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See also Nissan Skyline GT-R

Nissan Skyline
Manufacturer:	Fuji Precision Industries/Prince/Nissan
Production:	1957-present
Class:	midsize car
ALSI-1/ALSI-2
Production:	1957–1963 33 759 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 5-door station wagon
Engines:	1.5 L GA-4 I4
BLRA-3
Production:	1961
Body Styles:	FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	1.9 L GB-30 I4
S50/S54/S57
Production:	1963–1968 114 238 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan
Engines:	1.5 L G-1 I4 2.0 L G-7 I6 (2000GT) 1.5 L G15 I4 (S57)
C10
Production:	1968–1972 310 447 units sold
Body Styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 5-door station wagon FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	1.5 L G15 I4 1.8 L G18 I4 2.0 L L20 I6 (2000GT) 2.0 L S20 I6 (GT-R)
C110
Production:	1972–1977 670 562 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe FR 5-door station wagon
Engines:	1.6 L G16 I4 1.8 L G18 I4 2.0 L L20 I4 2.0 L S20 I6 2.4 L L24 I6
C211
Production:	1977–1981 539 727 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe FR 5-door station wagon
Engines:	1.6 L L16 I4 1.8 L L18 I4 2.0 L L20 I6 2.0 L L20ET I6
R30
Production:	1981–1985 406 432 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe FR 5-door hatchback FR 5-door station wagon
Engines:	1.8 L Z18S I4 1.8 L CA18E I4 2.0 L Z20E I4 2.8 L LD28 I6 2.0 L L20E I6 2.0 L L20ET I6 2.0 L FJ20E I4 2.0 L FJ20ET I4
R31
Production:	1985–1992 309 716 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 4-door hardtop FR 2-door coupe FR 4-door station wagon
Engines:	1.8 L CA18 I4 2.0 L CA20S I4 2.0 L RB20DE I6 2.0 L RB20DET I6 2.0 L RB20DET-R I6 3.0 L RB30E I6 2.8 L Diesel RD28 I6
R32
Production:	1989–1993 GT-R For 1989-1994 296 087 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	1.8  CA18I I4 2.0 L RB20E I6 2.0 L RB20DE I6 2.5 L RB25DE I6 2.0 L RB20DET I6 2.6 L RB26DETT I6 (GT-R)
R33
Production:	1993–1998 GT-R For 1995-1998 217 133 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	2.0 L RB20E I6 2.5 L RB25DE I6 2.5 L RB25DE I6 2.5 L RB25DET I6 2.6 L RB26DETT I6 (GT-R) 2.8 L RBX-GT2 I6 (400R)
R34
Production:	1998–2001 GT-R For 1999-2002 64 623 units sold
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	2.0 L RB20DE I6 2.5 L RB25DE I6 2.5 L RB25DET I6 2.6 L RB26DETT I6
V35
Production:	sedan 2001–2006 coupe 2001–present
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan FR 2-door coupe
Engines:	2.5 L VQ25DD V6 3.0 L VQ30DD V6 3.5 L VQ35DE V6
V36
Production:	2006–present (Japan)
Body styles:	FR 4-door sedan
Engines:	2.5 L VQ25HR V6 3.5 L VQ35HR V6

The Nissan Skyline is an intermediate-size automobile range sold in Japan and other countries. It is available in either coupe or sedan body styles. The current Skyline is sold in North America, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Middle East as the Infiniti G35.

[edit] ALSI-1

Prince Skyline ALSI-1

The first Skyline was introduced in April 1957,^[1] under the Prince marque, and was marketed as a luxury car. It featured a 1.5 L (1482 cc) GA30 engine producing 44 kW (60 hp). It used a de Dion tube rear suspension and was capable of 140 km/h (87 mph). The car weighed around 1300 kg. Prince Skylines were produced as four door sedans and five door station wagons.

The Skyline also spawned pickup truck and van lines called the "Prince Skyway."

[edit] ALSI-2

Prince Skyline ALSI-2

The Skyline was updated with quad headlights for 1957.
This model was powered by a slightly altered 1.5 L engine known as the GA-4 OHV (1484 cc) producing about 70 hp @ 4400 rpm and was produced through 1961.
Note: This is the first four round headlight car design in Japan)



Also it came in single colours and many colors

[edit] BLRA-3

The Skyline Sport featured hand-built Michelotti bodies in stylish coupe and convertible versions. These cars used the 1.9 L (1862 cc) GB-4 engine, producing 94 hp (69 kW, 153 Nm). Only a few were built.

[edit] S50 or BLSID

In 1961 Fuji Precision Industries changed its name to Prince after the 1954 merger, and the S50 series was launched. This was the second generation car, and became one of the more desirable cars in Japan. It was powered by the G-1 engine, a 70 hp (52 kW) version of the old GA-4. A 1862 cc engine was also available, delivering 91 hp.

In 1962, this model was restyled as the S21S series.

The S50 was further developed with new styling for 1963, and was sold in some markets with an A150 designation.

In 1966, Nissan and Prince merged and the S50 also appeared with Nissan Skyline badging. This model lasted in production through 1967.

[edit] S54

Prince created a racing GT Skyline In May 1964. It was based on the S54 and used the larger 6-cylinder G-7 engine from the Gloria S40, though the engine bay needed an 8" extension welded in to fit the straight six. When it entered the 2nd Japanese Grand prix they hoped to win the GT-II class. Competitive against the Porsche 904, the Skyline managed 2nd through to 6th places.

Largely due to the success of their race vehicle the Prince 2000GT (also called GT-A, GT-B, S54A and S54B) was released to the Japanese market. There were two versions produced:

• S54A - 1988 cc G-7 single-carb I6, 106 hp (78 kW)
• S54B - 1988 cc G-7 triple-carb I6, 127 hp (94 kW)

The B model featured three Weber 40DCOE-18 carburettors, a limited slip differential, 5-speed manual transmission, and power brakes. Both the B and A used front disc brakes with dual pistons.

[edit] S57

The S50 Skyline was updated to become the S57 in 1967. It used a Nissan engine, the OHC 1.5 L (1487 cc) G15. At 88 hp (66 kW), it was the most-powerful engine in the Japanese 1500 cc class.

[edit] C10

Skyline 2000GT-X
Known as Hakosuka (ハコスカ)

The C10 series of 1968, probably developed by Prince, got Nissan badging. There was no Prince equivalent on the market. It used Nissan's 1.5 L OHC G15 I4 like the S57. A 1.8 L G18 version was also available.

A station wagon variant was offered in this generation. A hardtop coupé was introduced in 1970.

[edit] 2000GT

The following year, the GC10 2000GT received a 2.0 L (1998 cc) L20 I6 engine. The chassis was already designed to receive a straight six, to avoid the S54 extension problem. 105 hp (78 kW) was available from this new engine.

[edit] GT-R

The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969. Called the PGC-10 (KPGC-10 for later coupé version) internally and Hakosuka (ハコスカ) by fans. Hako (ハコ) means Box in Japanese, and suka（スカ） is short for Skyline (スカイライン; Sukairain). It used the 2.0 L (1998 cc) S20 I6. This new DOHC engine produced 160 hp (118 kW, 180 Nm), equal to the best sports cars of the time, and was similar to the GR8 engine used in the Nissan R380 racing car.

The GT-R began as a sedan, but a 2-door coupé version was introduced in March of 1971. The cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment to be as light as possible for racing, and the cars performed well at the track. The sedan racked up 33 victories in less than two years, and the coupé stretched this to 50 through 1972.

The C10 raced against many cars including Toyota 1600 GT5, Isuzu Bellett GTR, Mazda Familia (R100) & Capella (RX-2) - even Porsche. In late 1971 the new Mazda RX-3 became the GT-R's main rival. The GT-R managed a few more victories before the RX-3 ended the GT-R's winning streak. The GT-R was also a favorite of reckless street racers who roamed the streets at night at that time.

It is claimed that the art of drifting began among Japanese racers when they purposely engaged their emergency brakes as a way to counter understeer on their GT-Rs.^{[citation needed]} One such driver who is famous for this was Kunimitsu Takahashi.

Models:

• 1500 - 1.5 L G15 I4, 95 hp (71 kW, 128 Nm)
• 1800 - 1.8 L G18 I4, 105 hp (78 kW, 150 Nm)
• 2000GT - 2.0 L L20 I6, 120 hp (90 kW, 167 Nm)
• 2000GT-R - 2.0 L S20 I6, 160 hp (118 kW, 180 Nm)

[edit] C110

The C110 generation was produced from 1972 through 1977.

For export in the 1970s, the C110 and GC110 Skyline was sold as the Datsun K-series, with models such as the Datsun 160K, 180K and 240K.

The body styles were, once again, four-door sedan, two-door hardtop coupé, and five-door station wagon. The C110 was more fussy in its styling than its predecessor. This was the first version to feature the round rear lights typical of later Skyline designs.

The C110 Skyline was better known as the "Ken & Mary" or "Kenmeri" (ケンメリ) Skyline, stemming from the advertisement campaign in Japan at the time which featured a young couple (Ken and Mary) who relaxed and enjoyed the countryside in Ken and Mary's Skyline (ケンとメリーのスカイライン). The ads were highly successful and perhaps as a result the C110 was a sold in very large numbers in Japan. It sold just as well in Australia, though few survive today. There, the 240K was about the same price as a Ford Falcon GT or BMW 5 series, around $5000.

[edit] GT-R

The Nissan Skyline GT-R hardtop arrived in September 1972 but only lasted until March 1973, when Nissan ceased production. The oil crisis saw many people preferring economy cars and high-performance sports cars were looked down upon. Nissan pulled out of Motor Racing, so there was no purpose to the GT-R. It was not officially exported anywhere, although Nissan contemplated exporting to Australia. Only 197 KPGC110 GT-Rs were ever sold in Japan, through specialist Nissan Performance shops (before it was called NISMO). This was the last GT-R for 16 years until the BNR32 in 1989.

Models:

• 1600GT - 1.6 L G16 I4
• 1800GT - 1.8 L G18 I4
• 2000GT-X - 2.0 L L20 I6, 130 hp (96 kW, 172 Nm)
• 2000GT-R - 2.0 L S20 I6, 160 hp (118 kW, 180 Nm)

[edit] C211

C211 2000 GT-E Skyline

The succeeding C211 and GC211 of 1977 continued to split the Skyline range into basic and six-cylinder models, the latter with a longer front end. This line continued through 1981. The Datsun 240K/280K and 240C/280C variants continued for export.

A rare variant would be the wagon version, which had a unique styling treatment behind the rear doors, of a much smaller window than usual between the C and D pillars.

The GT-ES replaced the GT-R with a turbocharged engine, the L20ET. This was the first turbo engine to power a Japanese production vehicle. One notable aspect of the turbo versions was that they were not intercooled and there was no form of blowoff valve, only an emergency pressure release valve.

C211 2000 GT-E Skyline

Models:

• 1600TI - 1.6 L L16 I4, 95 hp (71 kW, 132 Nm)
• 1800TI - 1.8 L L18 I4, 115 hp (86 kW, 152 Nm)
• 2000GT - 2.0 L L20 I4, 130 hp (97 kW, 167 Nm)
• 2000GT-EX - 2.0 L L20ET turbo I4, 145 hp (108 kW, 206 Nm)

[edit] R30

R30 doing a burnout.

R30 rear.

R30 hatchback.

The names were brought into line with the home Japanese and worldwide markets with the launch of the R30 series in August 1981, which was built on a C31 Laurel platform. Unlike preceding generations, four and six cylinder versions now shared a front end of same length. The R30 was available as a two door hardtop coupe, a four door sedan, a four door hatchback or a four door station wagon. In all, there were 26 variations of the R30 Skyline available.

All versions with the exception of the wagon were usually fitted with the four round tail lights that had become a regular feature to the Skyline's design. The wagon was the ugly duckling of the range, having different tail lights, headlights and no turbo or 6-cylinder versions available - it more closely resembled a Nissan Sunny than a Skyline. The two door coupe had pillarless doors and the unusual feature of roll-down quarter windows for the rear seat passengers (a styling feature of the previous C10, C110 and C211 coupes), while four door versions all had traditional framed windows.

Notably, configurations of the R30 sold in Australia and New Zealand were missing the traditional hotplate tail lights, instead opting for more conventional styling.

Various engine configurations were available, initially ranging from the top of the line 103 kW SOHC 6-cylinder turbo L20ET to the 4-cylinder Z18S and 6-cylinder RD28 diesel versions at the other end of the scale. The all-new 16-valve DOHC FJ20 engine debuted in late 1981, and was the first 4-cylinder engine by any Japanese manufacturer to employ more than two valves per cylinder (see below). Some of the top spec models featured adjustable suspension dampers that could be adjusted while driving, this was another first for mass produced JDM vehicles. Nissan Glorias and Laurels also used the L series engines as well as some diesel (Laurel only) variants.

Paul Newman Version bonnet decal.

The R30 range was facelifted in August 1983 with various changes across the board; for example four wheel disc brakes were now standard issue, instead of being optional for lower-spec models. Trim specifications were revised and the 4-cylinder Z18S engine was replaced with the newer CA18E. Upgraded interior trim, new front and rear bumpers, door-mounted wing mirrors (replacing the old 'hockey stick' fender mirrors) and smoked tail lights rounded out the look.

Also that year the Paul Newman Version R30 was released to commemorate the association between Nissan and the actor Paul Newman, who used to appear in promotional material as well as race for the company in the late 1970s - early 1980s. The Newman Skyline was simply a top spec GT-ES turbo with signature embroidery and decals, and is still sought after today amongst collectors in Japan.

[edit] RS

1983 DR30 Skyline RS-X Turbo coupe, side view

Although making about the same power as the L20ET-powered GT-ES models, the version of the Skyline initially known as the 2000RS was released in October 1981 as more of a stripped-down lightweight racer, without as many luxury extras included (quoted kerb weight was only 1130kg). These were equipped with the naturally aspirated 4-valve per cylinder DOHC FJ20E engine generating 110 kW @ 6000rpm and 181 Nm @ 4800rpm. The official Nissan chassis designation for all FJ20-powered models was DR30.

In February 1983 the DR30 range received a significant boost in performance with the introduction of the turbocharged FJ20ET engine in the 2000RS Turbo. Front brakes were also significantly upgraded to cope with the power increase. Now with 140 kW @ 6400rpm and 225 Nm @ 4800rpm on tap, the FJ20ET enjoyed new-found prestige as the most powerful Japanese production engine of its era.

DR30 facelift Iron Mask front

Nissan sought to elevate the status of the DR30 Skyline as their new flagship model in light of this success, and it received a generous amount of changes to distinguish it from lesser Skyline models in August 1983. Interior equipment was significantly upgraded to now include electric windows, air conditioning and power steering as standard; gone were the days of the spartan, stripped-out race interior with the increased kerb weight of around 1250kg. But by far the most striking change to the RS was the new unique front end treatment, nicknamed Tekamen (鉄仮面) or Iron Mask by fans for its distinctive look. The headlights were considerably slimmer, and instead of a conventional grille the bonnet now sloped down to two narrow slits above a facelifted front bumper and airdam.^[2] Turbocharged FJ20ET models were renamed RS-X Turbo while the N/A FJ20E model retained the RS moniker. The 2000 prefix was dropped.

Further changes were made in 1984, most notably the addition of an intercooler, revised compression ratios and turbocharger exhaust housing to the FJ20ET powered model, now known as the RS-X Turbo C and increasing output to 151kW @ 6400rpm and 245Nm @ 4400rpm.

To this day the FJ20-powered R30 Skyline remains a cult car both at home and overseas (there are still dedicated "one make" drag racing events for this model in Japan), and is credited with rejuvenating the Skyline brand in the early 1980s. It also paved the way for the eventual re-introduction of the legendary GT-R badge, markedly absent since the end of C110 Skyline production in 1973.

The RS achieved moderate success in Australia in the mid-1980s, with drivers such as George Fury competing in (and winning) various touring car championships during that time.

Models: (Japan)

• 1800TI - 1.8 L Z18S SOHC I4, 105 hp (77 kW), later models 1.8 L CA18S SOHC I4, 105 hp (77 kW)
• 2000TI - 2.0 L Z20E SOHC I4
• 280D GT - 2.8 L LD28 SOHC I6 Diesel
• 2000GT and Passage - 2.0 L L20E SOHC I6
• 2000GT Turbo, Passage and Paul Newman Version - 2.0 L L20ET turbo I6, 140 hp (103 kW, 206 Nm)
• RS - 2.0 L FJ20E DOHC I4, 150 hp (112 kW, 181 Nm)
• RS-X and RS-X Turbo C - 2.0 L FJ20ET DOHC turbo I4, 190 to 205 hp (140 to 151 kW, 225 to 245 Nm)

[edit] R31

The R31 Skyline of 1986 was a natural evolution on the R30 shape. The design was slightly larger and squarer than previous Skylines. It was available as a Sedan, Hardtop sedan, Coupe and station wagon.

The R31 Skyline introduced many new technologies and features. The HR31 was the first Skyline to be equipped with the new RB-series of engines. The R31 RB engines are often referred to as "Red Top" engines because of the red cam covers. There were three variants. The earliest series of DOHC RB engines used the NICS (Nissan Induction Control System) injection system with 12 very small intake runners, and a butterfly system to divide the intake ports in half for better low RPM performance. Later versions used ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) engine management, discarded the twelve tiny runners for six much larger ones (though they retained twelve ports on the head, so there was a splitter plate), and received a slightly larger turbocharger. Nissan's RD28, a 2.8 straight-6 engine, introduced Diesel-power to the line-up. Another technological first for the R31 was the introduction of Nissan's proprietary 4-wheel steering system, dubbed HICAS (High Capacity Active Steering). The R31 series were also the only models in the Skyline family to feature a 4-door hardtop variation. These models were generally badged as the Passage GT.

The R31 Skyline was also produced in Australia, with a 3.0 L motor (RB30E) available in sedan or wagon form, as well as a four-cylinder version called the Nissan Pintara. The wagon had the same front style as the coupe and sedan—the only difference being that it lacked the four round brake lights that had been a consistent element of Skyline design. These cars were manufactured in Australia due to the heavy import laws which made it expensive to bring cars into Australia.

29,305 R31 Skylines were also manufactured and sold in South Africa in 4-door sedan form between 1987 and 1992. These were the last Skylines seen in South Africa. Power came from either the RB30E 3.0 straight-6 motor, RB20E 2.0 straight-6 motor or the CA20S 4-cylinder powerplant.

[edit] GTS-R

The ultimate version of the R31 was the RB20DET-R powered HR31 GTS-R Coupe (800 units built). It had a reworked version of the normal RB20DET with a much larger turbocharger on a stainless steel exhaust manifold, as well as a much larger front mounted intercooler boosting power to 210 ps (154 kW), with racing versions making 460 hp in Group A trim.

Models: 'Japan'

• 1800I - 1.8 L CA18(i) SOHC I4, 100 hp (75 kW)
• Passage GT-D - 2.8 L Diesel RD28 SOHC I6, 92 hp (68 kW, 173 Nm)
• Passage GT - 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (114 kW)
• Passage GT Turbo - 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 180 hp (133 kW, 225 Nm)
• GTS - 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (114 kW)
• GTS Turbo - 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC I6, 180 hp (133 kW, 225 Nm)
• GTS-X - 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 190 hp (141 kW, 240 Nm)
• GTS-R - 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (154 kW, 245 Nm)
• GTS Autech - 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (154 kW, 245 Nm)

'Australia'

• Pintara - 2.0 L CA20E I4, 102 hp (78 kW, 160 Nm)
• GX, Executive, GXE, Silhouette, Ti - 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 155 hp (114 kW, 247 Nm)
• GTS1 - 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 176 hp (130 kW, 255 Nm)
• GTS2 - 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 190 hp (140 kW, 270 Nm)

'South Africa'

• 2.0GL, 2.0GLE - 2.0 L CA20S I4, 106 hp (78 kW, 163 Nm)
• 2.0SGLi - 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 115 hp (85 kW, 174 Nm)
• 3.0SGLi - 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 171 hp (126 kW, 260 Nm)

[edit] R32

R32 Skyline.

R32 Skyline.

The HR32 Skyline debuted in May 1989. It was available as either a hardtop 2-door or 4-door sedan/saloon. It featured several versions of the RB-series straight-6 engines, which had improved heads (the twelve port inlet was gone) and used the ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) injection system. Also available were an 1800 cc 4 cylinder GXi model. Most models had HICAS four wheel steering, with the rear wheels being hydraulically linked to the front steering. The 2.5 litre version became one of the first cars made in Japan to feature a 5 speed automatic transmission. All 2 litre turbo and non turbo versions with automatic transmissions were 4 speed.

R32 Models:

• GXi Type-X - 1.8 L CA18i I4, 91 hp (67 kW)
• GTE Type-X - 2.0 L RB20E I6, 125 hp (93 kW, 172 Nm)
• GTS Type-X, S, J - 2.0 L RB20DE I6 155 hp (115 kW, 184 Nm)
• GTS-25 Type-X, S, XG - 2.5 L RB25DE I6, 180 hp (132 kW, 231 Nm)
• GTS-t Type-M - 2.0 L RB20DET turbo I6, 212 hp (158 kW, 263 Nm)
• GTS-4 - 2.0 L RB20DET turbo I6, 212 hp (158 kW, 263 Nm) 4WD
• GT-R - 2.6 L RB26DETT twin-turbo I6, 280 hp (206 kW, 368 Nm) 4WD also NISMO, V-Spec and V-Spec II variants.

Also based on the Skyline platform were the A31 Cefiro and C33 Laurel. All 3 cars are very popular in Japan (and other countries to which they are imported secondhand) for drifting. In Japan, the CA18i engine in the GXi is sometimes swapped for an SR20DET (4 cylinder turbo), resulting in a lighter and better-balanced car than the factory six-cylinder turbo models.

[edit] GT-R

The GT-R returned with twin ceramic turbochargers, all-wheel steering, all wheel drive, and 280 hp (206 kW) at 6800 rpm. The RB26DETT engine actually produced ~320 hp, but it was unstated due to the Japanese car makers' "gentlemen's agreement" not to exceed 206 kW (276 hp). The engine was designed for ~500 hp in racing trim^[3] , and then muzzled by the exhaust, boost restriction, and ECU. The electronic boost control had a small physical restriction in the control lines. It was marked in yellow so the new owner could remove it and enjoy a safe factory boost increase.^[4] The GT-R had Super HICAS, a more advanced computer controlled four wheel steering system using electric actuators.

The GT-R had a much larger intercooler, larger brakes, and aluminum front guards and bonnet. Other distinguishing features include flared front and rear wheel arches. More supportive seats were fitted, and the turbo boost gauge and digital clock were removed from inside the instrument cluster. The clock was replaced with a torque meter that indicated how much torque was being delivered to the front wheels (0%-50%). Oil temp, voltage and turbo boost gauges were fitted below the climate control.

The Porsche 959 was Nissan's target when designing the GT-R. The chief engineer, Naganori Itoh, intended to use the car for Group A racing, so the design specification was drawn up in conjunction with a copy of the Group A rules. The Nordschleife production car record at the time of development was 8'45" - set by a Porsche 944. Nissan test driver Hiroyoshi Katoh reset the record with a time of 8'20".^[5] Best Motoring managed 8'22"38.^[6]

This model soon earned the name Godzilla, for its track performance. The R32 GT-R dominated JTCC, winning 29 races from 29 starts, taking the series title every year from 1989-1993.^[7] It took 50 races from 50 starts from 1991-1997 (latterly R33) in the N1 Super Taikyu. The R32 GT-R was introduced in the Australian Bathurst 1000 touring-car race to compete against Holden and Ford V8 saloons, winning in 1991 & 1992. However, the GT-R's success sounded the death knell of Group A Touring Car racing; with the formula being scrapped soon after. JTCC was similarly blighted by the R32 GT-R, and splintered soon after, leading to the switch to the Supertouring category and also indirectly to the GT500 category of today.

When originally designed, the homologation rulebook mandated 16" wheels, so that's what the GT-R got. This limited the size of the brakes, and the Nissan four pots weren't really up to competition use. A later change in rules allowed 17" wheels, so in February 1993 the GT-R V-spec (for Victory) emerged wearing 17" BBS mesh wheels covering larger Brembo brakes. The clutch actuation changed from a push to a pull system, and the car received an active rear differential. A year later the V-Spec II appeared with a new sticker and wider tyres.^[8]

[edit] R33

R33 Skyline GTST Series 2 coupe

R33 Skyline GTS25t four door (rear).

R33 Skyline interior.

The R33 Skyline was introduced in August 1993. Slightly heavier than the R32, and available as a 2 and 4 door, all models now used a 6-cylinder engine. Nissan took the unusual step of down grading the GTS model to have only the RB20E, while the twin-cam of the R32 GTS was discontinued along with the 2.0 L turbo RB20DET. As with the R32, all auto transmissions on the 2.5 litre non turbo models were 5 speed, all 2 litre and turbo 2.5 litre automatic models were equipped with a 4 speed auto transmission.

Some models came equipped with a new version of the HICAS 4-wheel steering system called Super HICAS. This computer controlled system was first used on the R32 GTR. Super HICAS used electric actuators to steer the rear, as opposed to the hydraulic HICAS.

As an option, an active limited slip differential was available instead of the standard viscous LSD. This new unit locked the rear differential if it detected that traction was lost by one of the wheels. A light on the dash also lit up if the LSD engaged. Active LSD came standard on all V-spec R33 GT-R Skylines.

The RB25DE and RB25DET engines also became equipped with NVCS (variable inlet cam phasing). NVCS equipped RBs have a bulge on the front of the cam cover. To celebrate their 40th anniversary, Nissan introduced a very rare 4 door GT-R. Two versions of the 4-door GT-R were available from Nissan's subsidiaries: the first was produced by Autech, and the second was a joint Autech/Nismo project.

A R33 based wagon was released in September 1996, called the Stagea. It had a different body style than the R33 and R34 and (with the exception of the RS FOUR & Autech variants) was only available with an automatic transmission. A common modification on the Stagea is to fit it with an R34 skyline front, in effect making a 4 door R34 wagon. The Stagea is the only four wheel drive manual transmission Nissan on the R33 platform with the RB25DET engine. Presumably, a 5 speed 4WD Skyline equipped with an RB25DET would have been too close in performance to the much more expensive GT-R. There was also an Autech Stagea, the 260RS released with full GT-R running gear, the RB26DETT engine, body kit, 17" BBS style alloys, GT-R instrumentation, and manual transmission.^[9]

R33 models:

• HR33 GTS - 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 130 PS (96 kW, 172 Nm)
• ER33 GTS25 - 2.5 L RB25DE DOHC I6, 190 PS (140 kW, 231 Nm)
• ENR33 GTS-4 - 2.5 L RB25DE DOHC I6, 190 PS (140 kW, 231 Nm) 4WD
• ECR33 GTS25T - 2.5 L RB25DET DOHC turbo I6, 250 PS (184 kW, 294 Nm)

[edit] 1996

The R33 Skyline (Series 2) continued the concepts introduced in the R32. Drivers airbags became standard in 1996 as they had been only an option up until this time, passenger side airbags remained an option. The ignition system was also changed, with the ignition module no longer located on the cam covers and was instead replaced by improved ignition coils and ECU. The turbo was also given a nylon compressor wheel. Throughout the time the R33 was produced there were quite a number of different styled lights and bodykits fitted, the actual body/chassis underwent no changes. Among the cosmetic changes in the series 2 were, the headlights which tapered down more towards the grill and were fitted with improved reflectors, the grill (which was longer on the Series 1), the bonnet which had a re-shaped leading edge to fit the new lights and front bumper changing shape in the smallest amount to match the lower edge of the new headlights. The R33 ceased production in March 1998 with the 40th Anniversary R33 SII.

[edit] GT-R

The BCNR33 GT-R version also had the same RB26DETT engine that the BNR32 was equipped with, although torque had been improved, due to changes in the turbo compressor aerodynamics, turbo dump pipe, and intercooler. The turbo core changed from a sleeve bearing to a ball bearing, but the turbine itself remained ceramic, except on N1 turbos (steel turbine, sleeve bearing). From the R33 onward, all GT-Rs received Brembo brakes. 1995 saw the GT-R get an improved version of the RB26DETT, the ATTESA-ETS all wheel drive system, and Super HICAS all-wheel steering. A limited edition model was created in 1996, called the NISMO 400R, that produced 400 hp (298 kW). An R33 GT-R driven by Dirk Schoysman lapped the Nordschleife in less than 8 minutes. Though it was often said to be the first production car to break 8 minutes, the limited run Jaguar XJ220 had already achieved a 7'46" lap. ^[10] Other manufacturers had caught up since the R32 was released, and the R33 never dominated motorsport to the extent of the R32.

• BCNR33 GT-R - 2.6 L RB26DETT DOHC twin-turbo I6, 305 PS (224 kW, 375 Nm) (advertised as 280 PS) 4WD
• GT-R LM - 2.6 L RB26DETT DOHC twin-turbo I6, 305 PS (224 kW) FR
• 400R - 2.8 L RBX-GT2 DOHC twin-turbo I6, 400 PS (294 kW, 478 Nm) 4WD

[edit] R34

A R34 Skyline 25GT-t coupe

In May 1998 the HR/ER/ENR34 addressed many of the concerns over the change from the R32 to the R33, with more emphasis on sportiness, and marked the introduction of the more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly RB25DET NEO engine. The RB20E engine was discontinued in the R34 base model (GT), and the RB20DE after last being used in the R32 Skyline, was reintroduced in updated NEO guise. The R34 GT powered by the RB20DE NEO, coupled with a 5 speed gearbox, became the most fuel efficient straight six Skyline to date (of any shape). The 5 speed automatic transmission available on some models in the previous 2 shapes was discontinued. In its place Nissan produced a 4 speed tiptronic transmission for all of the automatic versions.

Models:

• R34GT - 2.0 L RB20DE NEO I6, 140 hp (103 kW)
• 25GT/25GT-X/25GT-V - 2.5 L RB25DE NEO I6, 193 hp (142 kW)
• GT-FOUR - 2.5 L RB25DE NEO I6, 193 hp (142 kW) 4WD
• 25GT-t - 2.5 L RB25DET NEO turbo I6, 280 hp (206 kW, 343 Nm)

[edit] GT-R

Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R (front and rear).

Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R M-Spec Nür.

The GT-R reappeared in 1999, with a revised chassis and other updates. The stronger block from the R33 N1 GT-R was used on all R34 GT-Rs. The standard R34 GT-R turbos changed to a steel turbine. The R34 N1 turbos received a ball bearing core. Both had a higher compressor A/R ratio. A heavier stronger six speed Getrag gearbox was used. The head casting and the camshafts were significantly revised, and incompatible with earlier RB26DETTs. The dump pipe and intercooler were also improved.

Models:

• GT-R - 2.6 L RB26DETT twin-turbo I6, 332 PS (244 kW, 392 Nm) (advertised as 280 PS)
• GT-R V-Spec - Additional aero parts, brake ventilation ducts, diffuser.
• GT-R V-Spec II - As above + carbon fibre bonnet with NACA duct.
• GT-R N1 - Blueprinted N1 motor, no A/C, no stereo, no rear wiper, basic interior trim. (only 45 made.)
• GT-R M-Spec - Leather interior, softer suspension with "Ripple Control" dampers, heated seats.
• GT-R V-Spec II Nür - As above V-Spec II + N1 motor, 300 km/h speedo. (only 750 made.)
• GT-R M-Spec Nür - As above M-Spec + N1 motor, 300 km/h speedo. (only 250 made.)
• GT-R Z-tune - 2.8 L RB26DETT Z2 twin-turbo I6, 500 PS (368 kW, 540 Nm) Z1 and Z2 (Nismo variant)(Only 20 Made)
• GT-R R-tune (Nismo variant)

[edit] V35

2002 Skyline 300GT V35

The 11th generation (V35) Nissan Skyline, introduced in June 2001, is based on Nissan's FM platform, which is shared with the 350Z. The Nissan Skyline uses a front-midship engine (VQ35DE), rear-wheel drive layout (all-wheel drive is available for the sedan) to achieve a 52%/48% weight distribution. The V35 also marks the first generation of Skyline made for export to the United States. There it is sold under the company's luxury brand, Infiniti, as the Infiniti G35.

The V35 marks a major turning point for the Skyline. There is no straight 6, no turbo variant, and to date no GT-R variant. Nissan put a slightly more powerful VQ35DE in the 350Z, and although the Skyline & the 350Z share the same platform, the 350Z has additional bracing, underbody aero parts, and weighs 100 kg less.^[11] Keiichi Tsuchiya said of the V35 "This is a Cefiro!". Most Japanese tuners have studiously ignored the V35 Skyline, the 2006 Tsukuba Super Lap Battle had not a single V35 entrant.^[12] Tuners such as Mines, Amuse, Hosaka, Garage Defend, M Speed, Nagisa, MCR, HKS, & Top Secret continue developing R32-R34 GT-Rs. Top Secret did tune a V35, but they replaced the VQ35DE with a VK45DE V8 Twin Turbo.^[13] Signal USA entered a V35 in Formula D, replacing the VQ35DE with an SR20DET.^[14] In contrast, US shops such as VRT have had success with forced induction VQ35DEs as seen in their track footage. Sites such as 6mt.net, G35Frenzy.com, and G35Driver.com have increased the popularity of tuned V35s.

Models:

• 250GT - 2.5 L VQ25DD V6, 215 hp (158 kW, 270 Nm)
• 250GT Four - 2.5 L VQ25DD V6, 215 hp (158 kW, 270 Nm) 4WD
• 300GT - 3.0 L VQ30DD V6, 260 hp (191 kW, 324 Nm)
• 350GT-8 - 3.5 L VQ35DE V6, 272 hp (200 kW, 353 Nm)
• 350GT Coupe - 3.5 L VQ35DE V6, 280 hp (206 kW, 363 Nm)

[edit] V36

The 12th generation Skyline appeared on 20 November 2006.^[15]

At this stage it is only available as a 4-door saloon in Japan and is also sold in the USA as the 2007 Infiniti G35. It is equipped with either a VQ25HR 2.5l V6 producing 165 kW or an VQ35HR 3.5l V6 with 232 kW (HR is the designation of the 4th generation series and stands for High Response and High Revolution). The 2.5l is available as a 4-wheel drive variant as well.

Models:

Japan:

• 250GT - 2.5 L VQ25HR V6, 220 hp (165 kW, 263 Nm)
• 250GT FOUR - 2.5 L VQ25HR V6, 220 hp (165 kW, 263 Nm) 4WD
• 350GT - 3.5 L VQ35HR V6, 310 hp (232 kW, 358 Nm)

USA:

• G35 - 3.5 L V6, 306 hp
• G35 Journey - 3.5 L V6, 306 hp
• G35x AWD - 3.5 L V6, 306 hp 4WD
• G35 Sport - 3.5 L V6, 306 hp
• G35 Sport 6MT - 3.5 L V6, 306 hp

[edit] The next generation

GT-R PROTO
2005 Tokyo Motor Show)

During the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan showed the Nissan GT-R Proto (with the Skyline moniker noticeably absent) showing the design direction for a future GT-R. In 2003 then Nissan president Carlos Ghosn announced that Nissan would release the new GT-R, probably as a 2007 model and would do so all over the world and not just in Japan and select right-hand drive markets (Britain and New Zealand). Meanwhile, in tracks around the world, most notably the Nürburgring, development mules disguised as V35 Skylines have been seen running tests. At the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan unveiled the GT-R PROTO, a prototype version of the 2007 GT-R. It is reported that the next GT-R will be a purebred sports car not based on a sedan chassis like the previous models. The next GT-R has been confirmed for release at the end of 2007 with a 3.6 L twin turbo VQ based engine generating 450 hp.^{[citation needed]} Pricing may start at 7.5 million yen. The next GT-R's suspension and engine is being tuned by Lotus and Cosworth respectively, the former at their development center in England.^{[citation needed]} Some of the current prototypes have a Skyline badge, Nissan says local distributors can decide whether or not the car will be a Skyline for their market, but all will wear the GT-R badge. ^[16]

[edit] The future in the United States

In New York on April 12th 2006 President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Carlos Ghosn announced that the next generation GT-R performance car will be available in North America and will be badged as a Nissan (and not Infiniti as previously thought) consistent with Nissan's aim of the GTR brand being global. The car is expected to go on sale in the USA in 2008 - with estimated price tag of $65,000 (USD).

As a precursor to the introduction of the GT-R in the United States, privateer Igor Sushko has announced plans of racing the R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R (Z-tune model)in the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge. This will mark the first time the Nissan Skyline GT-R will compete in a professional road race series in North America.

[edit] Video games

Since the SNES game Zero 4 Champ R, the Skyline has appeared in numerous Video Games. Some of the games include:

• Auto Modellista
• Enthusia Professional Racing
• Forza Motorsport, FM2
• GT64 (Nissan Skyline R33)
• Project Gotham Racing, PGR2, PGR3
• The Getaway
• Gran Turismo series
• Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Its called an "Elegy" in game.
• Initial D Arcade Stage (Kawai from the team "Seven Star Leaf" uses the ER34 variant and Nakazato of team "Night Kids" uses the R32, however all stock models for the car, excluding the R33, are available)
• Juiced
• Metropolis Street Racer (Skyline GT-R R34)
• Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition / Remix
• Need for Speed video game series.
• Rallisport Challenge {Skyline GT-R R34)
• R:Racing Evolution (The Calsonic Skyline is a useable car in two of the stages}
• Sega GT (Nismo tuned GT-R 34 & R32, V-Spec R33, Pennzoil Nismo R34), Sega GT Online
• Street Racing Syndicate
• Street Supremacy The Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 and R34 GT-R M-Spec-Nur.
• Test Drive Unlimited (Xbox360 Launch Pack download - R34 GT-R, 300 bhp, 393 bhp when Stage 3'd)
• TOCA Race Driver 2 (R34 GT-R)
• Tokyo Xtreme Racer series (lots of coupe/sedan/GT-R grades from the 70's up to 00's)
• Wangan Midnight Maximum Tune (Reina Akikawa uses both a Black and White GT-R R32 in the game, and is one of the "Special Time Attack Cars." Several other characters use variants of the Skyline.)

[edit] Television and films

The R33 appeared in The Fast And The Furious, Also, the R34 GT-R appeared in the sequel 2 Fast 2 Furious and a silver R33 with blue stripes appear in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. There are also a couple of R34's parked in the carpark where the first drift scene happened. In addition a blue R34 GT-R passes the Veilside RX-7 only to be outpaced by the RX-7 once the NOS is engaged. The Mustang used in the final drift battle also had a RB26DET (R34 GT-R engine, modified as a single turbo setup) in it. Hong Kong movie Infernal Affairs ("Wu jian dao" in mandarin) (2002), Chinese Sitcom Armed Reaction III (R32 GT-R Driven by Moses Chen) (2001), the Jackie Chan movie Thunderbolt, and in the Japanese anime Initial D (1998-2006) ( Nakazto {Team Night Kids} drives a R32 Skyline GT-R, Kawai {The Seven Star Leaf's leader} drives an ER34 Skyline, and Racing legend Hoshino Kouzou {Team Purple Shadow} drives a R34 V-Spec II Nür}. A white GT-R R33 (with kit) appears on the Korean blockbuster, SF/Action feature, 2009 Lost Memories as well as the Australian made film Redline.One of Its latest appearences is in the Australian Drama series Dangerous

The Skyline have all in progressive generations from the R30 RS-X through the R31 GTS-R to the R33 GT-R have appeared in the controversial Shuto Kousoku Trial series. They also appear in Toyko Extreme Racer videogames. A recent sighting of an R34 GTT was in the British TV show Spooks where the car appeared in the first 2 episodes of season 4. A red R32 GT-R can be seen pursued by two Lancer Evolution III before stopping and being rammed by one of them in One Nite In Mongkok (2004). A Nissan Skyline R34 is shown in the UK movie " Stormbreaker" as the main character(Alex Rider) is pursuing a whitevan, a yellow R34 is shown swerving out of the direction of Alex.

The Skyline is also featured in all of the Gran Turismo console games and Test Drive series.

[edit] Importation to North America

[edit] United States

There has been significant demand for imported Skylines in the United States, but because Nissan does not officially import the car to the American market, the process is difficult and expensive. Actor Paul Walker, who starred in Fast And The Furious and its sequel, owns one that reportedly cost around US$110,000 to import from Japan. Infiniti has been selling a Left-hand-drive version of the V35 Skyline 350GT in the US. They have badged it as the Infiniti G35. It is sold as a Coupe or a Sedan, and it shares the chassis and engine with the 350Z. The G35x even shares the ATTESA E-TS 4WD system with the R32 and certain R33 G-TR.

In 1999, a California company, Motorex, sacrificed a small number of R33 GTS25s for the purpose of crash testing. They submitted their information to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and petitioned them to allow 1990-1999 GT-Rs and GTSs to be imported, at the condition that they were modified to meet federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Many Skylines were subsequently imported through Motorex. This lasted until late 2005, when the NHTSA became informed that not all 1990 through 1999 Skyline models would perform identically in crash testing. Motorex had submitted information for only the R33, and told the NHTSA that it was sufficient for all R32, R33, and R34 models. According the further review by the NHTSA, only 1996-1998 R33 models have been demonstrated as capable of being modified to meet the federal motor vehicle safety standards. After that, only these 1996-1998 models are eligible for importation. In March of 2006, Motorex ceased all imports and Motorex principal Hiroaki "Hiro" Nanahoshi was arrested and held on $1 million bail on financial, kidnapping, and assault charges.^[17][18]

Nanahoshi and Hiroki Miyake are co-defendants in case no. TA08356, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Both Nanahoshi and Miyake have been held to answer for charges of attempted kidnapping, assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury, assault with a stun gun, and threatening a witness. In addition, Nanahoshi is facing civil lawsuits from GT-R and would-be GT-R owners and jail time over unrelated charges not associated with Motorex. Motorex is reportedly an empty space with a lone wrecked GT-R shell on site.^[19]

[edit] Canada

In Canada, GT-R enthusiasts are importing them somewhat more easily. Canadian law allows for vehicles over 15 years old to be imported freely, without extensive modification. The first R32 GT-R made its way into Canada in August 2004 (as the first R32 GT-R was made in August 1989). Since then, private buyers have been able to import 1990 models, 1991 models in 2006, and 1992 models in 2007 (present). This law has also yielded entry to other JDM models, such as the Nissan Silvia, Mazda RX-7, Mazda Cosmo, Keicars^[20] and other desirable (and otherwise unattainable) vehicles.

[edit] External links

Skyline Car Clubs

• Skylines Downunder - New Zealand based car club which has been around since 1999.
• Skylines Australia - One of the largest Nissan Skyline clubs in the world.
• Skyline Owners Forum - A popular Nissan Skyline Forum based in the UK (with members throughout the world)
• GTROC UK - The GT-R Owners Club (GTROC), the UK's officially endorsed Nissan Skyline club.
• Southern Skyline Enthusiasts - Car club for owners of all cars with RB engines and Skyline fanatics.
• GTR Canada - Canadian Skyline Club.

Informative Skyline Websites

• Official Skyline GT-R Z-tune website
• Nissan Skyline Information - Specifications of all the latest models of the Nissan Skyline.
• Nissan Skyline & Infiniti G35 Resource
• "Driving the Nissan Skyline GT-R Z-tune", Peter Lyon, edmunds.com, July 28, 2005

[edit] Notes

1. ^ Prince Skyline (Japanese). Retrieved on 2006-09-22.
2. ^ J's Tipo Magazine, June 1997 issue.
3. ^ Butler, Andy (2006). Skyline GT-R The Ultimate Japanese Supercar. Haynes, pg. 25. ISBN 1-84425-105-5. 
4. ^ Donnon, Martin et al. (2005). High Performance Imports 57. Express Motoring Publications, pg. 91. 
5. ^ Butler, Andy (2006). Skyline GT-R The Ultimate Japanese Supercar. Haynes, pg. 21-33. ISBN 1-84425-105-5. 
6. ^ Motoharu Kurosawa (Gan-San) et al. (2005). Best Motoring International, Nismo Beast Unleashed [DVD]. Zigzag Asia.
7. ^ Keiichi Tsuchiya et al. (2005). Best Motoring International, RB Japanese Muscle [DVD]. Zigzag Asia.
8. ^ Butler, Andy (2006). Skyline GT-R The Ultimate Japanese Supercar. Haynes, pg. 36. ISBN 1-84425-105-5. 
9. ^ Ellis, Ben et al. (2001). High Performance Imports 15. Express Motoring Publications, pg. 74-78. 
10. ^ Nunn, Peter (December 2006). Wheels. Australia: ACP Magazines, pg. 13. 
11. ^ Akihiko Nakaya et al. (2003). Best Motoring International, 350Z Shock [DVD]. Zigzag Asia.
12. ^ Carbonare, Dino Dalle et al. (2006). Jtuner 11. Future Publications, pg. 8-18. 
13. ^ Ellis, Ben et al. (2005). High Performance Imports 54. Express Motoring Publications, pg. 42-48. 
14. ^ Warne, Grant et al. (2005). High Performance Imports 62. Express Motoring Publications, pg. 44-48. 
15. ^ Nissan Introduces All-New Skyline. Nissan Press Release (20 November 2006). Retrieved on 2006-11-26. “Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today introduced the 12th generation Skyline, featuring all-new exterior and interior designs, the next generation FR-L platform and newly developed VQ35HR V6 engine.”
16. ^ Nunn, Peter (December 2006). Wheels. Australia: ACP Magazines, pg. 16. 
17. ^ LeftlaneNews R32, R34 Nissan Skyline imports halted
18. ^ LASD Inmate Information Center - Booking Details
19. ^ Sport Compact Car Drugs, Gangs, and GT-R's: The Dirty Story of American Skylines By Jackie Ling August 2006
20. ^ Japanoid FAQ Why import these cars?