Chris Forsberg is a well-known name in the world of drifting, where he has achieved three Formula Drift championships. He currently dominates the series with his powerful 1300-horsepower 2023 Nissan Z. However, Forsberg is about to switch gears, quite literally, as he prepares to compete in a Nissan Frontier as he Tackles 500 Mile race at the Baja peninsula.
For the upcoming NORRA 500, Nissan and Forsberg will put a mostly stock Frontier pickup to the test. This challenging off-road race spans 500 miles, taking participants from Ensenada, Baja California to San Felipe on the Sea of Cortez, and then back to Ensenada.
A Little Help from Nismo:
While the Frontier will compete in the stock vehicle class, it is allowed to have optional accessories. Consequently, numerous Nismo branded off road components have been added to enhance its performance, including a Nismo high-performance suspension and lift kit, auxiliary lights, and rock sliders. The truck is also equipped with Nismo’s bead-lock 17-inch wheels, which are wrapped in the excellent Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 tires (known for their exceptional performance).
Once the race is over, Nissan intends to showcase the Frontier in its current form at the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during SEMA week. Alongside it will be Forsberg’s aforementioned Z, a Frontier powered by a V8 engine, and the astonishing 2,000-horsepower Altima known as the “Altimaniac.”
A brief History:
Back in the 1980s, Nissan trucks were a common sight in off-road races like the Baja 1000. The Nissan 720 started the competition, followed by the Nissan Hardbody. The latter won prestigious races such as the Baja 1000, Mint 400, and Gold Coast 300. Perhaps this rich history is why Nissan recently reintroduced the Hardbody as a throwback trim for the Frontier earlier this year.
As the Nissan Frontier Tackles 500 Mile race, we will bring you updates along the way.