Few cars come as close to perfection as the Nissan Skyline GT-R. The R34 is the final installment in a long line of Japanese excellence that endeared this vehicle to the hearts of many JDM enthusiasts and earned it a reputation as perhaps one of the greatest sports cars ever ever done
While some may have an individual preference for the likes of the Toyota Supra Mk4 or the Mazda RX-7, it’s impossible to deny the Skyline’s cultural significance as an icon of the JDM scene. Even today, its boxy frame and impressive front end still turn the heads of anyone lucky enough to witness the R34 in action.
While the R34 is revered for being a playground to modify and boost, the factory Skyline remains legendary in its own right. Powered by a twin-turbo 2.6-liter inline-six engine with 276 horsepower, the R34 was a street demon even without any tweaks. But you’d be hard-pressed to find any GT-R without any modifications.
The R34 is one of the most adaptable vehicles ever made. Even an amateur mechanic can transform his stock Skyline into a car that reminds you of something you see fast and furious movie The Skyline R34 has been succeeded by the new Nissan GT-R, but here are ten reasons why the R34 remains a legend among legends in the JDM world.
10 Prohibited products
Silver Skyline R 34 Nismo Edition during a drive.
Due to differences between Japanese and American motor vehicle safety compliance laws, the R34 is effectively illegal in the United States. For years, many Americans imported thousands of “gray market” vehicles like the Skyline and would pay more to bring these imported vehicles under American regulations. However, after the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988, imports like the R34 became completely illegal in the United States.
This only helped increase interest in the R34, as the smuggled car was now wanted for its illegal status. Those who knew the greatness associated with the GT-R line would develop workarounds to legally bring the legendary platform to the United States. Some of these include using it solely as a racing car or show car, and even registering it as a completely different class of vehicle. Still, the R34’s illicit label only made the forbidden fruit that much sweeter.
9 Powerful engine
Nissan R34 Skyline GT-R engine compartment image
The Skyline is revered for its powerful 2.6-liter inline-six engine. The same engine that shocked the world by defeating the long-time V-8 favorites in the Australian Touring Car Championship. The R34’s power led to rumors as to why it was banned in the United States, with some claiming that the engine was “too powerful” for American roads, or that the R34 could too easily overtake cars from the american police.
While these are just rumours, as we discussed the real reason for the R34 ban earlier, the 276 horsepower generated by the RB26DETT engine could certainly be a concern for the quieter driver.
8 Popular culture icon
Easily one of the best cases for the R34 being in a league of its own is its reputation as a pop culture icon. It proudly appears in popular franchises like fast and furious, Initial Di Need for speedthe R34 was probably the car that introduced many to the world of JDM cars.
The striking square silhouette, accentuated by the extra-large rear wing, makes the GT-R one of the most easily recognizable JDM cars rivaled only by the Toyota Supra Mk4. It’s no secret that seeing Brian O’Conner pull past the brown Supra Mk4 in his R34 during the first race of 2 Fast 2 Furious awakened a generation to the greatness of the GT-R family.
7 Easy modding
Filmed under the hood of a Skyline R 34 with Z Tune Engine
Another reason why the R34 is so popular is because it is modding friendly. Even hobby mechanics jump at the chance to work on a GT-R, as even a basic map can take the 276 horsepower to over 400 horsepower. In addition, the cosmetic changes to the R34 are also quite simple with its square frame and simple construction. Many mechanics compare working on a Skyline to playing with it LEGOs. Everything falls into place.
6 A unique driving experience
Image of a Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 driving down the road
One of the reasons why the R34 is so coveted by racers and enthusiasts is its unmatched driving experience. The R34 is a responsive, nimble car and surprisingly light on the road despite its weight. The power of the inline-six engine can be felt by giving the car a little gas as it wakes up, and the big 18-inch wheels grip the road below the driver. Shifting is smooth, without hiccups, and the car leaves the driver on the road. There is a connection between the driver, the car and the road that is often lost in many newer sports cars. Yet decades later, the R34 remains a master of this lost art.
5 Retro-futuristic multi-function screen
Interior shot of a Nissan Skyline GT-R 34 showing the multi-function display
The R34 features a multi-function display that provides readouts for oil temperature, lap times and more. While in the 90s these gave the R34 a futuristic look and were certainly ahead of their time, the graphics look pretty dated now. However, for those who enjoy a retro feel, the retro-futurism offered by the display and interior as a whole gives the R34 a charm that can’t be found in many other cars of its era. Some may find the display gimmicky or tacky, but others will find it just one more reason to love the Skyline over the rest.
4 Supercar Price Tag
Studio shot of a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
The R34 has an average price of approximately $165,905. A six-figure price for a car over 20 years old may seem unusual, but a legendary vehicle certainly has a legendary cost. While most may not see the inflated list price of an R34 as a reason to own one, the price only adds to its appeal as the average JDM enthusiast could only dream of owning one . If you were financially well off enough to buy an R34, you’d be the envy of almost everyone at any local car meet.
3 Timeless quality
Side and rear view of the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34.
Despite its age, the R34 holds up well with a sporty yet robust build. The weight of the car tends to favor the rear, but in fair conditions the car is always pleasant to drive. The interior is also quite nice. With leather seats that contain plenty of cushions so you almost forget about the plastic frame surrounding them, a multi-function display with retro appeal and an interior cabin that allows the driver to feel connected to the road, but isolated from the environment outdoor. .
2 Variety of options
Image of a Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 at the Port
While the stock GT-R is a treat on its own, Nissan also included special edition versions of the legendary car with varying degrees of modification and tuning. The most famous is the top-of-the-line GT-R Nismo, of which only 19 were produced. Nissan also produced the V (which stands for Victory), Z-Tune, M-Spec and Nur models.
Each offers an added bonus over the stock option, like the V’s three extra oil coolers, a stiffer suspension, and extra fenders. Unlike other JDM contemporaries, the Skyline offered options. Thus cementing itself as a cut above the rest of the competition.
1 The final masterpiece
Driver’s side front three-quarter view of a Nissan R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R
The Skyline R 34 is the latest installment in a legacy of greatness that cemented itself as a legendary vehicle not only in the JDM world but throughout the automotive industry. While the current Nissan GTR is a real and spiritual successor to the Skyline, the R34 remains an example of excellence and is revered not only as a superb vehicle, but also as a cultural icon for cars sports and Japanese domestics.
