The GTR utilized the same basic 6.0 liter V12 engine that had made its debut on the street-legal GT, but with revised fuel and ignition systems, individual throttle bodies, a dynamic air intake duct system, variable valve timing, titanium connecting rods, and a lightened crankshaft. These improvements allowed the engine to produce 598 PS (440 kW; 590 hp) and 640 N·m (472 lb·ft) of torque.

The engine was bolted to the usual 5-speed transmission in a rear-wheel drive layout. Extra heat exhangers were added for the differential and transmission oil to prevent overheating under extreme racing conditions. A fast-filling racing fuel cell replaced the standard gasoline tank. The suspension was stiffened and lowered, and racing brake calipers were installed.