Nissan Skyline

ALSI-1 series

The first Skyline was introduced on 24 April 1957, at the Takarazuka Theater, in Hibiya, Tokyo,^[3] for Fuji Precision Industries, marketed as a luxury car. It featured a 1.5 L (1,482 cc) GA-30 engine (also known as FG4A-30) producing 44 kW (60 hp) at 4,400 rpm, which was previously used in the prototype Subaru 1500, Subaru's first car.^[4] It used a de Dion tube rear suspension and was capable of 140 km/h (87 mph). The car weighed around 1,300 kg (2,900 lb). Skylines were produced as four-door sedans and five-door station wagons. Two models were available: the ALSIS-1 standard and the ALSID-1 Deluxe. The ALSI-1's appearance seems to be influenced by 1950s American cars (the front end was similar to the 1957 Chevrolet); the car featured rear tail fins, chrome molding and two-tone paint.

The ALSI-1 generation was sold in the United States,^[5] but did not sell well, and remain extremely rare. In 2020, a 1960 left-hand-drive model reappeared in an Idaho junkyard.^[6]

ALSI-2 series

The ALSI-2 series was released in October 1959 and was nearly identical to the ALSI-1 series except for the engine. Higher quality fuel allowed for an increase in compression and a power increase to 70 hp (71 PS). This new engine was designated the FG4A-40 (this engine was also known as the GA-4).

The ALSI-2-1 series was released in February 1960. The Deluxe, along with the commercial variants, were updated with quad headlights (the standard model retained the twin headlights). The side strip design was changed on standard models; the V-shape in the side strip was moved from the front doors to the rear doors. On Deluxe models the side strip design remained the same. The standard model gained quad headlights in September 1960 with the release of the ALSI-2-2 series.

BLSI-3 series

The BLSI-3 series was released in May 1961. The 1500 engine used in the ALSID Deluxe was dropped and instead used the 91 hp (92 PS) 1.9L GB-4 (also known as FG4B-40) OHV four-cylinder engine from the Gloria. The BLSI series was otherwise identical to the ALSI series, except for a "1900" badge on the side. The standard model received the new engine in October 1961.

Commercial variants remained available, also equipped with the new engine.

S21 series

The S21 series was released in September 1962. It was in production until November 1963. The front end was redesigned in an attempt to update the look of the car. The result was rather unsuccessful as the car now looked like a 1950s body with a 1960s front end. The S21 continued to use the 1.9L GB-4 engine.

The 3-door van was dropped and replaced with a 5-door station wagon; a double cab pickup truck remained available.

S50

In 1961 Fuji Precision Industries changed its name to Prince Motor Company (for the second time). Two years later, in September 1963, the S50 Skyline Deluxe (S50D-1) was launched,^[10] followed by the Skyline Standard (S50S-1) in April 1964. This was the second generation car, and became one of the more desirable cars in Japan. It was powered by the G-1 engine,^[4] a 68 hp or 70 PS (51 kW) version of the old GA-4. The S50 series were available with a three-speed column shift transmission, or a four-speed floor shift transmission from February 1965 (Deluxe only). A two-speed automatic option was added to the Deluxe in June 1966. The lower priced and equipped Standard model was added in April 1964; aiming at taxi operators and others it also lacked bumper overriders, making it 11 cm shorter. Three main models of the S50 were built: the S50-1 (1964–1966), the lightly facelifted S50-2 (1966–1967) and the S50-3 (1967–1968). These all used the same engine, with the later S57 receiving a more modern unit.

Externally, the S50-1 was installed with rounded brake lights and integrated tail lights, with a centrally installed turn signal, similar in appearance to the Ford Galaxie of 1961. The significant appearance change from the previous generation seems to reflect a similar approach done by German company BMW in 1962 with the New Class series, in deciding to build a small, affordable, performance coupe and sedan.

The S50 was sold in some markets with an A150 designation. In European markets (and other export markets), it was also marketed as the PMC-Mikado A150.^[8] The S50-2 was also sold as the S56SE A190D for export markets in Europe^[11] and Asia (such as in British Hong Kong),^[12] which was equipped with the 55 hp (56 PS) 1.9 liter D-6 OHV diesel engine. This model had trim and equipment levels similar to the S50S-2. In Europe, period testers commented on the car's compact size (more like a 1.0 than a 1.5) and its sprightly performance, in large part due to the extremely low gearing.^[13] The car's ample lighting was also noted, offering twin headlights, a bevy of warning lamps, numerous engine room light fittings, etcetera.^[14] Also lauded were the cars road manners, as evident by the six-cylinder Skyline's competition successes.^[13]

In August 1966, Nissan and Prince merged and the S50 also appeared with Nissan Prince Skyline badging. In October 1966, the S50-2 was introduced. This light facelift included a new grille and rectangular taillights, as well as changes to the interior, and with the addition of an extraction vent on the C-pillar.^[15] It was sold as Prince Skyline, Prince A150, or PMC A150, depending on the market. All "Prince" dealership locations were added to the existing Nissan/Datsun Japanese dealerships, while retaining the Prince name to become the Nissan Prince Store.

In August 1967 the S50-3 was introduced. The tail lights and front side indicators were changed to a wider rectangular shape, but otherwise the car remained identical to the S50-2 series. The S50-3 was the last Prince model to use the G-1 engine. The Deluxe trim was rebranded as the S57 series.

S54

Prince launched the racing version of the Skyline, the Skyline GT in May 1964.^[16] It was based on the S50D-1 and used the G-7 engine from the Gloria S41, though the car needed a 200 mm (8 in) extension to the wheelbase (all forward of the cowl) to provide space in the engine bay for the inline six. It entered the second Japanese Grand Touring II (GT-II) on 3 May 1964^[17] and they hoped to win the race. Competing against the Porsche 904, the Skyline GTs managed second through to sixth places.^[18] Only 100 units S54A-1 were made for homologation purpose^[18] (92 road cars and 8 racing cars)^[19] and sold out instantly due to the success of the race vehicle. The S54A-1 was available with the standard single carburetor (G7-A) 2.0-liter inline-six engine (producing 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp) and 16.0 kg⋅m (157 N⋅m; 116 lb⋅ft)), 4-speed manual transmission and tachometer as standard. The triple Webber carburetors, a LSD, 5-speed manual transmission, sport steering wheel and oil cooler were available as additional options.^[20]

In February 1965, the Prince Skyline 2000GT road car (S54B-2) was released to the Japanese market,^[21] followed by the less powerful 2000GT-A (S54A-2) in September on the same year^[22] and S54B-2 model was renamed to 2000GT-B.^[23]

The GT-B model featured three Weber 40DCOE-18 carburetors (G7-B; producing 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 5,600 rpm and 17.0 kg⋅m (167 N⋅m; 123 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm), rear torsion bar suspension, Nardi steering wheel, power brakes and front disc brakes as standard. The cheaper GT-A did not receive Nardi steering wheel, booster brakes, front disc brakes and rear wheel torque rod.^[22] Both models could get additional options such as safety belts, radio, heather, bigger fuel tank, a LSD, 5-speed close ratio manual transmission and racing suspension kits.^[22][21]

In October 1966, the GT received mild facelift similar to S50D-2, but retained its original round taillights. This model was known as S54-3. Still with similar equipment as S54-2, except for seat belts and 5-speed manual transmission (GT-B only) that became standard.^[24][25]

The South Australian versions both used the S54B engine, the difference was in the gearbox, the GT-A had a 4-speed gearbox, and the GT-B had the European ZF 5-speed gearbox.

S57

In August 1967 Prince released the successor of the S50D-2 called the S57.^[10] It used a new engine of Prince's (designed before the merger with Nissan), the OHC 1.5 L (1,483 cc) G15. At 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp), it was the most-powerful engine in the Japanese 1,500 cc class. The S57D was almost identical to the S50S-3 except for using different grille with a red "88" badge (for 88 PS) and an "OHC" badge above the right side reversing light. The trunk badge said "Prince" and the side badges said "Skyline 1500" or "Skyline 1500 Deluxe". There was a "NISSAN" badge of the left side of the grille as well as well as below the left side backup light. After the Prince name was dropped, the "NISSAN" badge under the backup light disappeared (the badge on the grille remained), and the "Prince" badges were replaced by "NISSAN", but the stylized "P" emblem on the hood remained.

2000GT

In October 1968 the GC10 2000GT's engine power was decreased to 105 hp (78 kW), Nissan introduced an automatic variant in June 1970, as well as a 2-door coupe in October 1970.

2000GT-X

In September 1971, the KGC10 2000 GT-X received a 2.0 L (1,998 cc) L20SU straight-six engine instead of the Prince G-7 engine. The chassis was already designed to fit a straight six, to avoid the S54 extension problem. 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) was available from this new engine. In March 1972 the lineup was expanded to include a four-door GT-X sedan.

• 
  Facelift Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-X sedan (KGC10)
• 
  Facelift Skyline 2000 GT-X hardtop coupé (KGC10)
• 
  Facelift Skyline 2000 GT-X hardtop coupé (KGC10)
• 
  L20 engine

GT-R

The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969.^[30] 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 (119 kW) and 180 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft) of torque, 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.^[30]

The C10 raced against many cars including the Toyota 1600GT, 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:

• 1500 – 1.5 L G-15 I4, 88 hp (71 kW), 128 N⋅m (94 lb⋅ft)
• 1500 – 1.5 L G-15 I4, 95 hp (71 kW), 128 N⋅m (94 lb⋅ft)
• 1800 – 1.8 L G-18 I4, 105 hp (78 kW), 150 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft)
• 2000GT – 2.0 L L20 I6, 120 hp (89 kW), 167 N⋅m (123 lb⋅ft)
• 2000GT-X – 2.0 L L20SU I6, 130 hp (96 kW), 172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft)
• 2000GT-R – 2.0 L S20 I6, 160 hp (118 kW), 180 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft)
• 2400GT 2.4 L – L24 I6, 130 hp (97 kW), 198 N⋅m (146 lb⋅ft)^[27]

Body styles

• C-10 4-door sedan or 5-door wagon (August 1968 – September 1972)
• GC-10 4-door 2000GT (October 1968 – September 1972)
• PGC-10 4-door GT-R Skyline (February 1969 – September 1970)
• KPGC-10 2 Door GT-R Skyline (October 1970 – September 1972)
• KGC-10 2000GT 2-door (October 1970 – September 1972)
• KGC-10 2000GT-X 2-door (September 1971 – September 1972)
• KGC-10 2000GT-X 4-door (March 1972 – September 1972)
• GLC-10 2000GT 4-door Left Hand Drive
• HGLC-10 2400GT 4-door Left Hand Drive

GT-R

The Skyline GT-R hardtop arrived in September 1972 but only lasted until March 1973, when Nissan ceased its production. The 1973 oil crisis saw many people preferring economy cars and high-performance sports cars were looked down upon. Nissan pulled out of Motor Racing shortly afterwards, and so there was no purpose for 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^[36] 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

• 1600/160K – 1.6 L G16 I4
  • 100 PS (99 hp; 74 kW) / 135 N⋅m (14 kg⋅m; 100 lb⋅ft)
• 1800/180K – 1.8 L G18 I4
  • 105 PS (104 hp; 77 kW) / 150 N⋅m (15 kg⋅m; 111 lb⋅ft)
• 2000GT – 2.0 L L20A I6
  • 115 PS (113 hp; 85 kW) / 162 N⋅m (17 kg⋅m; 119 lb⋅ft) (single carburetor regular gasoline)
  • 120 PS (118 hp; 88 kW) / 167 N⋅m (17 kg⋅m; 123 lb⋅ft) (single carburetor high octane gasoline)
• 2000GT-X – 2.0 L L20A I6
  • 125 PS (123 hp; 92 kW) / 167 N⋅m (17 kg⋅m; 123 lb⋅ft) (dual carburetors regular gasoline)
  • 130 PS (128 hp; 96 kW) / 172 N⋅m (18 kg⋅m; 127 lb⋅ft) (dual carburetors high octane gasoline)
• 2000GT-E/GTX-E – 2.0 L L20E I6 (fuel injected)
  • 130 PS (128 hp; 96 kW) / 167 N⋅m (17 kg⋅m; 123 lb⋅ft)
• 2000GT-R – 2.0 L S20 I6
  • 155 PS (153 hp; 114 kW) / 173 N⋅m (18 kg⋅m; 128 lb⋅ft) (regular gasoline)
  • 160 PS (158 hp; 118 kW) / 177 N⋅m (18 kg⋅m; 131 lb⋅ft) (high octane gasoline)
• 240K – 2.4 L L24 I6
  • 122 PS (120 hp; 90 kW) / 187 N⋅m (19 kg⋅m; 138 lb⋅ft) (1975–1978 European model)^[35]
  • 130 PS (128 hp; 96 kW) / 196 N⋅m (20 kg⋅m; 145 lb⋅ft)

Body styles

• Sedan
  • C110/1HC110 - Pre-facelift 1.6L sedan
  • BC111 - Facelift 1.6L sedan
  • PC110/1PC110 - Pre-facelift 1.8L sedan
  • HC111 - Facelift 1.8L sedan
  • GC110/1GC110 - Pre-facelift 2.0L sedan
  • GC111 - Facelift 2.0L sedan
  • HGC110 - Datsun 240K sedan
• Hardtop
  • KC110/1KBC110 - Pre-facelift 1.6L hardtop
  • KBC111 - Facelift 1.6L hardtop
  • KPC110/1KHC110 - Pre-facelift 1.8L hardtop
  • KHC111 - Facelift 1.8L hardtop
  • KGC110/1KGC110 - Pre-facelift 2.0L hardtop
  • KGC111 - Facelift 2.0L hardtop
  • KPGC110 - 2000GT-R
  • KHGC110 - Datsun 240K hardtop
• Wagon/Van:
  • VC110/1VBC110 - 1.6L van
  • VPC110 - 1.8L van
  • WPC110 - 1.8L wagon

Australia

Nissan Australia launched the R30 sedan in November 1981, with standard air conditioning, AM/FM radio cassette stereo, digital clock, intermittent wipers, five-speed manual or optional three-speed automatic.^[45] This was fully imported from Japan.^[46][47] The Liftbacks were released to the market in August 1982.^[47] The facelift model launched in Australia during November 1983.^[48] Notably, configurations of the R30 sold in Australia and New Zealand were missing the traditional hotplate tail lights, instead opting for more conventional styling.

South Africa

When entering the South African market in late 1982, Skylines were still sold as Datsuns. About a year after being introduced, the Nissan changeover took place. In addition to 2-liter models (sedans and liftbacks), the R30 Datsun Skyline was also available with the 2.8-liter "six" in the GTX Hardtop (the only coupé on offer). Along with the Nissan nameplate the four-door 2.8 GLX was added, using a two-barrel Hitachi carburetor. There was also a GL version, and in May 1984 the four-door GT version arrived. This was sportier than the GLX, benefitting from the GTX suspension and a Weber carburetor, but cost less than the GTX due to less equipment and having drums at the rear. The South African range was lightly facelifted for the 1986 model year, with a luxurious 2.8 SGL replacing the GLX and with the GT discontinued. Automatic transmission became available in the GTX Hardtop and also in the top-of-the-line SGLi sedan (which was not offered with a manual). The R30 was replaced by the R31 Skyline in mid-1987.

2-liter cars have the four-cylinder L20B engine; equipment levels include GL, and GLE-X, and there was also the Skyline 1800 L at the bottom of the ladder.

RS

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 2 October 1981 as more of a stripped-down lightweight racer, without as many luxury extras included (quoted curb weight was only 1,130 kg (2,491 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 6,000 rpm and 181 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,800 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 6,400 rpm (measured on a gross basis) and 225 N⋅m (166 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,800 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) it also included a driver's seat with multi-way power lumbar adjustment, anti-skid control, fog lamps, rear deck spoiler and other features such as dimmable instrument cluster lighting; 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 hood now sloped down to two narrow slits above a facelifted front bumper and airdam.

Further enhancements were made for 1984, most notably the addition of an air-to-air intercooler allowing the compression ratio to be increased from 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 with revised turbocharger exhaust housing to the FJ20ET powered model increasing output to 205 PS (151 kW; 202 hp) of power at 6,400 rpm (gross) and 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The intercooled model was nicknamed the Turbo C. The Turbo C formed the basis for the Super Silhouette race car built by GT-R Works and sponsored by Tomica and run in the All Japan Sports Prototype Championship under FIA Group C regulations.^{[citation needed]}

An automatic transmission option was also added 1984. 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 DR30 achieved success in Australian touring car racing during the mid-1980s. The factory backed Peter Jackson Nissan Team made its Group A debut in the opening round of the 1986 Australian Touring Car Championship, and over the 10 round series, lead driver George Fury would win four of the rounds and it was only unreliability in the first two rounds that cost Fury the title, finishing only 5 points behind the Volvo 240T of Robbie Francevic. Fury then went on to finish second to the BMW of Jim Richards in the 1986 Australian Endurance Championship, winning four of the six rounds, though failures to finish in the opening round at Amaroo Park in Sydney, as well as a DNF at the James Hardie 1000 at Bathurst cost him the title. Team driver Garry Scott put the DR30 on pole for the James Hardie 1000 before going on to finish third with young charger Glenn Seton.^[49] Despite missing out on the drivers' title, Nissan won the 1986 Australian Manufacturers' Championship from BMW. Fury finished off 1986 by finishing second to the V8 Holden Commodore of Allan Grice in the Group A support race for the Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide.

Fury was joined in 1987 Australian Touring Car Championship by Glenn Seton. While Fury had a frustrating first half of the championship, Seton battled it out with the BMW M3 of Richards for the title. The series came down to the last race at Sydney's Oran Park Raceway where Richards used the nimble M3 to defeat Seton and win his second ATCC in three years. With Fury finishing third in the championship, this saw Nissan sharing victory with BMW in the 1987 Australian Manufacturers' Championship.^[50] The final competitive race for the Peter Jackson Nissan DR30s came in the Group A support race for the 1987 Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide where Fury again finished second behind the Ford Sierra RS500 of Dick Johnson.

The 340 bhp (254 kW; 345 PS) DR30 continued to be used by privateer racers in Australian touring car racing until 1989.

Models: (Japan)

• 1800TI – 1.8 L Z18S SOHC I4, 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp), later models 1.8 L CA18E SOHC I4, 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
• 2000TI – 2.0 L CA20E SOHC I4
• 2000TI – 2.0 L Z20E SOHC I4
• 2000GT and Passage – 2.0 L L20E SOHC I6
• 2000GT Turbo, Passage and Paul Newman Version – 2.0 L L20ET turbo I6, 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp)
• RS – 2.0 L FJ20E DOHC I4, 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp), 181 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft)
• RS-X and RS-X Turbo C – 2.0 L FJ20ET DOHC turbo I4, 190–205 PS (140–151 kW; 187–202 hp), 225–245 N⋅m (166–181 lb⋅ft)
• 200D GT – 2.0 L LD20 SOHC I4 diesel
• 280D GT – 2.8 L LD28 SOHC I6 diesel

GTS-R

The ultimate version of the R31 was the RB20DET-R powered HR31 GTS-R Coupe of which 823^[53] units were built to allow an homologation "evolution" mode for Group A Touring Car racing. Introduced in late 1987, 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. It had a factory-claimed maximum output of 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp), with racing versions making over 430 hp (321 kW; 436 PS) in Group A trim, though this was still at least 110 hp (82 kW; 112 PS) less than the leading Group A car of the time, the Ford Sierra RS500 (which had approximately the same weight as the Nissan), and around 70 hp (52 kW; 71 PS) less than the heavier (by around 225 kg (496 lb)) V8 Holden Commodore.

Jim Richards and Mark Skaife drove a Gibson Motor Sport prepared Skyline GTS-R to win the 1989 Sandown 500 in Australia. Richards also used the GTS-R in 6 of the 8 races to win the 1990 Australian Touring Car Championship (he used the R32 GT-R in the final two rounds of the series). It was the first Australian Touring Car Championship victory for a Nissan driver after George Fury placed second in 1983 and 1986 and Glenn Seton gained second position in 1987.

Models

Japanese market:

• 1800 C, 1800 Excel and 1800 Passage – 1.8 L CA18S SOHC I4, 90 hp (67 kW; 91 PS)
• GT Excel D, GT Passage D – 2.8 L Diesel RD28 SOHC I6, 92 hp (69 kW; 93 PS), 173 N⋅m (128 lb⋅ft)
• GT Excel, GT Passage – 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 128 hp (95 kW; 130 PS)
• GT Excel Twin Cam 24V, GT Passage Twin Cam 24V – 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (116 kW; 157 PS)
• GT Passage Turbo – 2.0 L RB20ET SOHC turbo I6, 167 hp (125 kW; 169 PS), 206 N⋅m (152 lb⋅ft)
• GT Passage Twin Cam 24V Turbo – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS), 225 N⋅m (166 lb⋅ft)
• GTS – 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (116 kW; 157 PS)
• GTS Turbo – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC I6, 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS), 225 N⋅m (166 lb⋅ft)
• GTS-X – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS), 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft)
• GTS-R – 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS), 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft)
• GTS Autech – 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS), 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft)
• Tommykaira M20 – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC I6, 217 hp (162 kW; 220 PS), 255 N⋅m (188 lb⋅ft)
• Tommykaira M30 – 3.0 L RB30DE DOHC I6, 236.5 hp (176 kW; 240 PS), 294 N⋅m (217 lb⋅ft)^[52]

Australian market:

• Pintara GLi, Executive, GX, & GXE – 2.0 L CA20E I4, 106 PS (78 kW; 105 hp), 160 N⋅m (118 lb⋅ft)
• GX, Executive, GXE, Silhouette, Ti – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 155 PS (114 kW; 153 hp), 247 N⋅m (182 lb⋅ft) Initially quoted as 117 kW, 252 N⋅m but later revised
• Silhouette GTS1 – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) , 255 N⋅m (188 lb⋅ft)
• Silhouette GTS2 – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp), 270 N⋅m (199 lb⋅ft)

South African market:

• 2.0GL, 2.0GLE – 2.0 L CA20S I4, 106 hp (79 kW; 107 PS), 163 N⋅m (120 lb⋅ft)
• 2.0SGLi – 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS), 174 N⋅m (128 lb⋅ft)
• 3.0SGLi – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 171 hp (128 kW; 173 PS), 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft)

GT-R

The R32 GT-R was first produced in 1988 including prototype cars. The first six Nismos were built in 1989. The other 554 NISMO GT-Rs were all built in 1990 and were all Gunmetal Grey in color. The RB26DETT engine actually produced ≈320 PS (316 hp),^[62] but it was understated 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,^[63] and then muzzled by the exhaust, boost restriction, and ECU. After this increase the car would put out ≈310 hp (≈230 kW) and could do 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.8 seconds.^{[citation needed]}

The GT-R had a significantly larger intercooler, larger brakes, and aluminum front guards and hood. 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 Ito, 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".^[64] Best Motoring managed 8'22"38.^[65]

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.^[66] It took 50 races from 50 starts from 1991 to 1997 (latterly R33) in the N1 Super Taikyu.

The R32 GT-R was introduced into 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 the 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 four-piston calipers used by Nissan were not competitive. After the rules changed to allow 17-inch wheels, the GT-R V-spec (for Victory) emerged in February 1993 wearing 17" BBS mesh wheels (225/50/17) covering larger Brembo calipers. The clutch actuation changed from a push to a pull system and the car had a standard mechanical rear differential (the electronic rear differential did not show up until the R33 V-Spec). A year later, the V-Spec II appeared with a new sticker and wider tires (245/45 17).^[67]

The Nismo Skyline GT-R is a limited (500 street, 60 racing) version of Nissan Skyline with Nissan RB engine with twin steel turbochargers rated 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 6,800 rpm and 353 N⋅m (260 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm, HICAS all-wheel steering, electronically controlled ATTESA all-wheel drive.^[68]

In August 2014, the first R32 Skyline GT-Rs became eligible for US import under the NHTSA "25 year" rule, which allows vehicles that are at least 25 years old (to the month of manufacture) to be imported. These vehicles, due to their age do not have to comply with federal emissions or with federal motor vehicle safety standards.^[69]

1996 facelift

The R33 Skyline (Spec 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's turbo was also given a nylon compressor wheel to improve response. 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 spec 2 were, the headlights which tapered down more towards the grill and were fitted with improved reflectors, the grill (which was longer on the Spec 1), the hood 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 Spec 2 also had the option of having an Active-LSD fitted.

The R33 ceased production in February 1998, the production run ending with the 40th Anniversary R33.

• 
  1993–1996 Nissan Skyline (R33) GTS-25t coupé
• 
  1994 Nissan Skyline R33 GTS Sedan
• 
  R33 Skyline interior (GTS-25t Type M)

GT-R

The previous R32 model was a well proven build, but the R32 wasn't without faults and suffered with uplift and balance issues. Along with that, Nissan was, as other Japanese companies were, under strict restrictions on power gains. So, to combat all those areas, Nissan created the sophisticated strength Programme. Nissan increased the width by about one inch on the R33 to the R32 and made it about 4 inches longer. This gave the R33 a longer wheelbase overall and lower stance mixed with new technology now from the computer aerodynamic age. Each line on the R33 was intended to give the car ultimate aerodynamics with wider gaps in the bumper and angles of air movement which allowed better cooling, in addition to the fuel tank lifted; the battery moved to the trunk. Rigidity points were added mixed with improvements on the Attessa and Hicas all now offered the R33 with the best aerodynamics, balance, and handling. Nissan engineers also found other ways to reduce weight, even by a few grams.

This includes: Hollowing out the side door beams. Using high tensile steel on body panels. Reduction in sound deadening materials. Super HICAS becoming electric. Hollowing out of rear stabilizer bar. Use of high tensile springs front and rear. Shrinking the ABS actuator. Light aluminum wheels with higher rigidity The front and rear axles were made of aluminum (as in the BNR32), but so were engine mount insulators and brackets. New plastics were used for: fuel tank, head lamps, super high strength "PP" bumpers, air cleaner, changing the headlining material, changing material of rear spoiler. All this put together meant we saw an improved time against the R32 of 21 seconds faster around the Nürburgring and 23 seconds faster in V spec trim, still making the R33 the fastest Skyline around the Nürburgring. 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.^[71] 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 406 PS (298 kW; 400 hp) from a road-tuned version of Nissan's Le Mans engine.^[72] A stronger six-speed Getrag gearbox was used.

An R33 GT-R driven by Dirk Schoysman lapped the Nordschleife in less than 8 minutes. The Skyline GT-R R33 is reported to be the first production car to break 8 minutes, at 7 minutes and 59 seconds. Other manufacturers had caught up since the R32 was released, and the R33 never dominated motorsport to the extent of the R32. The R33 saw victory in the JGTC GT500 dominating the class and taking victory each year until its final racing year in which it was finally beaten by the McLaren F1 GTR.

The R33 saw huge favour in the tuning world with it being a popular model on the Wangan and top tuning companies building heavily tuned version from Top Secret ran by Smokey Nagata to Jun etc. and later by companies like Sumo. HKS GT-R would hold a drag series record for several years in their drag series, making a record win of 7.671-second pass at Sendai Hi-Land Raceway with Tetsuya Kawasaki behind the wheel and taking it to be the world's fastest AWD car.

Models:

• GT-R – 2.6 L RB26DETT DOHC twin-turbo I6, 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp), 375 N⋅m (277 lb⋅ft) 4WD
• GT-R LM – 2.6 L RB26DETT DOHC twin-turbo I6, 305 PS (224 kW; 301 hp) FR
• NISMO 400R – 2.8 L RBX-GT2 DOHC twin-turbo I6, 400 PS (294 kW; 395 hp), 478 N⋅m (353 lb⋅ft) 4WD - intended to be produced in a limited run of just 100 cars, although only 44 were ever built.^[73]
• 4Dr. GT-R Autech Version – 2.6 L RB26DETT DOHC twin-turbo I6, 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp), 375 N⋅m (277 lb⋅ft) 4WD - only 447 made^[74]

GT-R (BNR34)

The GT-R reappeared in January 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. 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 ATTESA E-TS Pro AWD)

• GT-R – 2.6 L RB26DETT twin-turbo I6, 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) advertised
• GT-R V·spec – Additional aero parts, brake ventilation ducts, diffuser, ALSD.
• GT-R V·spec UK – V·spec with three additional oil coolers, an extra measurement on the MFD, leather interior, new features on the display (Only 80 made).
• GT-R V·spec N1 - V·spec with Blueprinted N1 motor, no A/C, no stereo, no rear wiper, basic interior trim. (only 45 made)
• GT-R V·spec II – As V·spec + carbon fiber hood with NACA duct.
• GT-R V·spec II N1 – V·spec II with N1 motor, no A/C, no stereo, no rear wiper, basic interior trim. (only 18 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 speedometer. (only 750 made)
• GT-R M·spec Nür – As above M·spec + N1 motor, 300 km/h speedometer. (only 253 made)
• GT-R NISMO S-tune- The S-tune - Tuning package from Nismo, targeting street drivers that want to bring out the "potential" of their GT-R.
• GT-R NISMO R-tune- Same as the S-tune, the R-tune is further modified with more emphasize towards circuit racing. (Only 3 made)
• GT-R NISMO Z-tune – 2.8 L (bored and stroked) 'RB28DETT' twin-turbo I6, 500 PS (368 kW; 493 hp), 540 N⋅m (398 lb⋅ft) Z1 and Z2 (Only 20 made)

Skyline GT-R M·spec (2001–02)

The M·spec is a version of the Nissan Skyline GT-R with ripple control shock absorbers, M·spec-specific leather seat (front/rear seat, with front seat heater), 3-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, and a choice of four body colors (including Silica Breath (RPM/multi flex color)).

The vehicle went on sale on 8 May 2001.^[78]

Skyline GT-R M·spec Nür, V·spec II Nür (2002)

The M·spec Nür and V·spec II Nür are limited (1000 units) versions of the Nissan Skyline GT-R with Super Taikyu N1 spec engine, for the Japanese market. It includes a 300 km/h speedometer, 3d grade name emblem, and an additional body color option (Millennium Jade Metallic).

The vehicles went on sale on 26 February 2002.^[78]

Production

Production of the Skyline GT-R type R34 ended on 29 August 2002.

Since the beginning of Skyline GT-R M·spec Nür and V·spec II Nür sales, 25% of vehicles sold were M・spec Nür, 75 of vehicles sold were V·spec II Nür. Millennium Jade, White Pearl, and White body colors have been used on 28%, 22%, 16% of M·spec Nür and V·spec II Nür vehicles respectively.^[79]

Marketing

As part of the Type R34 GT-R final campaign, all Skyline GT-R customers received an official GT-R photo album before 24 January 2002.^[78]

United States

A small number of R34 GT-Rs are legal in the United States despite not being compliant with the NHTSA 25-year rule prior to 2024. An importer called Motorex crash-tested an R33, submitted emissions paperwork and certification to the Environmental Protection Agency, and modified others to meet US approval. The company ran into legal trouble after importing R32 and R34 models, but telling the government they were R33s. Motorex also stopped making the required modifications (safety, US-spec gauges and reflectors, etc.) needed in order for the cars to be sold in the US. After a 2005 raid on the company, Motorex was shut down. The government then sent letters to the owners of the disputed cars and made them US legal, since the cars were imported under false pretenses. An estimated twelve R34 GT-Rs are US-legal as a result of this.^[80]

In 2018, the first R34 GT-R was legally imported under the FMVSS's "Show & Display" exemption.^[81] Currently, only the first 282 V-Spec GT-Rs produced for 1999, finished in LV4 Midnight Purple II paint, and the 285 M-Spec Nür models, as well as the 38 V-Spec N1 models and the 18 V-Spec II N1 models finished in QM1 White are eligible under this exemption.^[82] However, only a minimum of 199 of the 11,578 models of the R34 GT-R produced from 1999 to 2004 had been painted in LV4 Midnight Purple II according to GT-R Registry claims.^[83]

The R34 GT-R would become legally importable in 2024 under the 25-year rule.^[84][85] This came to pass in January 2024 with the first R34 GT-R models manufactured in January 1999, which had turned 25 years old by then. These vehicles do not have to comply with any federal safety and emissions regulations due to their age, and are eligible for legal import into the United States.^[69] R34 GT-Rs manufactured from 2000 to 2004 will become legal for US import starting in 2025 up to 2029.

XVL concept (1999)

The XVL concept is a concept car demonstrating the FR L-class platform. It includes a 3.0L V6 direct-injection gasoline engine and sedan body. The vehicle was unveiled at the 1999 Tokyo Auto Show.^[97]

Changes

For 2003 the design of the radiator grille, headlamp inner panels, and sills were altered. The interior and mirrors were altered, while the suspension and braking systems were also refined. The Skyline Coupe was introduced as a version of Nissan Skyline Sport Coupe for Japanese market. Also, the Skyline 350GT went on sale. It is a version of the Skyline V35 sport sedan with a six-speed manual transmission for the Japanese market, only available with the 3.5-liter engine. The Skyline 350GT and Skyline 350GT Premium sedan went on sale on 3 June 2003.^[98]

For 2004 both coupe and sedans were altered, with updated interiors and improved transmissions. The five-speed automatic transmission on the 350GT Premium now included synchro rev control, while the 6-speed manual transmission was made to vibrate less. For the sedan, the front grill/bumper, foot panel, head lamp, rear bumper, and rear combination lamps were changed. The front seats received active headrest, while the rear middle seat now have a three-point seat belt as standard. There were also some new wheels and a 19-inch option for the coupé. The Skyline's 2005 update again included changes to the head and rear lamps, front bumper, and side sill protectors. Also, 19-inch aluminum alloy wheel became standard for automatic transmission cars. A "plasma cluster ion" full air conditioner with left/right independent temperature settings, heated door mirrors, headlamp auto levelizer (compliant with new legislation) was made standard equipment.

Body styles

Initial release

The Skyline Sedan went on sale on 11 November 2006, with an update to the Skyline Coupe beginning in fall 2007. Early models included the 250GT, 250GT FOUR, and 350GT.^[99][100] The model ditched the round headlights of the V35 for sharper looking units.

It was first available only as a 4-door sedan in Japan and was also sold in the US as the 2007 Infiniti G35.

On 13 May 2008, Nissan announced that a convertible variant of the Infiniti G37 (US Spec Skyline coupe) would be produced for the 2009 model year. The convertible is not available in Japan.

• 
  2010 Nissan Skyline Sedan 250GT (V36, Japan)
• 
  Interior

2007 update

Sedan changes include:

• Scratch shield body paint for all body color
• New body color crystal white pearl (3-coat pearl) is added for a total of six color choices
• Uses Skyline Coupe mirror
• Aluminum finisher color change
• Rear middle seat includes adjustable headrest, door lower soft touch material
• V6 engine model uses VQ35HR engine, 5-speed automatic transmission
• Intelligent air conditioner as standard equipment (except 250GT, 250GT FOUR)
• Active ABS as standard equipment
• curtain airbag, side airbag at front seats as standard equipment

2008 update

Coupe changes include:

• Scratch shield body paint for all body color
• New body color crystal white pearl (3-coat pearl) is added for a total of seven color choices
• Walk-in level color change
• Door grip finisher handle change
• Intelligent air conditioner, privacy glass as standard equipment

The vehicles went on sale on 2 December 2008. Early Sedan models include the 250GT, 250GT FOUR, and 370GT. Early Coupe models include the 370GT.^[126]

Skyline Crossover (DBA-J50, DBA-NJ50)

See also: Infiniti QX50 § J50

Introduced in 2009, the Skyline Crossover is based on the Infiniti EX37, for Japan market. The vehicle was unveiled at Nissan Galleries nationwide beginning on 18 April 2009,^{[127][128][129]} and later with all seven body color variants at Nissan Galleries.^[130]

Sales of the Skyline Crossover began on 13 July 2009. Early models include the 370GT (Type P) and 370GT FOUR (Type P).^{[131][132][133]}

Four-wheel drive is standard on 370GT FOUR models. 18-inch wheels are standard for all model ranges.

2010 update

Skyline 55th Limited Edition (2011–2013)

The sedan version of 55th Limited is a limited (555 units) edition of Skyline sedan, commemorating 55th anniversary of Nissan Skyline.^[136][137] Changes include anniversary edition red leather seats with front seat heater, 55th anniversary embroidering at front seats, black interior and garnet black (pearl) exterior.

Sedan version, covering the 250GT Type P, 250GT FOUR Type P, and 370GT Type SP, went on sale between 19 December 2011 and 30 April 2013 for ¥3,990,000, ¥4,221,000, and ¥4,515,000, respectively.^[138]

The Coupe version is a limited (55 units) edition of Skyline 370GT coupe, commemorating 55th anniversary of Nissan Skyline. Changes are the same as the 55th Limited Edition Skyline Sedan. Covering 370GT Type P and 370GT Type SP, the Coupe version went on sale between 10 February 2012 and 30 April 2013.^[139]

A customized version of Skyline Sedan (with high intensity LEDs and S-tune items, wide, low-center-of-gravity optional parts) was unveiled in the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon.^[140][141]

2014 update

Skyline Cool Exclusive (2015–2016)

The Skyline Cool Exclusive went on sale on 21 December 2015 in Japan.^[154] Based on Skyline sedan models 200GT-t Type P, 200GT-t Type SP, 350GT Hybrid Type P, 350GT Hybrid Type SP, 350GT Four Hybrid Type P, and 350GT Four Hybrid Type SP, it included Stone White high contrast interior (Stone White leather seats, Cool Exclusive door trim in high contrast color, Cool Exclusive console lid in Stone White), aluminum finisher, Midnight Black grille and a BOSE audio system.

Skyline 60th Limited (2016–2017)

The Skyline 60th Limited is a version of Skyline sedan commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Nissan Skyline. Japan models went on sale on 7 November 2016.^[155] Available for models 200GT-t Type SP, 350GT Hybrid Type SP, 350GT Four Hybrid Type SP, it included semi-aniline leather upholstery in all seats, an optional BOSE Performance Series sound system (new tweeters at rear doors, 16 speakers, new front door tweeter) and an aurora flare blue pearl (2-coat pearl) body color option for a total of 9 color choices.^[156]

2017 update

The 2017 update went on sale on 20 December 2017 in Japan.^[157] Changes include redesigned bumper for Type SP, Type P, 350 GT Hybrid models, 9 body colors (including Imperial Amber), new standard Cutting brilliant 19-inch aluminum wheel for Type SP and 18-inch aluminum wheel with chrome color coat for Type P models, reduced size of the horn pad, stitches added to the instrument panel, ring lighting of the analog meter is changed to gray and new Ambient Light System option.

2019 update

The 2019 update went on sale on 16 July 2019 in Japan.^[158] Changes include redesigned front fascia to be more similar to the R35 GT-R, reuse of Nissan logo emblems, rounded taillamps akin to older Skyline models, addition of 3.0 L VR30DDTT twin turbo V6 engine option and discontinuation of Mercedes-Benz 274930 engine option, and introduction of ProPilot 2.0 safety system. This update also reintroduced the "400R" moniker, which is equivalent to the US market Q50 Red Sport 400 grade. The 400R grade has a power output of 405 PS (298 kW; 399 hp) from its VR30DDTT engine.^{[159][160][161]}

• 
  Nissan Skyline GT (RV37, Japan)
• 
  2019 Nissan Skyline Hybrid GT Type SP (HV37, Japan)
• 
  2019 Nissan Skyline 400R (RV37, Japan)
• 
  Interior

Skyline Nismo (2023)

The Skyline Nismo and Skyline Nismo Limited were unveiled on 8 August 2023. The Nismo version is limited to 1,000 units, while the Nismo Limited is limited to 100 units.^[162] These two versions were on sale in early September in Japanese market. It uses the same engine as 400R but tuned by the engineers involved in the development of the GT500 racing class engine.^[163]

• 
  Nissan Skyline Nismo (RV37, Japan)
• 
  Nissan Skyline Nismo (RV37, Japan)