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Skyline GT-R
The Skyline GT-R is one of the grades of the Skyline, a passenger car produced and sold by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. This car is affectionately known by various nicknames such as “R”, “Suka G-R”, “GT-R”, as well as different model names for each generation.
The history
The history of the “GT-R” began in 1968, developed as a successor to the Prince Skyline 2000GT-B, which was active in touring car races at the time. The first-generation GT-R, released in 1969, equipped a prototype sports car engine into the body of a Skyline 2000GT. Since then, five models have been developed, produced, and sold over two generations. The GT-R, mainly developed for racing, is a representative of high-performance cars in Japan, exhibiting maximum performance within all racing regulations. The R32 model, released in 1989, is particularly popular and trades at high prices in the used car market. There is a flourishing business of exporting to North America and re-importing back to Japan, with prices ranging from several million to tens of millions of yen, showing a trend of maintaining high values.
First Generation S20 Engine Series (1969 – 1973)
The first generation of the “GT-R” included the PGC10 model introduced in 1969, and the KPGC10 model introduced in 1970. Known by the catchphrase “a wolf in sheep’s clothing”, this car featured a subdued sedan body equipped with a ferocious engine. This engine was Nissan’s S20 model, a DOHC 4-valve engine designed for racing. The steering gear ratio and suspension were also hardened to racing specifications, while heaters and radios, deemed unnecessary, were optional.In 1970, a 2-door coupe body with a 70mm shorter wheelbase was added, and the GT-R evolved into the KPGC10 model. This change resulted in a lower and more streamlined body, reducing air resistance. The shortened wheelbase improved maneuverability, further enhancing the competitive edge of the GT-R.The total production volume of the first-generation GT-R was 832 for the PGC10 model and 1,197 for the KPGC10 model. The new car sale price was 1.5 million yen for the sedan and 1.54 million yen for the coupe.
mechanism
The most noteworthy feature of this generation was the incorporation of the Nissan S20 engine, which was developed based on the design of the GR8 engine used in the Prince R380. This engine was developed and installed because the G7 engine used in the previous Prince Skyline 2000GT (S54 type) was losing competitiveness in touring car races.The exhaust system used a stainless steel equal-length exhaust manifold that bundled three cylinders each into one. Apart from sharing the outer shell of the silencer, the two tailpipes leading to the open air were completely independent.The gearbox was Nissan’s own FS5C71A and B-type 5-speed floor shift. It was an always-engaged manual transmission with a Porsche-style servo synchromesh on all gears. There were three gear ratios available for racing, with the standard equipment having the first gear as the lowest and the rest being cross ratios. The differential gear was equipped with a multi-plate clutch LSD.The suspension was the same as the 2000GT, with front struts and rear semi-trailing arm suspension, but the springs, dampers, and the stabilizer installed only at the front were all reinforced.The interior was noteworthy for its minimalism – it had everything necessary for the driver, but very little that wasn’t necessary. The driver and navigator seats were leather-wrapped bucket-type seats without a reclining mechanism. The driver’s seat came with a 3-point seatbelt, headrest, and sun visor as standard, but these were optional on the passenger side. Other options included a heater, radio, clock, door pockets, 2-point seatbelts for the passenger and rear seats, and even assist grips.Sport options for competition were very comprehensive, with everything from engine-related parts like aluminum forged high-compression pistons, large diameter carburetors, and oil coolers, to suspension and brake enhancements, wide steel wheels, and more. There were also parts that were extremely useful for road driving, such as wide-type room mirrors and laminated windshields mandated by race regulations.
2nd generation KPGC110 type (1973)
From January to April 1973, the fourth-generation Skyline (C110 type), based on the Hardtop 2000GT, was sold as the “2000GT-R” for three months. This model was equipped with a dedicated radiator grille, front and rear overfenders, and a rear spoiler, and radio was standard equipment. The S20 type engine, same as the previous model, was adopted, but this engine did not comply with the Showa 48 year emissions regulations, so it did not actually participate in races. Production and sales ended in just three months, with a total of 197 units produced (195 of which were sold to the public). The new car sales price was 1.62 million yen. Contrary to the success of the previous model, the name GT-R was discontinued from the KPGC110 type onwards until the BNR32 type was launched 16 years later, in 1989.
mechanism
Although the engine remains the same as the previous generation, the fuel tank has been nearly halved from 100L to 55L, a stabilizer has been added to the rear, and master vac-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes have been installed. The car’s overall length has been extended by 130mm, its width by 30mm, and its wheelbase by 40mm, distinguishing it from the GT series by the addition of overfenders. These additional features resulted in a total weight increase of 45kg. Also, this model began the use of round 4-lamp taillights, a feature that continues in the current Nissan GT-R.
2nd generation RB26 engine series (1989-2002)
3rd generation BNR32 type (1989-1994)
The Skyline GT-R made a comeback in 1989 after a hiatus of 16 years. The 8th generation Skyline was equipped with the latest devices at the time and had a specially designed RB26DETT engine. However, due to horsepower regulations, it was rated at 280 PS for the Japanese market. Originally, there were plans to revive the “GT-R”, but the plan was withdrawn due to criticism of the engine in the R31 model, and development proceeded under the provisional name of “GT-X”. About 100 units were also exported to Australia.The new GT-R adopted a 2,568cc engine to comply with Group A regulations, and was equipped with exclusive 16-inch forged aluminum wheels and an aluminum front fender, among other features. In 1990, the GT-R NISMO was released in a limited edition of 500 units, achieving a debut win in the All Japan Touring Car Championship.
Eight color variations, including Gun Gray Metallic, were sold for the car body. Initially, Dark Green Metallic was also planned for sale, but ultimately it was not sold.
mechanism
The most significant feature of the BNR32 model is its adoption of a multitude of the latest equipment at that time. Specifically, while the GT-R had been a naturally aspirated engine with rear-wheel drive from the PGC10 to KPGC110 models, the BNR32 model introduced a newly developed twin-turbo engine, the RB26DETT, and transitioned to four-wheel drive. Additionally, advanced systems such as the “ATTESA E-TS” and “Super HICAS” were incorporated. The RB26DETT engine was developed with motorsport participation in mind, boasting an engine strength far surpassing the average production car and achieving high output levels of 280 PS/36 kgf·m.On the other hand, a drawback was that in exchange for durability, the engine block was made of cast iron, resulting in increased vehicle weight. The front-heavy weight distribution and advanced devices ultimately resulted in the lack of standard equipped brakes capable of enduring hard driving, leading to issues such as understeer and brake fade. To solve these problems, larger Brembo brake calipers were adopted in the V-Spec version.
grade
standard car
From its initial launch, the standard grade model had a vehicle weight of 1,430 kg for the early models, and 1,480 kg for the middle and later models.
GT-R NISMO
In line with the first race of the 1990 All-Japan Touring Car Championship, a model was produced in a limited run of 500 units, with a total of 560 units being manufactured including race base models. This model, designated as KBNR32RXFSL-RA, was a homologation model for Group A participation. In this model, the ceramic turbine was replaced with a metal turbine, and a custom exhaust manifold was used accordingly. In addition, air conditioning, audio system, rear wiper, ABS, and intercooler grille were removed to reduce the vehicle weight to 1,400 kg. Furthermore, for improved cooling efficiency and aerodynamics, additional air intakes were installed on the bonnet and front bumper, a protector for streamlining around the rear tires was mounted at the rear of the side sill, and a small rear spoiler was added to the rear.
V-spec
This model was introduced during a minor change in February 1993. In this higher-end model, the diameter of the standard car’s front brake rotor was enlarged from 296 mm to 324 mm, and the rear brake rotor from 297 mm to 300 mm. It was equipped with Brembo vented discs (front 4POT, rear 2POT) and 225/50R17 inch BBS wheels. Accompanying these changes, the suspension settings were readjusted, and the logic pattern of the ATTESA E-TS was also altered. The vehicle weight is 1,500 kg.
N1
This model, released on July 19, 1991, was designed with use in the N1 Endurance Race (now Super Endurance) in mind. Fundamentally, it follows the GT-R NISMO in terms of comfort equipment removal and absence of ABS, but enhancements were made to the engine block to strengthen it and allow it to withstand increased output, resulting in an N1-spec RB26 engine. This model also features NISMO original wheels, NISMO steering, an exhaust, strut tower bars, enlarged brake rotors (with removal of pinholes and addition of brake ducts), and conversion to a rectangular dual-bulb halogen headlamp. The body color was exclusively Crystal White. With the subsequent launch of the V-Spec, Brembo brakes were added and the model transitioned to the V-Spec N1. Further, when the V-Spec was replaced by the V-Spec II, this model became the V-Spec II N1.
V Spec II
This model was launched in February 1994. It aimed to improve cornering speed by upgrading the tires of the V-spec to 245/45R17 (At the time of the V-spec’s release, the 45R approval had not been granted and was only lifted the following year).
chronology
On May 22, 1989, the 8th generation Skyline was announced, followed by the launch of the GT-R and GTS-4 in August. On March 11, 1990, the GT-R NISMO, a homologation model for the All Japan Touring Car Championship (Group A), was released in a limited run of 500 units. The first minor change occurred on August 20, 1991, transitioning to the mid-term model. At this time, enhancements were made to the collision safety equipment, the headlamps and crankshaft shape were enlarged, and the cylinder block was reinforced. A second minor change occurred on February 3, 1993, transitioning to the late-term model. This included improvements to the clutch and transmission, as well as the addition of the V-spec and V-spec N1 models. On February 14, 1994, the V-spec II was launched. The last standard model was produced on November 7, 1994, with a total of 43,934 units produced. Sales ended in December 1994.
4th generation BCNR33 type (1995-1998)
The BCNR33 model, released on January 6, 1995, was first announced as a prototype at the Tokyo Motor Show immediately after the announcement of the R33 Skyline in August 1993. Modifications were made primarily to the front area before the release of the production model, which was unveiled a year and five months after the standard model’s sales began. The unveiling of this R33 GT-R took place not at a typical motor show, but at the Tokyo Auto Salon, a festival for modified cars. The testing at the Nürburgring circuit was highly emphasized, and the prototype model of BCNR33 recorded a time of 7 minutes 59 seconds, leading to the catchphrase “21 seconds less romance”. From the time of release, V-spec and V-spec N1 were available, and in 1997, a special model ‘Skyline GT-R Autech Version 40th ANNIVERSARY’, becoming the first four-door sedan GT-R since the PGC10 model, was released. Additionally, the model participated in the All Japan GT Championship and the Le Mans 24-hour race and was officially exported to the UK in a limited run of 100 units. However, exports to North America were reconsidered due to engine development issues.
mechanism
The BCNR33 model, like its predecessor the BNR32 model, is equipped with the RB26DETT engine. However, to accommodate the increased vehicle weight, there was a need to improve the output. Consequently, the ECU was upgraded from 8-bit to 16-bit, the supercharging pressure was increased, and improvements such as revising valve timing, intake and exhaust systems, compression ratio, and friction loss were made. This resulted in an output of 280PS/37.5kgf·m. Brembo brake calipers became standard equipment for all vehicles, and the V-Spec series adopted an active LSD. Compared to the R32 model, the vehicle length increased by 130mm and the wheelbase by 105mm, making the body wider. Body reinforcement was also carried out, increasing rigidity. While the basic interior layout is similar to the BNR32 model, a GT-R logo was added to the tachometer, and the high beam sign was moved from the lower part to the upper part. The steering wheel, which was unpopular in the initial model, was changed to a sportier shape from the mid-model. Moreover, the battery was placed in the trunk, and the interior trim and seats were changed from a blue theme in the early model to a red theme in the later model.
grade
standard car
Standard car.
V-spec
The V-Spec is a high-end model equipped with an Active LSD and ATTESA E-TS PRO, and features a specially tuned suspension system and lowered ride height. However, in the April 1995 issue of Best Motoring, a race between the R33 publicity vehicle and racing driver Keiichi Tsuchiya’s commercially available V-Spec revealed that the commercial V-Spec was slower than the standard publicity vehicle, exposing a publicity-tuned setup.
V-spec N1
The N1, like its predecessors, is a base model designed for endurance racing participation. It comes with unique features such as a carbon center rear spoiler, carbon under cover, metal turbines, and air-cooled engine oil coolers. To reduce weight, passenger airbags, air conditioning, audio systems, centralized door locks, and rear wipers have been removed. Moreover, the body color is available in white only.
LM Limited
In May 1996, a special limited-time model was sold to commemorate the participation in the Le Mans 24 Hours race. This vehicle was offered in a unique color, “Champion Blue”, and was equipped with a center carbon wing with an angle adjustment function and a hood top molding. This special model was available for both the standard car and the V-Spec variant.
Skyline GT-R Autech Version 40th ANNIVERSARY
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Skyline, a model was unveiled at the 32nd Tokyo Motor Show in October 1997 and later sold as a made-to-order car. In order to replicate the blister fender of the 2-door GT-R, the press mold for the rear door and rear fender were recreated, giving the car the appearance of a 4-door GTS body modified to GT-R specifications (however, the rear retains the taillights of the 4-door model). The car was officially launched in January 1998, with a price of 4,985,000 yen. The model was classified as a “BCNR33 modification,” adding two doors to the rear of the 2-door body, making it a 2-door to 4-door GT-R. The car was assembled at the Murayama factory and finished at the Zama business office. The Kanagawa Prefectural Police and the Saitama Prefectural Police each introduced two of these models as patrol cars. A total of 422 units were produced.
NISMO 400R
This is a complete car developed by NISMO for commercial sale, which is equipped not with the RB26DETT engine, but with an engine known as the RB-X, which generates 400 horsepower. As an aside, the name “400R” has been reused as the grade name for the special edition car of the V37 Skyline, which underwent a minor change in July 2019.
NISMO GT-R LM
A homologation model to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, only one was built and registered in the UK.
chronology
The Nissan R33 Skyline GT-R was released on January 6, 1995, with an initial lineup that included the standard model, V-Spec, and V-Spec N1. A minor update was carried out on January 22, 1996, where dual SRS airbags became standard, along with changes to the steering design, rear finisher design, and the addition of new body colors. On May 21, 1996, a limited edition LM Limited was offered for two months. Another minor update took place on February 3, 1997, transitioning to the later model. This update featured projector xenon headlights, changing the right-side rear parking light to a rear fog lamp, introducing red-themed interior elements, and adopting N1-style bumpers for all vehicles. On January 1998, the Skyline GT-R Oettinger Version 40th ANNIVERSARY was launched. However, production ceased on November 9, 1998, and only existing inventory was available for purchase until December of the same year. The total production number reached 16,422 units.
5th generation BNR34 type (1999-2002)
The BNR34 type Skyline GT-R, which began sales on January 8, 1999 (Heisei 11), was the last model under the Skyline GT-R name. The vehicle dimensions were reduced from the previous model, improvements were made in front and rear weight distribution, and vehicle rigidity was enhanced. Additionally, it adopted an advanced aerodynamic system equipped with a large diffuser, and the styling was completely revamped. On the safety front, features such as the addition of side airbags and the adoption of immobilizers were implemented. In 2001, an M-Spec prioritizing ride comfort and quality was introduced, but due to the strengthening of emission regulations, production ended in 2002. Just before production ceased, the commemorative models ‘V-Spec II Nür’ and ‘M-Spec Nür’ were sold and sold out on the day of announcement. The car also excelled in motorsports, participating in the All Japan GT Championship and the Nürburgring 24-hour race, among others. The successor, Nissan GT-R, did not carry over the ‘Skyline’ name, making the BNR34 type the last as a Skyline GT-R.
mechanism
This passage describes the advanced technologies and their details in the BNR34-type Skyline GT-R, which was released in 1999. As a main feature, it mentions the V-spec model equipped with an advanced aero system. This includes a resin diffuser on the lower front part and a carbon diffuser on the lower rear part. The diffuser covers the underside of the car, taking in and streamlining air, thereby generating downforce. The tires and wheels have been enlarged to 18 inches and lightened. The brakes continue to use Brembo, and the transmission is a 6-speed mission jointly developed with Germany’s Getrag. The engine is equipped with the RB26DETT type, and with the adoption of the Garrett ceramic turbine and increased maximum supercharging pressure, drivability has improved. Inside, a multi-function display has been introduced, allowing to check the vehicle’s condition. In addition, the arrangement of the tachometer and speedometer is unique, and especially in the V-spec lineage, the tachometer has a two-tier scale specification with scales below 3,000 rpm compressed. In the minor change in 2000, the brake rotors were enlarged, and the pedals and shift knobs were changed to aluminum. The V-spec became the V-spec II and adopted the first carbon bonnet in mass-produced cars, achieving weight reduction and reducing the temperature around the turbine.
grade
standard car
Standard car.
V-spec
upper grade. Advanced aero system, compression tachometer, active LSD and ATTESA E-TS PRO
N1
This passage discusses the traditional N1 endurance race base model. This model features the conventional N1 specification engine, oil cooler, and metal turbine, and the center console and hand brake have been made of resin. In addition, it lacks an air conditioner, audio system, rear wiper, and remote control mirror. The 322mm brake rotor equipped in this N1 model was later made a standard feature in all cars during a minor change. Furthermore, during a minor change in August 2000, it was updated to the V-Spec IIN1, compliant with V-Spec II.
midnight purple II
この文章は、1999年1月末まで販売されていたR34GT-Rの発売記念モデルについて述べています。このモデルは、R33型で採用されていたミッドナイトパープル色に、構造色（モルフォテックス）が使用されました。このバージョンはVスペックと一緒に300台だけ限定で製造されました。
This text discusses a commemorative model of the R34GT-R, which was sold until the end of January 1999. This model featured the use of a structural color (morphotex), which was applied to the Midnight Purple color that was adopted in the R33 model. This version was produced as a limited edition of only 300 units, combined with the V-Spec variant.
midnight purple III
This text describes a special edition vehicle that was exhibited at the 33rd Tokyo Motor Show, which took place from October 23rd to November 3rd in 1999. This special edition vehicle was on sale until the end of March 2000, and it had a more glossy finish compared to the M.N.P.II.
V Spec II
Its main features include a carbon bonnet equipped with NACA ducts, and the “II” character in the grade is colored in red.
M-spec
This passage describes a car specification that prioritizes ride comfort and luxury. The suspension settings have been modified, and it comes equipped with hand-stitched, genuine leather seats with built-in heaters, as well as a dedicated steering wheel. The bonnet, like conventional models, is made of aluminum, and a unique color, Silica Breath, has been introduced. The grade letter ‘M’ is presented in black.
V spec II Nür・M spec Nür
The commemorative model announced on January 24, 2002, is a limited edition of 1,000 units to celebrate the end of production of the R34 type GT-R. The name of this model, “Nür”, is derived from the Nürburgring, a circuit in Germany where the GT-R was tested. The engine, water pump, exhaust manifold, and others are all in the N1 specification, and the gold-colored N1 engine with a head cover has been balanced. Additionally, the speedometer can display up to 300 km/h, and the manufacturer’s plate is also in gold. A new limited color, Millennium Jade, has been added for the body color. The V Spec II Nür has Bayside Blue as its exclusive color, while the M Spec Nür has Silica Breath.
NISMO R34GT-R Z-tune
These vehicles are complete cars sold by NISMO, created from high-quality, used V-Spec models and released as a commemorative model for NISMO’s 20th anniversary. Out of the 20 units that were planned to be produced, 19 actually ended up in the hands of users. The majority were in NISMO’s Z-tune Silver, however, due to the persistent requests from a few Japanese users, a Millennium Jade unit and a Midnight Purple III (the 10th chassis number) were finally produced at NISMO’s Omori Factory, despite multiple refusals.
chronology
・The first R34GT-R was launched on January 8, 1999, with a lineup of standard and V-spec models, as well as the Midnight Purple II that was sold until the end of the month.
・On January 7, 2000, the Midnight Purple III was launched as a limited time offer until March.
・On October 30, 2000, minor changes were made including the turn signal lens transitioning from orange to clear, and the pedals changed from plastic to metal. Additionally, all models adopted the N1-spec large rear brake rotor. At this point, the V-spec was replaced by V-spec II, and the Active Red and Lightning Yellow were discontinued.
・The M-spec was launched on May 8, 2001, simultaneously discontinuing the Athlete Silver color.
・On January 24, 2002, the final limited models, V-spec II Nür and M-spec Nür, were announced with a limited run of 1,000 units, which sold out instantly. They were launched and began to be delivered to customers on February 26 of the next month.
・Production ended in November 2002, with only inventory left. The total production count was 11,345 units.
・Finally, sales ended in December 2002.