女 女 - MotorStars

JAGUAR F-TYPE R
☆
AUDI TT RS
☆
NISSAN SKYLINE GT-R R34
MOTOR
ST RS
SPORTSCARS DESTINED
FOR GREATNESS
Editor
Raj Hunjan
@motorstars
Contributors
Peter Hindle
James Osborne
Note from the Editor
This month we’ve picked three quite different cars, the first was responsible for
relaunching a great British marque back into the limelight, the F-Type R. This
car has brought a new, younger generation into Jaguar ownership. The F-Type
R is the car that the previous XK should have been, compact, powerful,
beautiful with an incredible soundtrack. The Jaguar F-Type is the modern
equivalent of the classic E-Type, which is why we think that in time it will
become a collectors choice. Buying one now will result in some depreciation,
but I believe it will be less than any car in the price bracket/sector of the same
age.
The second car is the Audi TT RS, which like all other RS models is an allwheel drive, turbo-charged animal. I believe the TT RS is erroneously
overlooked by many enthusiasts. The 5 cylinder engine note is very
reminiscent of the Audi Quattro rally greats and it also has the performance to
Barry Ives
keep its bigger brother, the Audi R8 honest. Prices hover at just over £20,000
Ian Smith
for an early car and I believe the best will never drop below this level as
Simon Williams
Advertising Enquiries
+44 (0)20 3022 5807
[email protected]
collectors begin to pick them up. Relatively low production numbers will
ensure it is a desirable car so grab one now while few realise their potential.
Our third car is an all time favourite of mine, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34. This
is the last GT-R to bear the famous Skyline name and represents the pinnacle
of the twin turbo RB26 engine that powered three generations of Godzilla. I
fully admit that this car is Marmite defined, but I urge those that haven’t seen
Managing Director
Fiona MacKay
or driven one to keep an open mind. Sure a lot of them are modified, which
tends to dissuade many, but this trend is only because the GT-R is capable of
so much more than when factory standard. Nissan, like all Japanese
automakers agreed to hold back the performance of their cars during the 90’s
www.motor-stars.com
facebook.com/motorstarsmag
@motorstars
to prevent a continuous escalation in power (which was seen in German
makers over the same period). Even in standard form the R34
Skyline GT-R is an exceptional, dramatic drive. Prices are
steadily rising and will continue to do so. This isn’t a just a
car for the nostalgic, it still is a formidable track or road
partner.
Raj Hunjan
[email protected]
© COPYRIGHT 2016 REVIVAL SPORTS CARS LIMITED Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, the publisher will not accept, and hereby disclaim to the
maximum extent permitted by law, any liability for any loss or damage that may be caused by any errors or omissions this publication may contain. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise - without prior written permission of the publisher. Information correct at time of
going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort has been used to trace the copyright holders of any material used in this publication. If any copyright holder has
been overlooked, we would be pleased to make any necessary amendments.
NISSAN
SKYLINE GT-R34
GRAN TURISMO
GENERATION
by Barry Ives
“The specification sheet read
like a dream wishlist”
G
T-R ownership for me started with the R35. I
After researching online, I started to understand R34's and
have owned three R35s in succession. Through
the various specifications and modifications that make a
the GTR Owners Club forum (GTROC) I started
good car. I decided that my R34 would need to be something
to learn about the earlier versions of Godzilla. My
special and out of the ordinary to float my boat, as they say. I
first classic Skyline GT-R keys were for an R32
took a trip to Harlow Jap Autos, who, despite their name, are
that was running 700bhp, however I did find it quite dated
not actually in Harlow! HJA always seem to have a great
and quite quickly settled on the R34 which I found easier to
selection of R34’s in stock, as well as more on the way at any
live with. The R34 took me on a trip back towards my early
time. On my initial visit I didn't find what I wanted, the cars
car buying days where everything was more analogue and
were good but just not special enough for me, I was looking
about the driver, car and conditions! The R34 blends the old
for more than a mildly tuned stock car. Ozz at HJA promised
and the new perfectly, with technology as well as manual
to update me with any special cars as they became available.
input required.
One day a few months after my visit I received an email with
I purchased the R34 Skyline GT-R in early 2015 and don't
the details of the Hosaka GT-R that I now own. Straight away
profess to drive it a lot as it only goes out in dry weather, the
I knew it was special, it looked menacing and aggressive
fact we don't have much helps keep the miles down to
compared to others I had seen. The specification sheet read
around 2,000 per annum. However most drives when they
like a dream wishlist from just about every top Japanese
occur are quite spirited and certainly remind me of why I
tuners parts bin. I believe the cost of the Hosaka build was
bought such a vehicle. My car is a 1999 model which is
15 million Yen excluding the base car (~£90,000). The GT-R
highly tuned by a well respected Japanese tuner that goes by
was in Japan, so I hastily sent a deposit by bank transfer to
the name of Hosaka Tuning Factory. The GT-R is finished in
secure the car, unseen and untested.
white with carbon bonnet, wings, splitter, boot and wing.
HOSAKA R34
650-720bhp at the wheels, depending on boost
Silkoline Pro 15-50 Plugs NGK BKR NGK8EIX
Engine
HKS 2.8L step 2 stroker kit (fully counterweighted and forged crank, Hsection forged connecting rods, forged pistons with nickel plating and
piston skirt with molybdenum coating)
Naprec High-Response kit: forged oversize valves+bronze valve guides.
NISMO full crank and rod bearings
HKS metal head gasket kit
HKS V Cam Step 2
EX Cam HKS 264 ° Step 2
NISMO collector tank
NISMO oil pump
SARD Injectors 800cc/min x6
HKS upgraded fuel Pump
HKS F CON V PRO Gold
NISMO engine mounts
HKS GT-RS × 2 turbines
ARC twin Entries large core intercooler
HKS intake pipes
TRUST oil cooler
TRUST air filters
KOYO aluminium 3 layers radiator
ARC radiator shroud
SARD air-separator system,
Hosaka tuning factory original oil separator system
TOMEI exhaust manifold
Hosaka tuning factory original turbine outlet
Hosaka tuning factory original full titanium exhaust system
SARD sports catalyser
Driveline/wheels and tires
NISMO Coppermix twin plate competition clutch
NISMO mission mounts
NISMO front GT LSD
NISMO rear GT LSD
Final gear ratio 4.1
Rays TE37 10.5J
DUNLOP Direzza 03G 265/35/18 tyres
Suspension/Brakes
Stoptech Front Trophy big brake kit 2 piece full floating 380mm discs
PFC 06 front brake pads
Brembo Lotus rear calipers with Dixcell 2 piece full floating 355mm
discs
Project mu rear pads
IKEYA Formula full pillow and arms
PCR Hosaka tuning factory original adjustable suspension kit
HKS Kansai service strut tower bar
Interior
Driver's seat: Recaro SPG 3
Passenger’s seat: Recaro SR 3
Cusco 4 point roll cage
Key's Steering wheel
TRUST boost controller
HKS Electronic Valve-timing Controller
NISMO odometer
NISMO shift knob
Exterior/others
HKS Kansai Carbon Bonnet
VOLTEX carbon GT Wing
Top Secret front bumper
HASEMI Sport rear canard
HASEMI Sport side skirts
Craft Square carbon exterior mirrors
OPTIMA yellow top battery
It's funny but as I approach my two GT-R’s I normally have
stock BMW 3-Series. Once warm the car is not overly noisy
both sets of keys, if I just want to drive for the sheer sake of
on tick over, there's just a constant pop from the exhaust to
driving it's always the R34 that wins, generally a drive with no
let everyone nearby know of the imminent departure. My R34
purpose other than to drive, says it all really. If I'm actually
is built for quick response and once warm when you hit the
going somewhere then it's normally the R35 that wins out.
throttle the rev counter will just fly round to near 9,000rpm in
The Hosaka R34 is set up as
any gear, it's just so flexible and
a track car really but still
without a hint of turbo lag, a
remains very compliant and
road useable. It's the only
road car I've owned that
feels and handles like a
“The noise at full chat
is intoxicating”
lightweight slicks and wings
testament to Hosaka tuning and
the very expensive and prized V
Cam system that is fitted.The
noise at full chat is intoxicating
from the inside so God knows
car. The R35 just munches journeys and is easy to drive quite
what it's like outside. I don't let anyone else drive it so have
quickly whilst having all the modern toys. Across county I
never heard it from that perspective, I can only imagine it
don't think there is anything between them but one just does
sounds like a jet fighter on a low pass. Handling wise it is like
it and the other needs driving, I will let you work out which is
a go kart, every input is met with an immediate change in
which
direction, increase or decrease in speed, there is no slack in
There is nothing special or complicated about starting an
any of the controls. It's as if the car reacts instantly by
R34 GT-R, just turn the key and it erupts into life, catch the
telepathy. If you drive over a coin you can tell if it's heads or
throttle and after a few gentle blips the car will idle like a
tails up!
In simple terms
nothing with
number plates or
anything this side
of a top spec rally
car would keep up
with the Hosaka
Skyline GT-R on a
twisty road,
nothing! Well
maybe my
Mitsubishi Lancer
EVO 7 wide body
that runs 722bhp…
The R34 GT-R feels
the same at all
speeds and never
intimidating, it's
just the same
everywhere you
drive. Even a 30mph bend feels exciting because of the
paint is perfect, some don't like the stickers but there
feedback and connection the car gives. Although it's very
removable so who cares? Sometimes it makes me feel like I
stiff due to the track focused set up it never feels nervous
am buttoned up the wrong way, a fifty-three year old in a
even when it starts to follow ruts and lines, although these do
twelve year old’s car but then why not, I couldn't afford it
have an effect on it, its progressive and does not cause
when I was twelve!
panic.
From the outside there are just so many interesting angles
The R34 Skyline GT-R car is always exciting, even when not
moving or running, sometimes I open the garage door just to
and features to look at on the R34 GT-R body. From the
be excited then close it again. People walk into lampposts,
vented wings and bonnet to the functional cooling ducts in
fall off pavements and always want to talk to you no matter
the bumper and front splitter. The mix of carbon and white
the age, a quick fill in the petrol station takes about thirty
minutes every time. Since
the death of Paul Walker,
everyone now seems to
know exactly what a
Nissan Skyline GT-R is, as
it was the Fast & Furious
star’s car of choice, both
on and off the big screen.
I often get questions like I
bet that's quick, how
much horsepower does it
have and is it really yours!
Other drivers constantly
point camera phones out
the window and gee you
up for a little rev, it's
always in an appreciate
way, never jealousy.
There is little to add to my Hosaka GT-R as the build in
supply of decent cars ensure that they won't fall in value
Japan was so extensive, I wasn't left with much to improve. I
significantly. I've already been offered over £50,000 for my
have updated the front end to the Z Tune style, which I am
one-off R34 GT-R and that's not enough. There are more
now very happy with. The specialist I use are Kaizer in Kent
“older” R35 owners with disposable income that are seeking
and Exclusive Tuning in
Herts, both these outfits are
at the top of their game when
it comes to the GT-R. Parts
the thrills of the more
“the finite supply of decent cars ensure that they won't fall in value”
wise the big and highly
analogue R34 whilst still
keeping their R35, this is also
keeping demand up.
At the time of writing, I own
regarded brands are NISMO, HKS, Narprec, Sard, Koyo,
an R35 with 670bhp, a Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 7 Wide Body
Hasemi, Kansai, Thrust, Voltex, Top Secret, Stoptech,
with 722bhp, a slicks and wings Juno race car as well as the
Brembo, ARC, RAYS, Ikeya and F1 Carbon.
R34. I am constantly considering other cars to add to my
At the moment everything with a GT-R badge on it just
collection. At the moment I have a deposit on a Lamborghini
seems to be on the up, from the early R32 right up to the
Gallardo Superleggera but will keep the R34 alongside it, so I
R35. In terms of everything before the current R35, the finite
will have the best of all worlds!
“It's as if the car reacts
instantly by telepathy. If
you drive over a coin
you can tell if it's heads
or tails!”
NISSAN
SKYLINE GT-R34
CARBON OBSESSION
by Ian Smith
H
aving owned two R33 Skylines (a GT-R and GTS) previously, it was a pretty obvious step to get
price with me and the deal was done!
Mine is a 2000 R34 non-V Spec in Active Red with two
a R34 Skyline GT-R. I loved the performance of
previous UK owners (and a Japanese owner who tracked the
the R33, but the looks had become a little
car regularly, as I could tell from race harness hooks under
outdated, so the R34 was, respectively, an easy
the seats!). In terms of the cosmetic modifications, I
option. I knew what I was getting into rather than having to
unfortunately got the dreaded “car porn” bug a few years
start again with a new marque. As I already knew I wanted an
ago, I could not stop adding carbon fibre to the car! This
R34, it was simply a case of finding the right one. I expected
included custom made carbon badges, a modified rear
to be saving for about two years before I would be ready to
spoiler and V Spec lower front undertray. Unfortunately the
buy one, but one year in, a friend mentioned to me that
carbon addiction continued internally. Skylines have a very
someone was selling a red R34 on the GTR forum and had
dull, grey interior, apart from later R34s, so although leather is
dropped their price to an incredibly low £19,000. Without
not always the best for trackdays, it does give a sense of
being rude to the previous owner, the photographs were awful
refinement compared to standard. I’m not one of these
– looked like dirty gold wheels on a dull red car, but I saw the
people who are manic about polishing their engines – it is
potential. I really didn’t have the money, but it seemed too
there do a job and a long as it does it, I really don’t care how
good to be true so I jumped in the car and drove from the
it looks - but I am grateful of the excellent work done by my
North East to Bolton the next weekend. The owner needed to
tuner over the years. In short, the car is running just under
sell the car quickly. It had been serviced by Rod Bell (a well
500bhp with a fully forged engine, upgraded turbos, cooling
respected tuner in the GTR community) and after a quick chat
and baffled sump. Other modifications include adjustable
with Rod to confirm details, I knew it was a good car. I
Ohlins DFV road and track suspension - which is expensive,
chanced my luck, explained I had not saved enough money
but awesome! There are also endurance racing brakes with
yet, offered him a lower figure and reluctantly, he agreed a
Porsche Carrera Cup discs and a V Spec rear undertray.
I’ve owned the R34 for almost 7 years - the longest I have
Like any other turbo engine, I am careful about not bringing
ever owned a car, which says a lot about how good I think
the car on to boost until it is warm. Noise wise, again, I may be
they are! To be absolutely honest, I do not drive it half as
a little different to most owners because I had a custom-made
often as I wish I did because, having initially discovered my
exhaust to ensure it was under the 105dB limit for track days
love of track days, I decided to spend some considerable
so I wouldn’t say I wake up the street, but I have to think about
time and money setting the car for track performance
revving the engine too early in the morning as one neighbour
without, hopefully, losing the ability to drive it easily on the
loves the sound while the other neighbours aren’t so happy! To
road. That means the car can spend months in the garage
me, it’s just a pleasant deep gurgle waiting to erupt.
being “fettled”. It’s not a trailer queen, but I only drive it on
Once the engine has warmed up, the GTR drives fairly
weekends and during the week in dry weather - I probably do
comfortably but a tad firm. The R34 has very good throttle
5,000 miles per annum.
response, although you must use plenty of throttle right at the
It doesn’t matter whether you hate it or love it, you cannot
bottom end and be careful once the turbos come on boost if
deny the GTR has “presence” but you can argue whether that
you are not used to them. The car always feels well planted
is aggressive, sporty or just plain chavvy! Those who are
and rarely unstable – although it always feels more surefooted
concerned about what other people think, tend to keep the
at speeds way beyond the legal limit, due to the
car as close to standard as possible to avoid unwanted
aerodynamics. Once the car hits boost there is no “sneaking
attention and to avoid traditionally “upmarket” marques
up on people”, it is loud. The problem is after seven years I’m
looking down their nose at you, but I find it quite funny. I’ve
used to the sound, so off boost, on motorways, I think it is
gone for the “in your face” look, because within reason, I can
acceptable, whereas friends with more modern cars think it is
compete with those “upmarket marques” - or maybe it’s just
“a bit bumpy and a bit noisy”, but you just raise your voice
a midlife crisis?
slightly whenever you have a passenger.
Although I would have to say the GTR is great on winding
roads, tight B roads can prove a little too small for such a big
car… after all, they are 1.5 tonne Nissan Bluebirds to most
people. Even in standard form, the car feels great and with
the modifications to suspension and brakes, mine instils
confidence to push the car harder and harder. One myth to
dispel - the car does not drive itself and is not “impossible to
spin”. I have spun twice and gone wide once on track, two of
those cost me dearly, so I know from personal hands-on
experience! Overall, the Skyline GT-R is confidence inspiring,
but you do need to learn what the GTR is telling you. The car
does feel weirdly like it is oversteering as you initially turn into
the corner with the active 4WD and steering. If you push too
hard on entry, it can understeer. I feel at ease at almost every
speed and my only complaint (and I would emphasize this is
due to my bad driving rather than the car) is that if you do
lose the backend and manage to recover it, you need to be
ultra-quick otherwise the car snaps back in the other
direction quickly & violently. I think I’ve caught oversteer
three or four times on track but on every occasion, it has
snapped back in the other direction. Apparently, you have to
anticipate this, but that is easier said than done!
The best feature of the exterior has to be the twin “after
burner” rear lights because, until the last couple of years,
there was nothing else on the road that looked close to it.
Although there are a couple of modern cars which now have
a pair of rear lights which look similar from about 6-800 yards
away. Otherwise the aggressive 90’s square styling is my
favourite “feature”. I don’t like the R34 interior much, but I
suppose if I have to pick something, it would be the Multi
Function Display, which I think everyone associates with the
R34.
The car never gets dull or boring for me, but I suppose I’m
not one of these people who has a project, finishes it and
then has to sell the car immediately and start the next
project. Having said that, I do like to tweak little features
every few months. The exterior was finished about a year
ago, but I am busy having a pair of handles carbon coated.
These days, it is more about maintenance; ensuring the
engine, brakes, steering and suspension are refreshed
regularly so the car is in good road and track condition. After
going through the pain of an engine rebuild or you discover
what we call “Skyline tax”, when trying to replace something
you think will be cheap and easy to find, the adrenalin rush
returns soon as you get behind the wheel on a clean dry day
with very little traffic around and you forget the pain and
remember why you love the car so much.
Through the GTR Owners Club, I have met lots of
addition to shows like JAE, Autosport International at the
NEC, Goodwood and a host of UK tracks, I’ve been lucky
enough to travel to Spa Belgium, Nurburgring, Mondello
Ireland, Isle of Man, Clermont Ferrand France (Michelin Test
Track) and Le Mans for track events and been on two
European tours with the Club, which included Monaco,
France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands,
Croatia, Austria, Slovenia.
Old ladies shudder at the noise, lads ask you to “rev it”,
men say “nice car” and kids say “how much bhp has it
got” [normally followed by “not enough, my mate’s got one
with 1000bhp”]. Sadly, you also get things like “has it got
neons” and various references to Fast and Furious but I bet
you most Skyline owners secretly love the attention even if
they tell you they are “fed up of people asking how much bhp
has it got”. The real problem is owners who decide to make
up their own bhp figures because they want to impress
people, so any car with less than 750-1,000bhp must be
standard!
Like most other cars, if you keep it in standard form and
look after it sensibly, I find them to be very reliable. Once you
go beyond standard, it depends how far you push the car. To
some extent, you are looking for the next weakest link in the
chain, once you go too far beyond standard. A lot of people
will tell you that you can go up to 420bhp without doing very
much at all to the car, about 500bhp with some careful mods,
but beyond this, you begin to find enhancements then need
stronger parts, more regular maintenance, more attention to
start-up and cool down procedures. One word of caution – if
you have a Japanese import, you need to keep on top of the
dreaded rust. All Skylines have a problem with the front
suspension mounts and (front and rear) arches if you do not
look after them, but regular undersealing for the whole car is
a must!
My modifications are designed for track and fast road. The
braking and suspension modifications work very well and
although the engine power improvement is a real buzz, it was
probably the improved cooling which helped most in allowing
me to push a little more for a little longer. If I was to list all the
modifications, I’d probably need to start another article. Let’s
just say, in its present form, the car is fast enough for me - I
really don’t have the skill to handle much more power without
doing myself some serious damage. I use and recommend
DaveW at The GTR Shop. Chris Conley in Sunderland did the
leather and Leon at EPRacing supplied some of the carbon
parts. There are a host of other tuners and garages across
the UK and if anyone visits gtr.co.uk they will see a plethora
of forum posts about people’s experiences.
R34s have appreciated because the R33s were imported in
the thousands and became “too popular” reducing their
prices accordingly. Many owners sold their R33 and found
getting an R34 too difficult/expensive and moved to other
marques. Some, later, discovered the new Nissan GTR and
as their prices begin to reach an affordable level for
enthusiasts, people have really got into them. As a result
R34s are rare and they seem be holding the price very well.
Like the R32, I think good standard R34s will become a
classic over the next 5-10 years and I hope modified R34s
will keep their value, due to the rarity factor! Money no
object – I would have plenty of hypercars, maybe a
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution for track days (most UK tracks
can be a little small for the GT-R), classic American muscle
Mustang/Ford GTO or for the rarity factor again – Nissan
Skyline KPGC110 (2000GTR). I’d also have the Nissan GT-R,
it is a phenomenal car but, I get a slight feeling of comfort
and safety from the GTR until going at such a speed that an
accident would kill me rather than damage the car. The R34
gives me that sense of “if I get this wrong it will be a little
painful and quite scary…hang onto your pants” but without
instant death and I kind of like that!
REASONS TO BUY A NISSAN SKYLINE GTR
The Skyline GT-R that the Playstation generation
grew up with and are now seeking out.
History all the way back to 1969 with the original
rear wheel drive Skyline GT-R, nicknamed
"Hakosuka”.
Extremely well proportioned and timeless
design.
Very rare sight outside of Japan.
Prices have been relatively stable for the last
decade and are now starting to rise for all
variants.
Bold styling and functional aerodynamics make
this a true enthusiasts car.
NISSAN GTR
4 Seats | FRONT Engine | AWD
The R34 Skyline GT-R was released in 1999 and is
computer monitors the cars movements ten times
actually closer to the R32 than the R33 in terms of
per second to sense traction loss alongside a three-
wheelbase. It was determined by Nissan that a
axis G-Sensor. Up to 50% power can be directed to
shorter wheelbase would increase the dynamic
the front wheels.
This system actually made the R34 GT-R handle
slightly too bulky. All R34 GT-Rs came equipped with
like a rear wheel drive car, with the added safety net
a version of the ATTESA E-TS system (Advanced
of all wheel drive if things got out of control. The
Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain). A
current R35 GT-R still uses this technology today.
Engine
cylinders / capacity
Power
bhp / rpm
Torque
lb ft / rpm
Max Speed
6 / 2569
Carbon Emissions
276 / 6800
Miles Per Gallon
20.1
Wheel & Tyres
245 / 40 / 18
245 / 40 / 18
289 / 4400
CO2g / km
Width / Sidewall / Diameter
NA
165
Weight Distribution
0 - 60
seconds
4.7
Track width
0 - 100
12.5
Wheelbase
2665
Weight
kg
1540
Transmission
6 speed manual
Power to Weight
180
Drivetrain
Front / All
mph
seconds
Ratio
Dimensions
Length / Width / Height
Years Produced
Front : Rear
Front / Rear
Engine position / Driven wheels
4600 / 1785 / 1360
Price New
1999 - 2002
Number Produced
GBP
Global
52 : 48
1480 / 1490
54,000
12,175
Special Edition Model - Number Produced
V Spec - 1,308 | V Spec UK - 80 | V Spec N1- 37 | V Spec II - 5,512 | V Spec II Nur - 750 | V Spec II Nür - 750 | V Spec II N1 - 18
M Spec - 228 | M Spec Nür - 250 | V Spec II Nismo Z Tune - 19
Nissan Skyline GT-R
ability of the car, as some thought the R33 was
Model Evolution
The Skyline GT-R and GT-R V·spec R34 models were
released in January 1999. The RB26 engine remained
from the previous generation R33 but with the valve
covers painted glossy red. The R34 GT-R came with a
5.8" LCD display in the dashboard, which shows seven
different live readings of engine and vehicle statistics
such as turbocharger pressure, oil and water
The V·spec version was imported into the UK in early
temperature. The GT-R V·spec model added two extra
2000 with a number of modifications carried out on the
features to the display: intake and exhaust gas
car. These included 3 additional oil coolers, revised
temperatures. The R34 GT-R V-Spec models come
ECU map, full Connolly leather interior, underbody
equipped with the ATTESA E-TS Pro system
diffusers, stiffer suspension, active rear limited slip
and an Active LSD at the rear, while standard
differential, extra display feature on the in car display.
GT-R models come with the non-Pro system
and a conventional mechanical differential.
1999
In October 2000, Nissan released the V·spec II,
replacing the V·spec. The V·spec II has
increased stiffness in the suspension
The V spec model also had firmer suspension
Nissan Skyline GT-R
and lower ground clearance, thanks to front and
(even stiffer than the original V·spec)
2000
side splitters, as well as a rear carbon fiber air diffuser,
designed to keep air flowing smoothly under the car.
and had larger rear brake rotors. It also
comes equipped with a carbon fiber
hood equipped with a NACA duct,
In February 2002 the Skyline GT-R V·spec II
Nür and the Skyline GT-R M·spec Nür were
released. The Nür was named after the
which is lighter than the aluminum that all
2002
other GT-R hoods are made from. Also different
on the V·spec II was an iridium center console and
Nürburgring, where the Skyline was
aluminum pedals. The seats were upholstered with
developed. The Nür model featured an improved
black cloth rather than the gray cloth used on previous
RB26DETT based on the N1 racing engine. The
R34 GT-R models, and the amber turn lenses were
standard turbochargers were upgraded to larger
replaced with white versions. With the exception of the
versions with a slight increase in boost and the ceramic
carbon fiber bonnet, the standard trim level GT-R also
blades were replaced with steel versions. This has
received these updates.
increased lag, but to compensate the turbo's durability
was improved while being able to handle a bigger boost
increase.
What the motoring press said
“It sounds like a blast and
it is. At first, though, it’s
unnerving. The R34 has an
entirely different feel to a
Scooby or an Evo. It feels
like an altogether tougher,
bigger, heavier car. And
those SUPER HICAS four-wheel
steering responses appear to
be artificially darty. Much
of the high-tech hardware is
designed to make it feel oldtech simple and honest.”
EVO, 2007
“What’s a surprise is the speed
this Skyline can carry into
corners, the traction it musters
out of them, and the discovery
that you can ride this torrent
of momentum. Of course, you have
to ease off for tight bends,
heel-and-toe your way to lower
gears and drive in the knowledge
that you might have to slow for
the unexpected, but so forceful
is the Nissan’s punch, so fluent
its mastery of curves, that you
don’t want roads to end.”
Autocar, 2005
”You've got to drive it
proactively and hold your
nerve though. An easy car to
drive at eight tenths, it's
one that makes bigger and
bigger demands of you the
further you're willing to
push it. And that's what
makes it so compelling. It's
not a car you master on first
acquaintance. Or even second
or third. You keep learning
with it, always aware it's
got a whole lot more to give
if you've got the balls.”
PistonHeads, 2013
Options
Ideal Specification
The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 came well equipped
as standard like most Japanese cars of the era.
Standard items included electric windows, electric
folding mirrors and climate control. Many cars that
are in the UK will have an immobiliser and alarm but
this was not available from the factory as an option
so will be an aftermarket system.
When buying a Skyline GT-R our recommendation
is to find a totally standard interior car with original
paintwork as these will be the most collectible in the
Exterior Colours
In total, there were thirteen colours available for the
R34 Skyline GT-R
TV2 - Bayside Blue QM1 - White
KR4 - Sonic Silver KV2 - Athlete Silver
GV1 - Black Pearl AR2 - Active Red
EV1 - Lightning Yellow
LV4 - Midnight Purple II
LX0 - Midnight Purple III WV2 - Sparkling Silver
QX1 - White Pearl EY0 - Silica Breath
JW0 - Millennium Jade
Interior Colours
The R34 Skyline GT-R was available initially with
grey cloth Recaro seats, which were later replaced
with black cloth Recaro seats. The UK and M-Spec
cars came with black or red leather seats.
Nissan Skyline GT-R
future.
Figures
2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
58,000 miles, Cristal White, Black cloth seats, Nismo
suspension,
stainless steel
exhaust, factory
Buying one
fitted front fog
Prices for the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 start at around
lights.
£28,000 and go up to around £50,000 for the late
model V-Spec II NUR models and most other limited
versions. The Nismo Z-Tune cars fetch around
£28,000
£300,000 now. Prices for modified cars are in line or in
excess of standard cars, provided the parts and work
has been carried out by the well known companies. Our
1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec
advice is to find a car in the colour and specification of
59,000 miles, Sparkling Silver, Black cloth seats, Nismo
your choice with the modifications that suit you.
bodykit, Nismo front indicators.
Nissan Skyline GT-R
FUTURE VALUE ANALYSIS
Nissan Skyline GT-R
PRICE
2001
£31,995
March 2016
£54,000 £28,000
VALUE NOW EQUATES TO 52% OF
ORIGINAL PRICE
PROJECTED VALUE IN 3 YEARS
2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec II
48,000 miles, Bayside Blue, Black cloth seats, Apexi
exhaust system,
Mines carbon
fibre front panel
and carbon
fibre vent in the
£25k-£40k
bonnet.
£34,995
£20k
£30k
£40k
£50k
Projected value is based on storing the Nissan
Skyline GT-R, or running less than 2,000 miles per
year with annual specialist servicing to maintain
the service record. This analysis is a guide only
and is based on our opinion of the market place,
this value may be significantly different to actual
value in 3 years time.
2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 M-Spec
57,000 miles, Silica Breath, Black Leather seats, Nismo
indicators, Nismo
exhaust, Nismo
S-tune
suspension.
£42,000
Parts Analysis
Below are the parts prices for the Nissan Skyline R34
The Nissan dealership network in the UK may struggle
GT-R sourced from several online GT-R specialists, the
to order parts for you and even work on the cars so
tyre prices are sourced from Blackcircles. All prices
stick to the recommended specialists according to the
should be used as a guide only. Prices from Nissan will
online forums.
be different to those quoted.
In terms of costs, areas to be mindful of are the
As you can see, prices for parts are not too bad,
clutch, exhaust and brakes. Also the turbos will need to
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Kit
£300
Wheel bearing
Brake Pads Front (pair) £80
Front (pair) £238
£58
Rear (pair)
£238
£90
Rear (pair)
Rear (each) £125
Brake Discs
Dampers
£350
Rear (pair)
£350
Springs
Front (pair) £150
Rear (pair)
£160
Tyres - Bridgestone Potenza 050
Wheels - 18” Alloy Wheels
Front (pair) £250
Front (each) £NA
Rear (pair)
£160
Rear (each) £NA
EXHAUST
Manifold
Front (pair) WHEELS
BRAKES
Front (each) SUSPENSION
be checked to ensure they still work as intended.
Cat back system (HKS)
£600
£600
OTHER PARTS
Alternator
£260
Oil Filter
£15
Headlight unit (each)
£250
Rear light unit (each)
£150
Starter Motor
£500
Nissan Skyline GT-R
however availability of parts in the UK can be an issue.
Buyer Checkpoints
Engine
Brakes
The stock RB26 was detuned from the factory to meet the
The Brembo four pot front and 2 pot rear brakes are okay for
Japanese 276bhp limit agreed by manufacturers, for this
regular road use, check the condition of the discs and pads
reason many now are at least lightly tuned to 400bhp or
to see if they still have plenty of life left. Also check that the
more. This shouldn’t deter you though, a well chosen
brake fluid has been changed regularly.
aftermarket exhaust and air filter along with a mild engine
remap shouldn’t impact the reliability of the engine
Wheels & Tyres
whatsoever. The unit is proven to withstand over 100,000
Make sure that the original alloy wheels are present and
miles in this state of tune without any issues. Even the
undamaged. Wheels with a diameter of larger than 18 inches
ceramic turbos are strong items provided they aren’t run at
can upset the handling and suppleness of the ride. The tyres
over 1 bar of boost. Regular oil changes are a must though,
should be premium matching brand items, any differences in
so check that these have been carried out with high quality
tread or size can affect the 4WD system. Check for uneven
oil. If the car suffers from low oil pressure this could indicate
tread wear, which will indicate the suspension needing
internal engine problems so investigate thoroughly. The oil
realignment.
Nissan Skyline GT-R
pressure sender/sensor can fail and give lower readings, but
this is a cheap fix.
Bodywork
Originally these cars were not undersealed because they
Clutch & Gearbox
don’t use salt on the roads In Japan. As a result if a car has
The standard six-speed Getrag gearbox is more than capable
been regularly used through winter in the UK check the rear
of coping with a lightly tuned engine, but if the car is pushing
arches, sills, boot floor and underside for corrosion. If a car
out more than 500bhp the transmission should be upgraded.
has been undersealed this can mask rust. Freshly imported
Clutch life can be as much as 50,000 miles. If the synchros
cars can also have corrosion issues so check over them too.
are on their way out, this will be most apparent on the 4th to
The GT-R compares very well to other cars in terms of
5th gear change during a test drive. The all wheel drive
corrosion. No issues reported regarding the electrics or
system has no common reported issues to worry about.
interior parts.
Suspension & Steering
Ownership
No specific issues reported but check all components
Servicing is recommended every 3-5,000 miles to refresh the
including rubber bushings as they may need refreshing due
oil. The timing belt and oil pump should also be changed
to their age, if original items.
every 60,000 miles or five years.