritage and views himself primarily as its caretaker rather than owner. "I still feel like it's Smokey's car," he explains, "and that my job is simply to look after it."

While he has no plans for major modifications, Lewis acknowledges he might consider returning the engine to its full 1100bhp potential for specific events. The car continues to make appearances at major UK Japanese car events, including Japfest at Silverstone, where enthusiasts can witness this legendary machine in person.

Technical Specification: Top Secret Nissan GT-R R35

Engine: Top Secret built 4.0L VR38 with GReddy stroker kit, HKS camshafts and valve springs, TD06-25G turbochargers, Top Secret titanium exhaust system, GReddy ECU and fuel system

Power: Originally 1100+ bhp with 1200Nm torque, currently detuned to 900bhp and 950Nm for road use

Transmission: Ogura clutch, Top Secret uprated gearbox internals with high-speed sixth gear ratio

Chassis: Top Secret TSS coilovers, Brembo brakes with Endless pads, Enkei SR01MG wheels (20-inch), Bridgestone Potenza tyres

Aerodynamics: Full Top Secret G-Effect package with carbon fibre components and DRS spoiler system

Interior: Bride bucket seats, Takata harnesses, Top Secret steering wheel, extensive carbon fibre trim

This extraordinary Nissan GT-R stands as a testament to Japanese tuning excellence and the visionary approach of Smokey Nagata and the Top Secret team. It represents not just extreme performance, but the cultural significance and personal relationships that define the world of high-end Japanese car modification.