| Manufacturer | Prince Nissan |
|---|---|
| Production | 1957–present |
| Class | Compact car (1957–1989) Sport compact (1989–2002) Compact executive car (2003–present) Mini SUV (2009–present, Crossover) |
The Nissan Skyline (スカイライン in Japanese) is a line of compact cars and compact executive cars originally produced by the Japanese premium carmaker Prince Motor Company starting in 1955 and subsequently by Nissan after the two companies merged in 1966. After the merger, the Skyline and its larger counterpart, the Nissan Gloria, were sold in Japan at dealership sales channels called Nissan Prince Shop.
It is currently available in either coupé, or sedan body styles, and are most commonly known by their round brake lights, with the station wagon bodystyle being dropped in 1989 with the introduction of the R32 platform.
Iterations R30 to R35 of the Skyline are still popular tuner cars for Japanese car enthusiasts from the 1980s to today, especially with available features such as straight-6 engines, turbochargers, and the high-performance GT-R trim.[1] While not distributed in the United States, the Skyline's prominence in video games, movies and magazines resulted in many such cars being imported there from 1999 to late 2005, after Motorex petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to allow 1990–1999 GT-Rs and GTSs to be imported, at the condition that they were modified to meet United States Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.[2][2] [3][4]
The 11th generation Skyline (V35) was another major turning point for the nameplate, as it dropped some of the Skyline's trademark characteristics such as the straight-6 engine and turbocharging, eventually separated the GT-R into its own line, and moved to V6-engined era, this decision which extended to all later Skylines. Nissan decided to retain the Skyline for the luxury-sport market, while its platform-mate, the 350Z, revived the Z line of pure sports cars.[5] The V35 was the first Skyline made for export to North America, being sold under Nissan's luxury marque Infiniti as the G35. The Skyline (V36/J50) is sold in Europe, North America, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Middle East as the Infiniti G37.
April 11, 2010 saw a world record for the biggest ever Nissan Skyline meet and the most ever officially recognized on a track in the Guinness Book of World Records. This took place at Silverstone, United Kingdom at the ISTS event.
Contents |
| Also called | Prince Skyline |
|---|---|
| Production | 1957–1963 33,759 units sold |
| Assembly | Mitaka, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 4-door delivery van 2-door coupe |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.5 L GA-30 I4 1.5 L GA-4 I4 1.9 L GB-30 I4 |
| Wheelbase | 2,535 mm (99.8 in) |
| Length | 4,280 mm (168.5 in) |
| Width | 1,675 mm (65.9 in) |
| Height | 1,535 mm (60.4 in) |
| Curb weight | ~1300 kg (~2866 lb) |
| Related | Prince Skyway Prince Gloria Prince Miler |
| Designer | Takuya Himura |
The first Skyline was introduced in April 1957,[6] by the Prince Motor Company, and was marketed as a luxury car. It featured a 1.5 L (1482 cc) GA-30 engine producing 44 kW (60 hp) @ 4400 rpm.[7] 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 a pickup truck and a delivery van called the Prince Skyway.
The Skyline was updated with quad headlights for 1958.
This model was powered by a slightly altered 1.5 L engine known as the GA-4 OHV (1484 cc) producing about 70 hp (52 kW) @ 4800 rpm and was produced through 1961.
In 1962, this model was restyled as the S21D/S series.
The Skyline Sport featured hand-built Michelotti bodies in stylish coupe and convertible versions. These cars used the 1.9 L (1862 cc/113 in³) GB-30 engine, producing 96 hp (72 kW) and 113.5 ft·lbf (154 N m). While only a few hundred were built, Prince Motors had a very aggressive product placement group and they can be seen (along the company's mainstream models) in many Toho films of the early 1960s.
| Also called | Prince Skyline |
|---|---|
| Production | 1963–1968 114,238 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.5 L G-1 OHV I4 (S50) 2.0 L G-7 OHC I6 (S54) 1.5 L G15 OHC I4 (S57) |
| Transmission | 3-speed, 4-speed and 5-speed manual 2-speed automatic called "Space Flow" |
| Wheelbase | 2,590 mm (102.0 in) |
| Length | 4,255 mm (167.5 in) |
| Width | 1,495 mm (58.9 in) |
| Height | 1,410 mm (55.5 in) |
| Related | Prince Skyway Prince Miler |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
In 1961 Fuji Precision Industries changed its name to Prince after the 1954 merger, and the S50 series was launched, which like its predecessor, came in sedan and wagon bodystyles. This was the second generation car, and became one of the more desirable cars in Japan. It was powered by the G-1 engine,[7] a 70 hp (52 kW) version of the old GA-4. A 1862 cc engine was also available, delivering 91 hp (68 kW). The S50 series were available with a 3-speed column shift transmission or a 4-speed floor shift transmission, as well as a 4-door sedan (S50) or a 5-door wagon (W50).
Three models of the S50 were built: S50E (1962–1965), S50E-2 (1965–1966), and S50E-3 (1967). All three used the same engines.
The S50 was further developed with new styling for 1963, and was sold in some markets with an A150 designation. The S50 was also sold as the A190D, which was equipped with a diesel engine.
In 1966, Nissan and Prince merged and the S50 also appeared with Nissan Prince Skyline badging. This model lasted in production through 1967. In 1967, the S50E-3 was introduced. It was sold as Prince Skyline, Prince A150, PMC A150, or Nissan A150.
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 S41, though the car needed an 8" extension to the wheelbase (all forward of the cowl/firewall) to provide space in the engine bay for the lankier in-line 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 the race vehicle, the Prince Skyline 2000GT (also called GT-A, GT-B, S54A and S54B) was released to the Japanese market. There were two versions produced:[7]
The B model featured three Weber 40DCOE-18 carburetors, a limited slip differential, 5-speed close ratio manual transmission, and power brakes. Both the B and A used front disc brakes with dual pistons and alloy finned drums in the rear.
The S50 Skyline was updated to become the S57 in 1967. It used a Prince's new engine (designed before the merger with Nissan), 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.
| Also called | Hakosuka Boxy Skyline |
|---|---|
| Production | 1968–1972 310,447 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon 2-door coupe |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.5 L G15 OHC I4 1.8 L G18 OHC I4 2.0L G-7 OHC I6 2.0 L L20 OHC I6 (2000GT) 2.0 L S20 DOHC I6 (GT-R) |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm (103.9 in) (sedan) |
| Length | 4,430 mm (174.4 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,595 mm (62.8 in) |
| Height | 1,405 mm (55.3 in) (sedan) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
The C10 series of 1968, which began its development under Prince at the company's Ogikubo R&D centre in the suburbs of Tokyo, was marketed with a Nissan badge. By the time the C10 went on sale, the Prince nameplate had been completely phased out on cars and trucks. The dealer network selling the cars became the Prince channel of Nissan, and the marketing group stayed at the Prince headquarters in Mita instead of moving to Nissan's headquarters in Ginza. The C10 Skyline was launched with Prince's 1.5 L OHC G15 I4 like the S57. A 1.8 L G18 version was also available.
A station wagon variant, known previously as the Prince Skyway, was offered with this generation. A hardtop coupé was introduced in October 1970.
In 1971, the KGC10 2000GT-X received a 2.0 L (1998 cc) L20 I6 engine instead of a Prince G-7 engine. The chassis was already designed to receive a straight six, to avoid the S54 extension problem. 120 hp (78 kW) was available from this new engine, in March 1972 Nissan introduced 4 Door Sedan GT-X.
The following year, the GC10 2000GT received a 2.0 L (1998 cc) L20 I6 engine like the Nissan Cedric instead of a Prince G-7 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, in 1970 Nissan production Skyline 2000GT Automatic, in October 1970 Nissan introduced 2 Door Coupe.
The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969.[8] 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 (which was designed by the former Prince engineers) produced 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m), and was similar to the GR8 engine used in the Prince R380 racing car.
The GT-R began as a sedan, but a 2-door coupé version was debuted in October 1970 and introduced in March 1971. The cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment to be as light as possible for racing, and 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.[8]
The C10 raced against many cars including the Toyota 1600 GT (RT55), 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.
Models:
| Also called | the "Ken and Mary" Skyline Datsun 160K Datsun 180K Datsun 240K |
|---|---|
| Production | 1972–1977 670,562 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.6 L G16 OHC I4 1.8 L G18 OHC I4 2.0 L L20B OHC I4 2.0 L L20A OHC I6 2.0 L S20 DOHC I6 (GT-R) 2.4 L L24 OHC I6 |
| Wheelbase | 2,610 mm (102.8 in) |
| Length | 4,460 mm (175.6 in) |
| Width | 1,395 mm (54.9 in) |
| Height | 1,625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
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 Datsun 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, particularly so in wagon form, where unusually for a wagon design, no windows were fitted between the C and D pillars. The C110 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 sold in very large numbers in Japan. It sold just as well in Australia (in a 2.4L 6-cylinder form, badged as "Datsun 240K") , though few survive today. There, the 240K was about the same price as a Ford Falcon GT or BMW 5 series, around $5000.
The Nissan Skyline GT-R hardtop arrived in September 1972 but only lasted until March 1973, when Nissan ceased its 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,[9] 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:
| Also called | SKYLINE JAPAN Datsun 240C Datsun 240K Datsun 280C Datsun 280K |
|---|---|
| Production | 1977–1981 539,727 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | I4 1.6 L L16T 1.8 L L18T 1.6 L Z16S 2.0 L Z20E 2.0 L LD20 Diesel I6 2.0 L L20E 2.0 L L20ET Turbo 2.4 L L24 2.4 L L24E 2.8 L LD28 Diesel |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,600 mm (181.1 in) |
| Width | 1,625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Height | 1,390 mm (54.7 in) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
The succeeding C210/211 and GC210/211 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 C211 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-EX 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.
The "T" designation on the L16T and L18T does not signify a turbocharger was included; it denotes that those engines came with twin carburetors.
Models:
| Also called | New-man SKYLINE(1983–1985) |
|---|---|
| Production | 1981–1985 406,432 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 5-door hatchback 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 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 2.4 L L24E I6 2.8 L L28E I6 2.0 L FJ20E I4 2.0 L FJ20ET I4 |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,620 mm (181.9 in) |
| Width | 1,675 mm (65.9 in) |
| Height | 1,385 mm (54.5 in) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
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 the same length. The R30 was available as a two door hardtop coupe, a four door sedan, a five door hatchback (available only in the R30 generation), 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 had 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 a hardtop, pillarless design, and featured roll-down quarter windows for the rear seat passengers (a styling feature of the previous C10, C110, and C211 coupes), while four door versions had a traditional sedan body style with 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 LD28 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.
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. Features included upgraded interior trim, new front and rear bumpers, door-mounted wing mirrors (replacing the old 'hockey stick' fender mirrors), and smoked tail lights.
During 1983 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 during the late-1970s and early-1980s. The Newman Skyline was simply a top spec GT-ES turbo with signature embroidery and decals.
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 on October 2, 1981 as more of a stripped-down lightweight racer, without as many luxury extras included (quoted curb weight was only 1,130 kg (2,500 lb)). These were equipped with the naturally aspirated 4-valve per cylinder DOHC FJ20E engine generating 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) of power at 6000 rpm and 181 N·m (133 lb·ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. 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 (190 PS; 188 hp) of power at 6400 rpm and 225 N·m (166 lb·ft) of torque at 4800 rpm on tap, the FJ20ET enjoyed new-found prestige as the most powerful Japanese production engine of its era.
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 in the new RS-X model (for Extra) with an increased curb weight of around 1,235 kg (2,723 lb); gone were the days of the spartan, stripped-out race interior, although this could still be specified at time of purchase. But by far the most striking change to the RS was the new unique front end treatment, nicknamed Tekkamen (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.[10]
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-Turbo C and increasing output to 151 kW (205 PS; 202 hp) of power at 6400 rpm and 245 N·m (181 lb·ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. An automatic transmission option was also added at this time, and changes to the "PLASMA Spark" ignition system followed in early 1985 towards the end of R30 production.
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 Australian Touring car racing in the mid-1980s with Nissan winning the 1986 Australian Manufacturers' Championship[11] and sharing victory in the 1987 Australian Manufacturers' Championship with BMW.[12]
Models: (Japan)
R31 Nissan Skyline Coupe 2000 GTS-R |
|
| Also called |
7th SKYLINE(1985–1987) Nissan Pintara (Australian 4 cylinder models). |
|---|---|
| Production | 1985–1989 309,716 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 4-door hardtop 2-door coupe 4-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.8 L CA18I I4 2.0 L CA20E I4 2.0 L RB20E I6 2.0 L RB20ET I6 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 |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,650 mm (183.1 in) |
| Width | 1,690 mm (66.5 in) |
| Height | 1,385 mm (54.5 in) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Leopard F31 Nissan Pintara |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai Naganori Ito |
The R31 Skyline of 1986 was a natural evolution on the R30 shape, and also this one was loosely based on the Laurel platform (C32). The design was slightly larger and squarer than previous Skylines. It was available as a Sedan, Hardtop sedan, Coupe and station wagon. Affectionately known as the "Seventhsu" or simply "7th Sukairain" by owners, due to it being the 7th generation Skyline.
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, featured for a diesel option. 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 (except for the R31 series one/two which had rectangular taillights with a solid bar through the centre which was also shared by the Pintara). 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.
The ultimate version of the R31 was the RB20DET-R powered HR31 GTS-R Coupe of which 800 units were built to allow homologation for Group A Touring Car racing. It had a reworked version of the normal RB20DET with a much larger turbocharger on a tubular steel exhaust manifold, as well as a much larger front mounted intercooler boosting power to a factory claimed 210 ps (154 kW), with racing versions making over 430 hp (321 kW) in Group A trim.
'Japan'
'Australia'
'South Africa'
| Also called | SKYLINE, BNR32 (1989–1991) |
|---|---|
| Production | 1989–1994 296,087 units sold GT-R's Standard-40390 Nismo-560 V-Spec-1453 V-SpecII-1303 N1-228 |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Engine | 1.8 L 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) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,580 mm (180.3 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,695 mm (66.7 in) |
| Height | 1,340 mm (52.8 in) (sedan) |
| Curb weight | 1,280 kg (2,821.9 lb) (Type-M) 1,430 kg (3,152.6 lb) (GT-R) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Cefiro |
| Designer | Naganori Ito |
The R32 Skyline debuted in May 1989. It was available as either a 2-door coupe or 4-door hardtop sedan, all other bodystyles were dropped. The R32 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 was an 1,800 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 GTS-25 became one of the first Japanese production cars to feature a 5-speed automatic transmission. The GTS-t came in standard and Type M configurations, with the Type M having larger five-stud 16 inch wheels, four piston front callipers and twin piston rears plus other minor differences. ABS was optional (except for the GT-R and GTS-4), mechanical LSD was standard on the GTR and viscous LSD was standard on all turbo models and optional on all but the GXi. Nissan also produced 100 Australian models of the R32. There was also a 4WD version of the GTS-t Type M, called the GTS-4.
Models:
The GT-R returned with twin ceramic turbochargers, all-wheel steering, electronically controlled four wheel drive, and 276 hp (206 kW) at 6800 rpm.[13] The RB26DETT engine actually produced ~320. hp, but it was unstated due to the Japanese car makers' "gentlemen's agreement" not to exceed 280 PS (276 hp). The engine was designed for ~500 hp in racing trim,[14] 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.[15] After this increase the car would put out ~310 hp (~230 kW) and could do 0–100 km/h in 4.7seconds and quarter mile in 12.8 seconds.
The GT-R had a significantly larger intercooler, larger brakes, and aluminium 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 just above 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".[16] Best Motoring managed 8'22"38.[17]
The R32 GT-R dominated Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC), winning 29 races from 29 starts, taking the series title every year from 1989 to 1993.[18] It took 50 races from 50 starts from 1991 to 1997 (latterly R33) in the N1 Super Taikyu.
The R32 GT-R was introduced in to the Australian Touring Car Championship in 1990 and promptly ended the reign of the previously all-conquering Ford Sierra Cosworth, winning Bathurst 1000 classic in 1991 and 1992. This success led to the Australian motoring press nicknaming the car Godzilla due to it being a "monster from Japan". As Australia was the first export market for the car the name quickly spread. Such was GT-R's dominance that it was a significant factor in the demise of Group A Touring Car racing, 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-inch 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-inch wheels, so in February 1993 the GT-R V-spec (for Victory) emerged wearing 17" BBS mesh wheels(225/50/17) covering larger Brembo brakes. The clutch actuation changed from a push to a pull system, the car had the standard rear differential, the electronic rear differential did not show up until the R33 Vspec. A year later the V-Spec II appeared with a new sticker and wider tires(245/45/17).[19]
| Production | 1993–1998 217,133 units sold |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Engine | 2.0 L RB20E 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) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 5-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 2,720 mm (107.1 in) |
| Length | 4,720 mm (185.8 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,720 mm (67.7 in) |
| Height | 1,360 mm (53.5 in) (sedan) |
| Curb weight | 1,390 kg (3,064.4 lb) (GTS-25t) 1,530 kg (3,373.1 lb) (GT-R) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Stagea |
| Designer | Kozo Watanabe |
The R33 Skyline was introduced in August 1993. Slightly heavier than the R32, it is available in coupe and sedan bodystyles. 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.
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 GT-R. Super HICAS used electric actuators to steer the rear, as opposed to the hydraulic HICAS. This generation was no longer considered a "compact" under Japanese legislation that determined the amount of tax liability based on exterior dimensions.
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 and was also available on some ECR33 GTS-25t models; these can be identified by the A-LSD and SLIP lights on the tachometer.
The RB25DE and RB25DET engines also became equipped with NVCS (variable inlet cam phasing). NVCS equipped RB's 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.
An 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.[20]
Models:
The R33 Skyline (Series 2) continued the concepts introduced in the R32. Driver and Passenger airbags became standard in 1996. As a result, pre-1996 models are barred from being imported into various countries for consumer road use as they do not meet the frontal impact standards. For the RB25DET engine the ignition system was also changed, with the ignition module no longer located on the cam covers and was instead replaced by smart ignition coils (Ignitor built into coil) and ECU. The RB25DET 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. Later models of the Series 2 also had the option of having an Active-LSD fitted. The R33 ceased production in March 1998 with the 40th Anniversary R33 Series 2.
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.[21] In 1995 the GT-R received an improved version of the RB26DETT, the ATTESA-ETS four wheel drive system, and Super HICAS 4-wheel steering.
A limited edition model was created in 1996, called the NISMO 400R, that produced 400 hp (298 kW) from a road-tuned version of Nissan's Le Mans engine.[22] A stronger six-speed Getrag gearbox was used.
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.[23] Other manufacturers had caught up since the R32 was released, and the R33 never dominated motorsport to the extent of the R32.
Michael Begley with the Gaijin R33 GT-R [1] currently holds the European four wheel drive 1/4 mile record with a time of 8.06 @ 173 mph. This record was set at Santa Pod raceway in England. Gaijin ("the outsider") is tuned by TR Racing in Harlow Essex UK. This R33 GT-R is said to have had in the region of 1400 bhp. The owner Mick Begley lives in the UK and is reportedly chasing a 7 second pass. The four wheel drive 1/4 mile world record was set by Reece McGregor from New Zealand in the Heat Treatments R32 GT-R, setting a best time of 7:54 @ 197 mph, overtaking the haloed HKS R33 GT-R.
In August 2010, Elitetech Automotive (based near Silverstone, UK) launched a low volume production run of the R33 GT-R but in LHD (left hand drive) format. First deliveries will be made in early 2011, with vehicles being sold to Europe and further afield. All standard equipment remains on the specification list of the zero compromise LHD version.
Models:
| Also called | Infiniti G25t (for GT-T models) |
|---|---|
| Production | 1999–2002 64,623 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Engine | 2.0 L RB20DE I6 (GT) 2.5 L RB25DE I6 (25 GT, GT-X, GT-V, GT-4) 2.5 L RB25DET I6 (GT-T) 2.6 L RB26DETT I6 (GT-R) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | 2,665 mm (104.9 in) |
| Length | 4,705 mm (185.2 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,725 mm (67.9 in) (sedan) |
| Height | 1,375 mm (54.1 in) (sedan) |
| Curb weight | 1,536 kg (3,386.3 lb) (GT-R) 1,410 kg (3,108.5 lb) (GT-T) |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Stagea Nissan GT-R |
| Designer | Kozo Watanabe |
In May 1998, after sales of the Nissan Skyline plummeted from the release of the R33 chassis the EN34, HR34, ER34 and BNR34 addressed many of the concerns over the change from the R33, with more emphasis on sportiness, and marked the introduction of the more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly RB25DET NEO engine. Also the front end was re-arranged from the R33 unattractive front end and was aimed more towards the R32 style to draw people back into the "skyline world" . 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-6 Skyline to date (of any shape). Carlos Ghosn stated on the release date of the Nissan Skyline R34 that " We hope to win people back with the old school design based around the R32 shell, due to the initial complaints corresponded with the R33 chasis and body" The 5-speed automatic transmission available on some models in the previous two shapes were discontinued. In its place, Nissan produced a 4-speed Tiptronic transmission for all of the automatic versions (Except the base 2.0L, which has a standard 5 speed gearbox). Only the GT-T coupe variant was sold in New Zealand from 2000 and it was the only country besides Japan that sold the R34 GT-T model Skylines new. The GT-T models were rebadged as Infiniti G25t for export markets. The Nissan Skyline rivals are the Toyota Supra and the Mazda RX-7.
Models:
Standard features include Limited slip differential, Xenon headlights, Rear window wiper, Driver airbag, Front passenger airbag, Anti-lock braking system, Traction control, Front seat belt pre-tensioners, Front seat belt force limiters, Rear seat lap sash belt, Child seat attachment, Side impact protection bars, Power windows, Central door locking, Steering wheel height adjust, Leather steering wheel, Alloy wheels and Ultraviolet reducing glass. Optional features include Front fog lamps, Rear fog lamps, Front spoiler, Rear spoiler, Side airbags, Navigation system, Tinted windows.
The GT-R reappeared in 1999, with a revised chassis and other updates. The R34 turbos received a ball bearing core. The R34 N1 turbos had a metal exhaust wheel, and ball bearing center section. A 6-speed Getrag gearbox was used. The turbo outlet pipes were changed from cast to formed metal outlets. The intercooler outlet side and rear turbo dump pipe had temperature probes fitted in the V-spec models.
Models: (all 4WD)
| Also called | New Generation Skyline Infiniti G35 |
|---|---|
| Production | sedan: 2001–2006 coupe: 2003–2007 |
| Assembly | Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Platform | Nissan FM platform |
| Engine | 2.5 L VQ25DD V6 3.0 L VQ30DD V6 3.5 L VQ35DE V6 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic 6-speed manual CVT Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.2 in)(coupe) 4735 mm (186.5 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.5 in) (coupe) 1750 mm (69 in) (sedan) |
| Height | 1390 mm (54.8 in) (coupe) 1465 mm (57.7 in) (sedan) |
The 11th generation (V35) Nissan Skyline, introduced in June 2001, was based on Nissan's FM platform, shared with the Nissan 350Z. The Nissan Skyline used a front-midship engine (VQ35DE), rear-wheel drive layout[25] (four wheel drive was available for the sedan) to achieve a 52%/48% weight distribution. The V35 was the first Skyline made for export to the United States. There it was sold under the company's luxury brand, Infiniti as the Infiniti G35.
The V35 broke with Skyline tradition. There was no straight-6, no turbo, and no GT-R, a decision which extended to all later Skylines. The intention had been for the model to use a different name, a decision reversed by Renault/Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.[26] who choose to gear the V35 towards the luxury-sport market. Billing the 350Z as a pure sports car, Nissan put a slightly more powerful VQ35DE in the 350Z, and while the Skyline and the 350Z shared the same platform, the 350Z had additional bracing, under-body aero parts, and weighed 100 kg less.[5]
Japanese tuners mostly ignored the V35 Skyline, the 2006 Tsukuba Super Lap Battle had not a single V35 entrant.[1] Tuners such as Mines, Amuse, Hosaka, Garage Defend, M Speed, Nagisa, MCR, HKS, & Top Secret continued developing R32-R34 GT-Rs as time attack cars. Top Secret did tune a V35, but replaced the VQ35DE with a VK45DE V8 Twin Turbo.[27] Signal USA entered a V35 in Formula D, replacing the VQ35DE with an SR20DET.[28]
Models:
| Also called | Infiniti G35 Infiniti G37 |
|---|---|
| Production | 2006– |
| Assembly | Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 2-door convertible 5-door crossover SUV |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / all-wheel drive |
| Platform | Nissan FM platform |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic 6-speed manual 7-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in (2,850 mm) |
| Length | 183.1 in (4,651 mm) (coupe) 187.0 in (4,750 mm) (sedan) 183.3 in (4,656 mm) (convertible) |
| Width | 72.9 in (1,852 mm) (convertible) 71.8 in (1,824 mm) (coupe) 69.8 in (1,773 mm) (sedan) |
| Height | Convertible 55.1 in (1,400 mm) Coupe 54.8 in (1,392 mm) (AT) 54.9 in (1,394 mm) (MT) Sedan 57.2 in (1,453 mm) (RWD) 57.8 in (1,468 mm) (xAWD sedan) & 57.6 in (1,463 mm) |
| Related | Infiniti FX Infiniti M Nissan 350Z Infiniti G37 Infiniti EX Nissan 370Z |
The 12th generation Skyline appeared on November 20, 2006.[29]
It was first available only as a 4-door sedan in Japan and was also sold in the USA as the 2007 Infiniti G35. It is equipped with either a VQ25HR 2.5 L V6 producing 165 kW or a VQ35HR 3.5 L V6 with 232 kW. The 2.5 L is available with four wheel drive as well.
On May 13, 2008, Nissan announced that a convertible variant of the Infiniti G37 (U.S. Spec Skyline coupe) will be produced for the 2009 model year.
It is a Japanese version of the Infiniti G25 sedan.
Four wheel drive is standard on 250GT FOUR models (NV36, where N stands for 4WD).
250GT Type S was introduced for 2008 model year.
17-inch wheels are standard for all model ranges, except for the 250GT Type S, which has 18-inch wheels.
It is a Japanese version of the Infiniti G35 sedan.
4-wheel active steering is available in Type S and Type SP as option.
Introduced in 2007 for the 2008 model year, it is a Japanese version of the Infiniti G37 coupe.
18-inch wheels are used on the base and 370GT Type P cars, while Type S and Type SP cars include 19-inch wheels.
Introduced in 2008 for the 2009 model year, it is a Japanese version of the Infiniti G37 sedan. It replaced the 350GT sedan.
18-inch wheels are standard for all model ranges, except for the 370GT Type P, which has 17-inch wheels.
It is an option for 250GT Type P, 350GT Type P, 350GT Type SP, 250GT FOUR Type P, commemorating 50th anniversary of Nissan Skyline.[30] The interior is marked with anniversary red leather seats, and serial numbered front glass. This package went on sale on 2008-03-31.[31]
Introduced in 2009, it is based on the Infiniti EX37. The vehicle went on sale in April 2009.[32]
Four wheel drive is standard on 370GT FOUR models. 18-inch wheels are standard for all model ranges.
| Chassis code | V36 | J50 |
|---|---|---|
| Body style | coupe, sedan | crossover |
| Model | Years | Engine Type/code | Power, torque@rpm | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250GT sedan (DBA-V36) | 2006– | 2,495 cc (2.495 L; 152.3 cu in) V6 (VQ25HR) | 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp)@6800, 263 N·m (194 lb·ft)@4800 | RWD |
| 250GT FOUR sedan (DBA-NV36) | 2006– | 2,495 cc (2.495 L; 152.3 cu in) V6 (VQ25HR) | 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp)@6800, 263 N·m (194 lb·ft)@4800 | AWD |
| 350GT sedan | 2006–2008 | 3,498 cc (3.498 L; 213.5 cu in) V6 (VQ35HR) | 315 PS (232 kW; 311 hp)@6800, 358 N·m (264 lb·ft)@4800 | RWD |
| 370GT coupe (DBA-CKV36) | 2007– | 3,696 cc (3.696 L; 225.5 cu in) V6 (VQ37VHR) | 333 PS (245 kW; 328 hp)@7000, 363 N·m (268 lb·ft)@5200 | RWD |
| 370GT sedan (DBA-KV36) | 2008– | 3,696 cc (3.696 L; 225.5 cu in) V6 (VQ37VHR) | 330 PS (240 kW; 330 hp)@7000, 361 N·m (266 lb·ft)@5200 | RWD |
| 370GT crossover (DBA-J50) | 2009– | 3,696 cc (3.696 L; 225.5 cu in) V6 (VQ37VHR) | 330 PS (240 kW; 330 hp)@7000, 361 N·m (266 lb·ft)@5200 | RWD |
| 370GT FOUR crossover (DBA-NJ50) | 2009– | 3,696 cc (3.696 L; 225.5 cu in) V6 (VQ37VHR) | 330 PS (240 kW; 330 hp)@7000, 361 N·m (266 lb·ft)@5200 | AWD |
| Model | Years | Standard | Optional |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250GT sedan | 2006– | 5-speed automatic | - |
| 350GT sedan | 2006–2008 | 5-speed automatic | - |
| 370GT coupe | 2007–2008 | 5-speed automatic | 6-speed manual (Type S, Type SP) |
| 370GT coupe | 2008– | 7-speed automatic | 6-speed manual (Type S, Type SP) |
| 370GT sedan | 2008– | 7-speed automatic | - |
| 370GT crossover | 2009– | 7-speed automatic | - |
As part of Nissan Skyline's 50th anniversary, Warner Music Japan published a CD titled SKYLINE 50th ANNIVERSARY CD, featuring music from Nissan Skyline commercials.[33][34] Skyline model cars had also been produced.[35] Nissan also staged an exhibition in midtown Tokyo called Grand Touring – The Legend and the Future in which examples of all twelve generations of Skyline were shown.[36]
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