Nissan GT-R and Skyline: from origins to modern times - a complete comparison of two legends

When it comes to Japanese sports cars, two names are heard more often than others - Nissan GT-R And Skyline. These models have become symbols of engineering excellence, racing victories and tuning culture. But what unites them, and what makes them unique? Why GT-R R35 called "Godzilla" Skyline GT-R R32 - the king of drift of the 90s?

In this article, we will dive into the history of both models, compare their technical characteristics, understand the nuances of buying used copies and reveal the secrets of tuning. You'll find out why the RB26DETT engine from the Skyline R32 is still considered one of the most reliable for boostinghow the system evolved ATTESA E-TS in the GT-R, and what pitfalls await owners when operating these cars in Russia.

Model History: From the 1957 Skyline to the GT-R R35

First Nissan Skyline appeared in 1957 as a luxury sedan, but the sports versions brought real fame to the brand. He made his debut in 1964 Skyline 2000 GT with engine G-7, which became the first Japanese car to win an international race. However, the real turning point occurred in 1989 with the release Skyline R32 GT-R - a car banned in many countries due to its dominant speed.

Regarding GT-R, then this name was originally an abbreviation for "Gran Turismo Racer". In 1969 the first Skyline GT-R (KPGC10), but as a separate model Nissan GT-R debuted only in 2007 with generation R35. This car became the first Japanese supercar that could compete with European brands in terms of dynamics and technology.

• 📅 1957 - release of the first Prince Skyline (predecessor to Nissan)
• 🏆 1964–1972 - victories Skyline GT-R (KPGC10) in 50 races in a row
• 🚗 1989 - debut Skyline R32 GT-R with the system ATTESA
• 💥 2007 - exit Nissan GT-R R35 with engine VR38DETT

Interestingly, until 2007 GT-R was part of the line Skyline, but after leaving R35 became an independent model. This decision by Nissan was explained by the desire to create a global brand, not tied to the Japanese market. Today GT-R sold all over the world, while Skyline remains exclusive to Japan (except for rare re-exports).

Specs: Skyline GT-R vs GT-R R35 Comparison

Despite common roots, Skyline GT-R (For example, R32 or R34) and GT-R R35 - fundamentally different cars. The first is built on a sedan platform, the second is a full-fledged supercar with rear-wheel drive (albeit with all-wheel drive). Let's compare the key parameters:

Parameter	Skyline GT-R R32 (1989–1994)	Skyline GT-R R34 (1999–2002)	GT-R R35 (2007–present)
Engine	RB26DETT 2.6L I6 twin-turbo	RB26DETT 2.6L I6 twin-turbo	VR38DETT 3.8L V6 twin-turbo
Power (drain)	280 hp*	280 hp*	480–600 hp
Drive	ATTESA (full)	ATTESA E-TS Pro (full)	ATTESA E-TS (full)
Gearbox	5-speed manual	6-speed manual	6-speed "robot" GR6
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	5.6 s	4.9 s	2.7–3.0 s

*Official power Skyline GT-R was limited by a “gentlemen's agreement” of Japanese manufacturers at 280 hp, but real figures reached 320–350 hp. thanks to the engine's safety factor.

Main difference GT-R R35 - him aluminum monocoque (y Skyline - steel platform) and engine VR38DETT, which was originally developed for the racing program Nissan in Le Mans. All-wheel drive system ATTESA in R35 has become more “smart”: it distributes torque not only between the axles, but also between the wheels of the same axle (system VDC).

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline GT-R R32/R34 pay attention to the condition of the turbines - the resource of the original Garrett T25 rarely exceeds 80–100 thousand km. B GT-R R35 turbines IHI are more reliable, but replacing them costs 150–200 thousand rubles per set.

Tuning culture: what can be squeezed out of the RB26 and VR38?

Both models are favorites of tuners, but the approaches to their modification are radically different. Skyline GT-R with engine RB26DETT is famous for its “indestructibility”: when assembled correctly, this motor can withstand up to 800–1000 hp on the stock block. While VR38DETT from GT-R R35 is considered more “fragile” - its limit without major modifications to the blocks is about 700 hp.

Popular tuning areas:

• 🔧 For Skyline GT-R:
  • Replacing turbines with Garrett GT28 or HKS GT-SS (+200–300 hp)
  • Intercooler installation GReddy or HKS Hi-Power
  • Flashing the ECU to Haltech Elite or Link G4+
  • Strengthening the gearbox (weak point - 5th gear synchronizers)
• 💻 For GT-R R35:
  • Firmware for E85 (adds 100–150 hp on stock turbos)
  • Replacing turbines with Tomei M82 or Greddy TD06
  • Exhaust installation Akrapovic or Fujitsubo (removes flow restrictions)
  • Modernization of the cooling system (weak point - oil cooler)

One of the most expensive but effective upgrades for GT-R R35 is a replacement for the stock box GR6 on PPG or Dodson with reinforced shafts and clutch. The cost of such tuning starts from 1.5 million rubles, but allows you to transmit up to 1000 hp. on wheels.

Buying used: what to look for when choosing Skyline or GT-R?

Used market Nissan Skyline And GT-R Russia is full of both successful offers and “pig in a poke.” Here are the key points to pay attention to:

Checking VIN via CarVertical or JDM Export>

Inspection on the lift (rust on the side members Skyline)

Diagnostics of compression in cylinders (norm for RB26 — 12–14 bar)

Checking work ATTESA (test on a slippery surface)

Oil analysis for metal shavings content (a sign of turbine wear) -->

Pay special attention legal status car. Many Skyline GT-R are imported into Russia under "gray" schemes (for example, as "Infiniti Q50"to bypass customs restrictions). This is fraught with problems during registration. GT-R R35 officially sold in Russia since 2010, so their paperwork is usually easier.

Market prices (as of June 2026):

• 💰 Skyline GT-R R32 - from 1.8 to 4 million rubles (depending on condition and tuning)
• 💰 Skyline GT-R R34 - from 3 to 8 million rubles (price increases due to cult status)
• 💰 GT-R R35 (2009–2014 onwards) - from 4 to 7 million rubles
• 💰 GT-R R35 Nismo (2017–2020 onwards) - from 10 to 15 million rubles

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase GT-R R35 check system service history Launch Control. Incorrect use of this function (more than 5 starts in a row) leads to overheating of the box and its failure. Repairs cost 500–700 thousand rubles.

Operation in Russia: problems and solutions

The climatic conditions of Russia pose challenges for owners Skyline And GT-R unique challenges. Main problems:

1. Corrosion - y Skyline R32/R34 The sills, arches and side members rust. Solution: Processing ML-mastic or installation of galvanized repair panels.
2. Fuel - engines RB26 And VR38 demanding on octane number. In Russia it is recommended to fill AI-98 or E85 (with appropriate firmware).
3. Suspension — stock shock absorbers Bilstein in GT-R R35 not designed for Russian roads. Optimal replacement - Tein Super Street or KW V3.
4. Electronics - in Skyline R34 often fails ECU due to power surges. Solution: installing a stabilizer 12V→14V.

The question deserves special attention winter operation. Despite all-wheel drive, GT-R R35 on winter tires it loses up to 30% of its dynamics due to weight (1.7 tons) and wide wheels. The owners recommend installing studded tires 255/40 R20 and turn off the system VDC in deep snow (via menu Settings → Vehicle → VDC OFF).

How to disable the speed limiter in GT-R R35?

B GT-R R35 Top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h. To remove the restriction you need to:

1. ECU firmware (for example, Cobb Accessport).

2. Replacing the speed sensor with a modified one.

3. Disabling the function Speed Warning in the service menu (available only through a dealer scanner Consult III+).

⚠️ Attention: removing the limiter will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and may lead to problems with the traffic police.

GT-R vs Skyline: which to choose in 2026?

Choice between Skyline GT-R And GT-R R35 depends on your goals:

• 🏁 For racing/drifting — Skyline R32/R34 thanks to the lightness, rear-engine layout (at R34) and the cheapness of spare parts.
• 🚀 For street racing — GT-R R35 due to modern electronics, Launch Control and more power out of the box.
• 💎 For collection — Skyline R34 (especially in the back V-Spec II Nür), since its price grows by 15–20% per year.
• 🔧 For tuning — Skyline R32 with engine RB26, which is cheaper and easier to modify.

If we talk about price/quality ratio, then the most profitable option today is GT-R R35 2010–2014 release. These cars have already passed the period of the most expensive “childhood illnesses” (for example, problems with the gearbox GR6 until 2012), but have not yet become a rarity.

💡

A Skyline GT-R R34 with a mileage of up to 50 thousand km in original condition is no longer a car, but an investment asset. Prices for such items will increase by at least 30–40% in the next 3–5 years.

The future of the models: what awaits the GT-R and Skyline?

In 2026 Nissan officially stopped production GT-R R35 after 17 years of graduation. Its successor will be an electric supercar Nissan GT-R EV, which is expected to debut in 2026–2027. According to preliminary data, he will receive:

• 🔋 Four electric motors (one per wheel) with total power 1400 hp
• 🚗 Braking system e-4ORCE (analogue ATTESA for EV)
• ⚡ Acceleration 0–100 km/h in 1.9 seconds (faster Tesla Model S Plaid)

Regarding Skyline, then production continues in Japan Nissan Skyline (V37) with engine VR30DDTT (3.0L V6 twin-turbo), but this is no longer a sports car, but a luxury sedan. Real enthusiasts are waiting for the return of the legendary GT-R lined up Skyline, but official statements from Nissan not yet.

Meanwhile, demand for Skyline GT-R R32/R34 like classic JDM cars. Experts predict that in 5–10 years prices for original copies will exceed 20–30 million rubles, especially for rare versions like R34 V-Spec II Nür (only 1000 pieces produced).

FAQ: answers to popular questions

❓ Is it possible to legally import the Skyline GT-R R34 into Russia in 2026?

Yes, but with reservations. Officially Skyline GT-R R34 is not certified for Russia, so it can only be imported:

1. Via customs clearance as a “foreign car over 7 years old” (duty ~50% of the cost).
2. Under the guise of another model (for example, Infiniti Q50), but this is a semi-legal scheme with risks when registering.
3. As a “temporary import” for 1 year (for participation in exhibitions or races).

The most reliable way is to purchase a copy that has already cleared customs from official JDM car dealers (for example, JDM Garage or Right Drive).

❓ What is the service life of the VR38DETT engine in the GT-R R35?

With proper maintenance, the engine VR38DETT able to pass 150–200 thousand km without major repairs. Key points for durability:

• Oil change every 5–7 thousand km (recommended oil: Motul 300V 5W-40).
• Check valve clearances every 80 thousand km (if worn, adjust or replace the “plates”).
• Temperature control: normal range - 85–95°C. Overheating higher 105°C leads to deformation of the block heads.

Weaknesses VR38:

• Oil pump (wears out after 100 thousand km).
• Turbines IHI (resource ~120 thousand km).
• Timing chain (stretches after 150 thousand km).

❓ What is the difference between the V-Spec, V-Spec II and Nür versions of the Skyline R34?

These are special versions Skyline GT-R R34, released for racing and collectors:

Version	Features	Years of manufacture	Circulation
V-Spec	Improved aerodynamics, rigid suspension, differential Active LSD.	1999–2000	~1500 pcs.
V-Spec II	Additional cooling of turbines, reinforced brakes Brembo.	2000–2001	~1200 pcs.
V-Spec II Nür	Lightweight version for the Nürburgring: titanium exhaust system, reinforced body.	2002	1000 pcs.

It is considered the most valuable V-Spec II Nür — its price at auctions reaches $200–300 thousand

❓ Is it possible to put an RB26 engine in a GT-R R35?

Technically possible, but extremely expensive. Problems you will encounter:

• 🔧 Incompatible engine mounts (custom subframes required).
• 💻 Lack of “native” firmware for the ECU GT-R R35 under RB26.
• 🔌 System conflict ATTESA And VDC, which are designed for VR38.

The cost of such a swap starts from 2 million rubles (including modifications to the body, transmission and electronics). Much easier and cheaper to buy Skyline R32 and tune it.

❓ Which tires are best to choose for the GT-R R35 for the summer?

For GT-R R35 It is critical to choose rubber that will support its weight and power. Optimal options:

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4S — better balance of grip and wear resistance (lifetime ~20 thousand km).
• Toyo R888R — semi-slick for the track (but wears out quickly on the street).
• Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS - the gold standard for street racing.

Dimensions:

• Front wheels: 255/40 R20
• Rear wheels: 285/35 R20

⚠️ Important: tire pressure must be 2.2–2.4 bar (front) and 2.0–2.2 bar (rear) to prevent uneven wear.