ISUZU 4200R Concept ‘1989

Production year

1989

Engine type

Engine name

LT5 4.2L

Max Speed

285 km/h

Power

350 hp

Max RPM

6500

0-100 km/h

5.3 sec

Torque Peak

437 Nm

Transmission

5-MT

Weight

1500 kg

Layout

Number Produced

Manufactured in

Japan

This great concept car was presented at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show by Isuzu Motors, which had great success with models like the Piazza and Gemini at the time, unveiled an eye-catching new concept car. Its organic curves created gave it a dynamic form, and the passenger compartment was set forward, giving it an appearance of a beast ready to pounce. This high-performance midship sportscar with four doors (! see picture below)and four seats was the talk of the Tokyo Motor Show that year.

Designed by Shiro Nakamura, who at the time was the chief designer at Isuzu Motors Europe Studio (later changed to Nissan). Going abroad to Europe by himself in 1988, he established Isuzu’s design studio in Coventry, Birmingham, England. And by organizing designers who had ties with Lotus, who were under the same GM group at the time, he created the 4200R. In was a milestone in Mr. Nakamura’s career.

Some interesting specs

The transversely mounted engine was Isuzu’s newly developed 4.2L, DOHC 32 valve V8 engine, and its light weight and high power was it strong point. The active suspension was developed in conjunction with Lotus, and it balanced both control stability and ride quality. The interior contained a automotive navigation system, a video deck, high performance audio system and even a fax machine.

It is notable that while being a mid engine car, it was designed to accommodate two adults and two children, and is practical enough to use for long drives.

Why beautiful 4200R never showed up on the roads?

But Isuzu at the time was transitioning to focus more on SUVs, and in 1993 they completely withdrew from the passenger car market. Amidst this transition, the 4200R had lost its role, and the beautiful body of the car was set to be dismantled.

4200R in Gran Turismo

By the time Mr. Nakamura met GT genuis Kazunori Yamauchi who had actually seen the 4200R at Makuhari Messe (Japanese largest convention center) in person 20 years prior, immediately made a proposal. The idea, revive the 4200R through Gran Turismo. It was decided. New life would be breathed into the legendary car after all these years thanks to Polyphony Digital. Featured in Gran Turismo 6. By Jan 2025 does not exist in Gran Turismo 7, unfortunately.