This 2000SX wears skinny Federal FZ201 M 235/40R17, which weren’t warmed prior to the lap shown above. It doesn’t even run an SR20DET; it uses a CA18DET with stock internals. The T28BB turbocharger is slightly larger, but at 1.1 bar of boost, it’s not going to make much more than 250 horsepower. Yes, the car sports an aftermarket intercooler, radiator, and oil cooler—as a tracked 200SX ought to have—and a custom 3″ exhaust and downpipe, but this engine is far from a powerhouse. Yet, it can keep up with a V10-powered M5.

The footwork is fairly basic, too. Ksport coilovers at all four corners don’t break the bank, and Energy Suspension bushings help the twenty-something-year-old Nissan convey some more information through the driver’s backside. Upgraded knuckles front and rear, Skyline brakes—you get the picture. In some people’s eyes, this is a mildly tuned 200SX only suited for sideways stunts.

Even on a quick lap, a little opposite lock was expected.

Turns out, with the right alignment and a handy driver, it’s quite the road course car, too. The difference in power is obvious once the road straightens, and the dark blue M5 streaks away when it’s able to use its full force. The Nissan’s not the grippiest machine around, and it shows its age in some sections—most notably at 2:00, when, after carrying plenty of speed out of Fuchsröhre, he gets the car into a tasty four wheel-slide.

However, his lines are tidy and his driving quite reserved most of the time. That, coupled with an inherently nimble car, help him keep in touch. Eventually, he receives a well-deserved point-by at the Karussell, and makes his way forwards.