Legendary Nissan Skyline is not just a car, but a symbol of Japanese engineering, which in 60 years has gone from a modest sedan to a supercar with technology GT-R. Every generation Skyline had unique bodies that determined its character: from classic “round” shapes R30 to aggressive lines V37 with the system ATTESA E-TS and turbo engines RB26DETT. This article is not just a list of models, but detailed analysis of each body with an emphasis on technical nuances that are important when purchasing, restoring or tuning.

We will look at not only external changes, but also the evolution of platforms, transmissions and engines - from inline sixes L20 to modern VR38DETT. We will pay special attention to rare modifications (for example, Skyline Sport Coupe based on R31 or Infiniti Q50 on the platform V37), as well as typical problems of each generation. If you are planning to buy Skyline — here you will find a checklist for inspection and tips on how to avoid counterfeits.

1. Skyline R30 (1981–1985): the beginning of a legend

First generation Skyline with index R30 debuted in 1981 and was revolutionary for Nissan — it was with him that the era of rear-wheel drive coupes and sedans with series engines began L. The body was offered in three versions:

  • 🚗 Sedan 4-door - the most common, often used as a taxi in Japan.
  • 🚘 Coupe 2-door (Hardtop) - a rare version with an extended wheelbase, prized by collectors.
  • 🚙 Station wagon (Wagon) - practical modification, extremely rare.

Technically R30 equipped with naturally aspirated engines L18 (1.8 l, 95 hp) and L20 (2.0 l, 115–130 hp), as well as diesel LD20. Transmission: 4- or 5-speed manual transmission, optional 3-speed automatic. Main Feature: rear wheel drive and independent suspension on all wheels, which was a progressive solution for the early 1980s.

Today R30 - rarity. Main problems when purchasing:

  • 🔧 Corrosion — the sills, arches and bottom rust. Vehicles operated in snowy regions are especially vulnerable.
  • 🔥 Engine overheating - weak point of the cooling system, especially in engines L20E.
  • 🛠️ Fakes — “assembled” specimens from several donors are often found.
⚠️ Attention: Upon examination R30 Be sure to check the body number on the plate (under the hood) and compare it with the VIN in the documents. The numbers on the frame and body must match - this is protection against “broken” cars.
📊 Which Skyline R30 body do you like best?
  • Sedan
  • Coupe Hardtop
  • Station wagon
  • I like other generations

2. Skyline R31 (1985–1989): turbo and electronic innovations

Second generation R31 has become transitional: Nissan began experiments with turbo engines and electronic systems. The bodies remained the same (sedan, coupe, station wagon), but the design became more angular, and a digital instrument panel and climate control appeared in the cabin. Main technical innovations:

  • 🔥 Engines RB20DET — the first turbocharged engine in the line (2.0 l, 180–210 hp), which will later form the basis of the legendary RB26DETT.
  • 🔄 System HICAS — rear steering suspension (optional for versions with a turbo engine).
  • 📉 Electronic injection ECCS — replaced carburetors on all modifications.

Stands apart Skyline GTS-R (1987) - limited edition (800 copies) with motor RB20DET-R (210 hp) and reinforced transmission. This model became the prototype for racing versions Group A and today it is valued above standard R31.

Typical problems R31:

KnotProblemSolution
TurbineBearing wear, oil leakageReplacement with Garrett T25 or upgrade
HICASHydraulic system leaks, pump malfunctionDisabling the system or replacing the repair kit
ElectronicsSensor failures (AFM, CAS)Check contacts, replace with original
⚠️ Attention: On R31 with motor RB20DET Larger “left” turbines were often installed, which led to detonation and destruction of the block. Before purchasing, check the service records logbook!

3. Skyline R32 (1989–1994): the birth of the GT-R and the ATTESA revolution

Third generation R32 became a cult thanks to its debut Nissan Skyline GT-R - a supercar that dominated racing series JTCC And Group A. Body R32 were offered in three options:

  • 🚗 Sedan 4-door — basic version with motors RB20DE/RB25DE.
  • 🚘 Coupe 2-door - basis for GT-R, with unique aerodynamics.
  • 🚙 Station wagon (Wagon) - a rare modification, often with all-wheel drive.

Technical Innovation R32:

  • 🏁 All-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS — electronic control of torque distribution (up to 50% on the front axle).
  • 🔧 Engine RB26DETT — 2.6 l, 280 hp (according to Japanese standards), twin turbines Garrett T25.
  • 🛡️ Brakes Brembo — 4-piston front calipers, ventilated discs.

GT-R versions R32 had unique features:

Check VIN (must start with BNR32)

The presence of a plate with the body number on the front pillar

Original turbines Garrett T25 with markings N1

Red seat belts (only for GT-R)

System ATTESA with shutdown button on the center console-->

Weaknesses R32 GT-R:

  • 💣 Motor overheating — standard radiators cannot cope with the load, an upgrade is required.
  • 🔩 Wheel bearing wear - especially on cars with an aggressive driving style.
  • 💰 Fakes - up to 30% of "GT-R" on the market - converted GTS-t or GTS-4.
How to check the authenticity of RB26DETT?

The original engine block has cast marks 26 on the front and a unique number that must match the body number. Turbines on the present GT-R are marked Nissan 24U or Garrett T25 with red impellers. Also check for the presence of an original intercooler (cheap Chinese analogues are often installed on replicas).

4. Skyline R33 (1993–1998): GT-R evolution and power growth

Fourth generation R33 received a more streamlined body and improved aerodynamics (Cx coefficient = 0.32). The line of bodies remained the same, but GT-R became 30 mm wider to accommodate wheels 255/40 R17. Main changes:

  • 🔥 Engine RB26DETT — power increased to 300 hp. (according to unofficial data, real figures are 320+ hp).
  • 🔄 System ATTESA E-TS Pro — improved torque distribution (up to 100% to the rear axle).
  • 🛡️ Brakes Brembo with 4-piston calipers front and rear discs of increased diameter.

A limited edition appeared in 1995 GT-R LM (188 copies) with a lightweight body and an engine boosted to 400 hp. to participate in Le Mans. Today these cars cost more than $200,000.

Typical problems R33 GT-R:

KnotProblemSolution
TurbinesWear of seals, oil leakageReplacement with Garrett GT28 or HKS GT-SS
GearboxWear of synchronizers 1–2 gearsInstallation of the reinforced kit Nismo
SuspensionShock absorber leaks, wear of silent blocksReplacement with Tein or Ohlin
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Upon purchase R33 GT-R Pay attention to the condition of the intercooler - cracks or corrosion of the tubes lead to loss of boost and overheating of the engine. Original intercoolers Nissan сегодня стоят более $1 500, но их замена на алюминиевые аналоги (например, GReddy) improves reliability.

5. Skyline R34 (1998–2002): peak of fame and cult status

Fifth generation R34 стало последним «классическим» Skyline with motor RB26DETT и заднеприводной платформой. The bodies were offered in three versions:

  • 🚗 Sedan — basic version with motors RB20DE/RB25DE.
  • 🚘 Coupe - basis for GT-R, с уникальными бамперами и спойлером.
  • 🚙 Station wagon - rare modification Stagea (based on R34, but with a different index).

GT-R R34 получил ряд усовершенствований:

  • 🔥 Engine RB26DETT — boosted to 330 hp (по японским стандартам), улучшены турбины (Garrett GT25).
  • 🎯 System ATTESA E-TS Pro — теперь с датчиками угла поворота руля и индивидуальным торможением колёс.
  • 📊 Multi Information Display (MID) — отображает давление наддува, температуру масла и другие параметры.

The version stands apart GT-R V-Spec II Nür (2002) - limited edition (1,000 copies) with a lightweight body and an engine prepared for Nürburgring. Эти машины сегодня продаются на аукционах за $300 000+.

⚠️ Attention: There are many fake ones on the market V-Spec II Nür. Оригинал имеет уникальный номер на табличке под капотом (начинается с BNCR34-00****) and special nameplates on the body. Также проверьте наличие оригинального руля Nismo with a red center - it is often counterfeited.
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The Skyline R34 GT-R is the only generation to be officially imported into Australia and New Zealand under the name Nissan GT-R. Эти машины имеют уникальные VIN (начинаются с ECR34) and have more stringent environmental standards.

6. Skyline V35 (2001–2006): transition to front-wheel drive and VQ35DE

Sixth generation V35 was a radical departure from tradition: Nissan translated Skyline on a front-wheel drive platform FM (jointly with Infiniti G35) and abandoned the engines RB in favor VQ35DE (3.5 l, 280–300 hp). The bodies were offered in only two versions:

  • 🚗 Sedan 4-door — с классическим или спортивным обвесом.
  • 🚘 Coupe 2-door - version Skyline Coupe, identical Infiniti G35 Coupe.

Main features V35:

  • 🔄 Four-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS - option for versions 350GT-8 (with 6-speed manual transmission).
  • 🎛️ Adaptive suspension - system Skyhook with electronic control of shock absorber stiffness.
  • 🛡️ Brakes Brembo — 4-piston calipers at the front (on versions GT).

Typical problems V35:

  • 🔧 Timing chain — stretches to 150,000 km, requires replacement (work costs from $1,000).
  • 💧 Oil leaks — through the valve cover gasket and the rear crankshaft oil seal.
  • 📴 Electronics — failures of oxygen sensors and ignition module.

7. Skyline V36 (2006–2014) and V37 (2014–2019): Infiniti era and hybrids

Latest generations Skyline — V36 And V37 — actually became rebranded Infiniti (sold in Japan as Skyline, for export - how Infiniti G37/Q50). The bodies were offered in three versions:

  • 🚗 Sedan - with motors VQ37VHR (3.7 l, 330 hp) or a hybrid system (in V37).
  • 🚘 Coupe - version Skyline Coupe (V36) or Infiniti Q60 (V37).
  • 🔋 Hybrid — Skyline Hybrid (V37) with the system Direct Response Hybrid (3.5 l + electric motor, 360 hp).

Main innovations:

  • 🔋 Hybrid system - first Skyline with electric drive (acceleration 0–100 km/h in 5.5 s).
  • 🎛️ Adaptive steering wheel Direct Adaptive Steering — electronic force control (in V37).
  • 🛡️ Collision avoidance system — radar cruise control and automatic braking.

Typical problems V36/V37:

KnotProblemSolution
CVTOverheating, jerking during accelerationOil change every 60,000 km
Hybrid batteryCapacity degradation after 10 yearsReplacement of modules or entire battery ($3,000+)
Turbine (VQ37VHR)Blade wear after 200,000 kmReplacement with reinforced ones Stillen

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Skyline bodies

🔍 How to distinguish an original GT-R R32 from a replica?

Original GT-R R32 has:

  • VIN starting with BNR32 (for GT-R) or BCNR33 (for R33).
  • A plate with the body number on the A-pillar (under the hood).
  • Original turbines Garrett T25 with markings N1.
  • Red seat belts and unique seat fabric pattern.

Replicas are often collected at the base GTS-t or GTS-4, whose VIN begins with ER32 or ENR32.

💰 How much does it cost to restore an RB26DETT?

Major renovation RB26DETT costs:

  • 🔧 Standard repair (replacement of rings, seals, turbines) - $5,000–$8,000.
  • 🔥 Forcing (reinforced connecting rods, pistons, turbines HKS GT3037) — $12 000–$20 000.
  • 📊 Tuning for 500+ hp (block N1, fuel system, ECU Haltech) — $25 000+.

The cost depends on the condition of the block and the purpose (stock, drift, drag).

🚗Which Skyline is better for drifting?

Optimal for drifting:

  • 🏁 R32 GTS-t - light body, reliable RB20DET, cheap spare parts.
  • 🔥 R33 GTS25-t - motor RB25DET (250 hp), good balancing.
  • 💣 R34 GT-T — RB25DET Neo (280 hp), but more expensive to repair.

Avoid V35/V36 — front-wheel drive and CVT are not suitable for drifting.