In 1989 -1999 there were 3 models of Skyline GT-R produced. The R32, R33, and the R34. Each was equipped with the RB26DETT engine, ATTESA E-TS all wheel drive system, and Nissan's Super HICAS four wheel steering system.

The engine is 2.6 liter, dual overhead cam, 24 valve, intercooled, twin turbo. It produces 276 hp @ 6800rpm, capable of handling over 600 hp without internal modifications.

The R32 GT-R uses the RB26DETT engine, a DOHC inline-6 with 24-valves and a six-throttle inlet manifold. A bore of 86mm in connection with a stroke of 73.7mm make for an overall displacement of 2568cc. A compression ratio of 8.5:1, twin T28 Garrett turbochargers and a large front-mounted intercooler help the RB26DETT produce 280hp at 6800rpm and 360Nm (260lb-ft) of torque at 4400rpm.

ATTESA-ETS

The ATTESA E-TS system an electronically controlled all wheel drive system (AWD). When the computer senses a loss of traction it automatically sends up to 50% of the torque to the front wheels. Under normal conditions the car remains rear wheel drive.

The R33 and R34 are available with ATTESA E-TS Pro. The Pro system includes a more aggressively controlled torque splitting computer and an electronically controlled limited slip differential in the rear end.

AWD (All-Wheel-Drive)

The GT-R uses an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. A 16-bit microprocessor monitors the car's movements a 100 times per second, including wheel rotation and lateral as well as longitudinal acceleration. When slip is detected at a driving wheel, the system electronically distributes torque from this spinning wheel to one without slip.

In the GT-R, the electronic AWD-system offers the advantage that actions are responded to faster than by a viscous-coupling-system. In standard setup, ATTESA-ETS distributes the torque to the rear-wheels, but when slip is detected on one of those rear-wheels, it can distribute up to 50% of the torque to the front wheels, i.e. it can adjust the front/rear torque-split from 0:100 to 50:50. In the rear-wheels, the active LSD can further distribute the torque from one wheel to the other if necessary. As a result of this setup, the Skyline GT-R can even drift, although it is an AWD car.

Suspension

The R32 GT-R uses a multi-link suspension front and rear. Road-holding and especially the steering is further improved by the Skyline's all-wheel-steering system Super HICAS.

With components like AWD, RB motor, and HICAS system; the R32 was truly the first super car.

Skyline Style Features

The Skyline is instantly recognizable by automotive enthusiasts.

The rear-end is highly distinctive with the twin round tail-lights common to all R32 series Skylines. The GT-R rear can only be distinguished from the standard coupe by its larger wing and the GT-R badge.

Skyline styling feels quite simple and inconspicuous. It is a true sleeper because there is no real hint for outsiders to show what this car is really capable of. In reality, the aggressive front spoiler, the bulges and the rear wing are no exaggerated design tricks, but functional features directly taken from racing. Every component was purposefully engineered. It was built to win.

The Skyline possesses excellent ergonomics, the instruments are comprehensive, with additional front-torque and oil-temperature gauges in the center console, which are quite useful for track-use.

Final Thoughts

The R32 GT-R was developed for racing, yet processes good street manners. The RB26DETT is one of the finest engines ever to be placed in a road car. Launching the Skyline from standstill to 60 mph will take 4.7 seconds. The steering is precise and offers good feel. Overall the R32's response feel quicker than on later models, this is partly due to the fact that this car is at least 50kg lighter than its successors. Quickness does not come easy, though. The GT-R is a true driving machine and as such it responds best when driven aggressively.

Very few of us will be able to own and experience the excitement of a true super car, especially one like the Skyline. JDM-Imports goal is to turn your dream car into reality. For the price of a standard vehicle with basic features, you can finally own the sports car of your dreams.