Nissan Skyline GTR R32 “Godzilla”
Year:
1993
Manufacturer:
Nissan Motor Company Ltd, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Japan
Number Produced:
40,390
Specifications:
2600cc RB26DETT DOHC 24 vale 6 cylinder engine
Twin T28 Garrett turbochargers
280hp @ 6800rpm
5 Speed manual gearbox
Description:
The Beginning of the GT-R Legend
The history of the Nissan Skyline GT-R can be traced back to the 1960s, when Prince Motor Company developed the Skyline into a serious competition car. On 3 May 1964, a Skyline finished second through sixth in the second Japanese Grand Prix, with the car famously passing a Porsche 904 during the race. This performance helped establish the Skyline's early competition reputation. Prince was later acquired by Nissan in 1966, with the merger completed in 1967.
The R32 Arrives
The Skyline GT-R returned in 1989 with the introduction of the R32 generation. Powered by Nissan's legendary 2.6-litre RB26DETT twin-turbocharged inline-six, the GT-R combined advanced engine technology with ATTESA E-TS electronically controlled four-wheel drive and Super-HICAS four-wheel steering.
Although officially rated at 280 PS, the engine was widely regarded as capable of considerably more power. The GT-R also featured larger brakes, an intercooler and wider bodywork to accommodate its performance-focused chassis and drivetrain.
Built for Competition
The R32 GT-R quickly established itself as a dominant force in motorsport. Its combination of four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and twin-turbocharged power made it exceptionally capable on the circuit.
At Australia's famous Mount Panorama circuit, the GT-R won the Bathurst 1000 in 1991 and 1992, with New Zealand driver Jim Richards taking victory in both years. The car's dominance contributed to changes in Australian touring-car regulations that ultimately excluded turbocharged four-wheel-drive cars from the category.
A Motorsport Icon
The R32 GT-R also achieved considerable success in Japanese touring-car racing, helping establish the GT-R name as one of the most respected in Japanese motorsport.
Its combination of advanced technology, racing success and enormous tuning potential earned the R32 its famous nickname, "Godzilla", and established the Skyline GT-R as one of the most influential Japanese performance cars of its era.
