Nissan Skyline R34 Specs: Finally Legal to Import to the United States

The tenth generation of the influential Nissan Skyline Series, known as the Nissan Skyline R34, is the undisputed king of the Skyline lineage. Produced from 1999 to 2002, the Nissan Skyline R34 took everything that made its predecessors tremendous and propelled it to new heights. With a combination of advanced features like all-wheel drive (ATTESA E-TS), four-wheel steering (Super-HICAS), and a legendary inline-six engine (RB), the Skyline R34 GT-R in particular cemented its place as a performance car icon.

1. Unforgettable Driving Experience: A Masterpiece of Handling

One aspect that universally captivates Nissan Skyline R34 drivers is the addictive driving experience it provides. Nissan meticulously crafted the car to be the ultimate driving machine, especially compared to its JDM rivals of the era. From the car's responsive handling down to the potent engine, the Nissan Skyline R34 seamlessly comes together, delivering an exhilarating experience on any road.

Despite its weight, which was considered substantial for a sports car at the time, the Nissan Skyline R34 feels remarkably light and agile on the road.  For a 1990s car, its responsiveness is truly remarkable. When pushed on Japan's famed winding mountain roads, the Nissan Skyline R34 grips the tarmac with exceptional precision, providing a confidence-inspiring balance around every corner. Even when compared to some of the greatest supercars of the 1990s, the Nissan Skyline R34 offered an equally thrilling driving experience.

2. Nissan's RB Engine: Revolutionary Powerhouses

Specifications of the Skyline R34 

The Nissan Skyline GTR R34’s RB26DETT 2.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine delivers perfect power. Even by today's standards, the Nissan Skyline R34 feels incredibly fast. The engine's responsiveness perfectly complements the car's handling, giving the driver unwavering confidence that the 276 horsepower (limited by Japanese regulations) is readily available when needed.  At its release, the R34 was widely considered the pinnacle of 1990s JDM performance, offering an unparalleled driving experience that no other car in its class could match.
 

R34 Model Variations: Catering to Diverse Needs

The Nissan Skyline R34 wasn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. Nissan offered a range of models, as both sedans and coupes, catering to different driving preferences and budgets:

• Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec: The top-of-the-line model boasts a more aggressive suspension setup, Brembo brakes, and a driver-focused cockpit.
   
• Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II: Introduced in 2000, this model featured further performance enhancements, such as a revised turbocharger system and a carbon fiber rear wing.
   
• Nissan Skyline GT-R M-Spec: A more comfort-oriented version with a softer suspension and luxurious interior amenities.
   
• Nissan Skyline GT-R GT-M: A limited-production model built for the Japanese domestic market, featuring a revised engine management system for slightly more power.
   
• Nissan Skyline 25GT-X (ENR34): A rear-wheel-drive variant with a de-tuned naturally aspirated version of the RB25DET engine, targeting a more budget-friendly R34 buyer.
   
• Nissan Skyline GT-T (ER34): Another variant of the Nissan Skyline R34 that will be legalized in the US this year, the GT-T also features the more gas-efficient RB25 engine and is yet another budget-friendly for those who want a less expensive alternative to the R34 GT-R. The vehicle comes in either a sedan format or a coupe, as well as in both automatic and manual transmissions.
   
• Nissan Skyline GT-V (ER34): The 1998 Nissan Skyline 25GT-V ER34 offered a more affordable alternative to its fire-breathing GT-R sibling. Available in both sedan and coupe body styles, the 25GT-V caters to enthusiasts seeking a stylish and capable sports car. While lacking the all-wheel drive and powerhouse RB26DETT engine of the GT-R, the 25GT-V packs a punch with its turbocharged 2.5-liter RB25DET engine, offering a thrilling driving experience. Buyers could choose between a smooth-shifting automatic transmission for comfortable cruising or a precise manual transmission for a more connected and engaging drive. This variety ensured the 25GT-V appealed to a broader range of drivers, from those seeking a daily driver with a sporty edge to enthusiasts who craved a dynamic manual transmission for spirited weekend drives.

3. Importing a Skyline to the United States

Due to stricter regulations, particularly regarding emissions, the Nissan Skyline R34 was never officially imported into the United States.  While there are a handful of ways to import a Nissan Skyline R34 for show purposes, these cars are not street-legal. The sheer speed of this all-wheel-drive sports car was deemed too dangerous for American roads, and it simply couldn't meet U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

However, thanks to the "25-year rule," you can finally find a Nissan Skyline R34 for sale starting in 2024. You can purchase from Japanese Car Auctions via ZervTek and have it imported to the US with minimum hassle. Once you get in touch with ZervTek, an agent will guide you through the auction process, providing you with translated auction sheets and pictures needed for you to pick vehicles to bid for. In the event of a successful bid, the purchased vehicle will be shipped from Japan to the United States and released to you. For an extensive guide on importing JDMs to the US, click here. The Skyline R34 can also be imported to the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia!

It's important to note that some variants, such as the highly sought-after V-Spec, will have to wait a bit longer as they haven't yet reached their 25th birthday. This long-awaited allowance is sure to excite fans across the country, with both stock models and heavily modified beasts taking to American roads in the coming years.
 

How much does a Nissan Skyline R34 cost in 2024? 

A Sedan Skyline R34 GT-T (ER34) Automatic can be bought for between $8,000 - $12,000 with decent mileage, while a Manual can go between $10,000 - $19,000 depending on the mileage and condition. A Coupe Skyline R34 GT-T Automatic costs between $14,000 - $18,000, and a Manual will go for sale between $14,000 - $25,000, even stretching up to $35,000 for really low mileage, mint condition R34 GT-Ts in the Japanese Car Auctions.

A Sedan Skyline R34 GT (HR34) Automatic Sedan can be found sold out for between $2,500 - $5,000 while a manual sedan goes for around $5,000 - $9,000. 

The Skyline R34 GT-X and GT Four (ENR34) are rarer than the HR34 and generally vary between $4,000 - $15,000 depending on the condition, mileage, transmission, and whether it's a coupe or a sedan. 

The R34 GT-R (BNR34) starts at around $75,000. There are no hard distinctions in price when it comes to the Skyline GT-R, Skyline GT-R Spec M, or the Skyline GT-R V-Spec as the end prices depend more on the mileage and overall condition of the vehicle (Generally under $112,000). The GTR V-Spec II is around $110,000 - $120,000, with the V-Spec Midnight Purple selling out for a little bit above that. The most expensive GT-R is the V Spec II Nur auctioning at around $125,000 - $185,000. In fact, there's a GT-R V Spec II Nur with 4,000 verified KMs that got sold out for $400,000 last month.

The estimates above are written with actual cars that were sold out in the Japanese Car Auctions. If you are looking to import an R34, Export Fees (FOB) and Shipping will be additional to the pricing listed below. Talk to an agent and request more thorough data to compare and contrast to find the perfect budget for the perfect R34 you're looking for.

4. Technological Advancements: A Glimpse into the Future

The Nissan Skyline R34 wasn't just about power; it also boasted a plethora of advanced technologies that were ahead of their time.  A new feature for the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R was a 5.8-inch LCD multifunction display on the centre dashboard. This display showcased seven different live engine and vehicle statistics readings, including turbocharger pressure, oil and water temperature, and more. The GT-R V·Spec model added two extra features to the display: intake and exhaust gas temperatures. Performance enthusiasts could also purchase optional Nismo Multi-function Displays (MFDs), which offered features like a lap timer, G-force meter, and an increased boost pressure measurement gauge.

In response to customer feedback regarding the R33's size, the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R was shorter to provide a more agile driving experience.

5. A Cultural Icon: From Racing Pedigree to Pop Culture Stardom

The Nissan Skyline R34's dominance on the racetrack, particularly in Japan's prestigious touring car championships, cemented its reputation as a true performance machine. Its success trickled down to the streets, making it a coveted car for enthusiasts and tuners alike.  The aftermarket for the R34 exploded, with countless parts and modifications available to unlock even more power and handling prowess.

Beyond the world of racing and tuning, the Nissan Skyline R34 transcended into popular culture. Its aggressive design and impressive performance made it a favorite among video game developers, appearing in countless racing titles like Gran Turismo and Need for Speed.  The Nissan Skyline R34 also became a fixture in movies like "The Fast and the Furious" franchise, where cop-turned-criminal Brian O’Connors smooth maneuvering of the vehicle immortalized the Japanese machine. This widespread media presence introduced the Nissan Skyline R34 to a new generation of car enthusiasts, solidifying its legendary status.

6. A Legacy that Endures: Inspiring Generations

The Nissan Skyline R34's legacy extends far beyond its production years. It continues to inspire generations of car enthusiasts with its combination of raw power, innovative technology, and timeless design. The "Godzilla" moniker, a nickname bestowed upon the GT-R model for its dominance, perfectly encapsulates the car's awe-inspiring power and cultural significance.

The Nissan Skyline R34's impact on the automotive world is undeniable. It pushed the boundaries of what a JDM car could be, paving the way for future high-performance models.  Even today, tuners and car builders continue to find inspiration in the Skyline R34, creating modified versions that push the limits of performance and redefine what a classic can be.

The wait for legal import into the U.S. only adds to the Nissan Skyline R34's mystique. With its arrival in 2024 and beyond, the legend of the R34 is poised to continue captivating car enthusiasts for years to come.