From Importing to Racing: An Interview with Brian Jannusch, GT-R Enthusiast and Pennzoil Ambassador
Brian Jannusch’s journey from casual car enthusiast to internationally recognized GT-R expert is one fueled by passion and dedication. Known for importing and selling Japanese sports cars, Brian has become an authority on one of the most iconic cars in the world — the GT-R. His expertise extends beyond the garage and onto the racetrack, where he continues to break new ground.
In this exclusive Q&A, Brian sits down with Pennzoil to discuss his career, his passion for preserving vintage vehicles, and how Pennzoil has played a vital role in his success as a racer and collector.
PENNZOIL: Have cars always been a part of your life? When did you realize the automotive industry was your calling?
BRIAN: Actually, not at all. This isn’t where I thought I’d end up. It started when a friend of mine wanted to start a business importing Japanese sports cars, and I began helping him out. One thing led to another, and now this is my life’s work.
PENNZOIL: You’re well-known for your love of Japanese sports cars, particularly the GT-R. What makes these cars special to you?
BRIAN: I didn’t initially plan to build a career around the GT-R. But when I started working with them, I got hooked. The more I learned, drove, and spent time around GT-R enthusiasts, the more fascinated I became. It’s now what I’m known for internationally, and I’m proud of that.
PENNZOIL: What sparked your interest in racing, and how did you get started on the track?
BRIAN: Racing was a natural extension of my desire to learn everything I could about GT-Rs. One of the best ways to understand a car’s limits is by racing it. I took my personal R32 Skyline GT-R to a track event, and after just one lap, I was hooked. From there, my journey into racing took off, and I’ve been competing in the Nissan Challenge ever since.
PENNZOIL: You recently trained at the Radford Racing School. Can you tell us about that experience?
BRIAN: Radford was fantastic. It allowed me to earn my racing license in only four days, which is essential for taking the next step in competitive racing. It gave me the confidence and validation to know I’m on the right track—literally—and the skills I gained have opened up new opportunities for future events.
PENNZOIL: What are your goals for 2025 in terms of racing?
BRIAN: One of my biggest goals for next year is to ship my race car to Germany and compete in the German Time Attack Masters at Nürburgring. I’ve driven there before, but racing my own car on that track would be a dream come true. I’m also looking into entering the GRIDLIFE series here in the U.S., which would be a new challenge for me.
Brian Jannusch earns his racing license at the Radford Racing School.
Brian Jannusch takes his sleek GT-R for a spin, representing Pennzoil’s commitment to automotive excellence on the track.
From street to track, Brian Jannusch pushes his Pennzoil®-backed vehicles to the limit, showcasing the performance and reliability that comes from decades of innovation.
PENNZOIL: You import some of the most iconic Japanese cars to the U.S. How do you ensure they are in peak condition for their new owners?
BRIAN: Toprank, the company I work for, has a facility in Tokyo where we inspect, maintain, and restore these cars. These vehicles are at least 25 years old, so they require a lot of care. One of the things I’m passionate about is ensuring these cars are preserved properly and handed off to new owners who will continue to care for them. Products such as Pennzoil Platinum® Racing 10W-60, which I use in GT-R engines, are key to ensuring the longevity and performance of these rare machines.
PENNZOIL: How has your relationship with Pennzoil impacted your journey as a collector and racer?
BRIAN: Working with Pennzoil has been life-changing. I've gained access to a network of incredibly knowledgeable people who have shared insights and advice that have been invaluable in both my racing and restoration work. I've also had the opportunity to connect with other enthusiasts and professionals through Pennzoil, which has been an amazing experience.
PENNZOIL: The Long May We Drive campaign celebrates the love of driving. How does that resonate with you?
BRIAN: It’s a perfect fit for what I do. I deal with older cars that require care and attention to keep them running. For me, Long May We Drive is about preserving these vehicles. I want to drive my 1990 R32 GT-R on the track for as long as possible, which takes a lot of maintenance and the right products.
PENNZOIL: What advice would you give to someone looking to follow a similar career path?
BRIAN: Do your own thing, and don’t try to copy others. The easiest path would have been for me to mimic what other content creators and racers were doing, but I chose to go my own way. The result is that I’ve built something unique. Even if only a small group of people like it, at least I’m doing what I love. Worst case, you get popular; best case, you’re happy with your work.
PENNZOIL: You’ve become a trusted name in the GT-R world. How do you ensure these high-performance machines are always race-ready, and what role does engine protection play?
BRIAN: The key is using Pennzoil Platinum® Racing 10W-60. Anyone who knows these engines will tell you that thicker oil is the way to go. I’ve tested it, and it’s the best oil for GT-Rs, especially for the RB26 engine. I was using Pennzoil before our partnership. It’s simply the best product for these engines.
Brian Jannusch prepares for another high-octane performance, trusting Pennzoil® to keep his engine running smoothly and ready for the next challenge.
Brian Jannusch strikes a pose with his Pennzoil®-powered Nissan, a testament to the precision and power that fuels his journey on and off the track.