The Nissan R390 GT1’s active aerodynamics system during the 1997-98 Le Mans campaign could redirect approximately 15% of engine cooling air into the underfloor diffuser during corners, essentially weaponizing waste heat to generate additional downforce—a solution so thermodynamically clever that it allowed Nissan to run smaller, lighter radiators than competitors while paradoxically improving both cooling efficiency and cornering grip simultaneously.
Car Fact #110 — October 4, 2026
