Nissan recently updated the road-going GT-R with new suspension components and engine parts. While they were doing that Nismo, the performance and motorsport arm of the company, has been applying its own updates to the Nismo GT-R GT3 race car. It’s faster and more versatile than ever.

The new model has updated aerodynamics, which is sort of visible, what with those winglets and canards on the front bumper and a massive wing at the back. The suspension is also optimized accordingly with the new aerodynamics, just as the gear ratio is changed to cope with the engine output, which by the way is 550 hp and about 470 lb-ft of torque. A lot of emphasis has been put on the engine in fact. It’s been tweaked for better performance and more durability, thanks to a new camshaft timing.

The GT3 version of the GT-R is a multi-talented racing car and can be outfitted for competition in various GT classes, including European Le Mans series and Japanese Super GT. This car is only built to order, and costs about £270,000 ~ $430,000.

Update: We just received word from JRM, which manufactures and sells the Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 race car in Europe, the Middle East and Russia, and they are hosting test sessions for the car at the Portimão Circuit, Portugal, on November 27th and 28th. They are inviting race teams and potential customers to come down to Portimão and check the car out in person.

“We urge any race team out there, particularly if they are considering entering GT racing for the first time, to contact us about attending the Portimão test day, where we have exclusive use of the track and a new test car for drivers and engineers,” says Mark Dexter, JRM’s sales manager. “GT3 racing is not as expensive as people think and we believe the Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 offers the most affordable and competitive package with which to exploit this category. Now is the perfect time to make the switch in time for the 2013 race season.”

We will try to be there to make a report from the test event and the Nismo GT-R. Stay tuned.