Nissan Skyline R32: An Ultimate Buyer's Guide

Avishka Chandeepa

Posted 13 June 2024

r32-nissan-skyline-for-sale-history-guide

Introduction

Since its 1989 launch, the Nissan Skyline R32 has enthralled lovers of the automotive world. The R32, the eighth addition to the Skyline series, was a revolutionary vehicle that, at the time, redefined performance and technological norms. The Nissan Skyline R32, renowned for its potent engines, cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system, and inventive design, is still cherished in the automobile industry for its racing history and cult following. This article dives into the qualities that make the R32 a timeless classic and a representation of Nissan's superior engineering.

 

History of the R32 

Nissan brought back the GT-R designation in 1989 following the discontinuation of the Skyline GT-R in 1973. Nissan was using the Skyline GTS-R to compete in Motorsport at the time. Nissan intended to replace the GTS-R with a more competitive car. 

In addition to its racing achievements, the R32 Skyline has had a profound impact on global auto culture. It inspired a new generation of auto fans and came to represent the automotive supremacy of Japan. Its legendary position was further cemented by its use in video games, motion pictures, and sequences involving vehicle tuning.

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A Project Skyline R32 Exported for a UK customer by ZervTek

The R32's legacy was carried on by its successors, the Nissan Skyline R33 and Skyline R34, which all built upon the R32's foundations. Still, the R32 is a favorite among enthusiasts and a representation of Nissan's dedication to raising the bar for automotive performance and technology.

The R32 has grown in value as a collector's item in the years after it was produced. It is a timeless classic due to its unique design, racing heritage, and cutting-edge technology. The R32 is still loved by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, guaranteeing that its legacy will go on.

 

Vehicle Specifications

The R32 was equipped with several RB-series straight-6 engines, which were upgraded with ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) injection and a twelve port intake. A 1,800 cc four-cylinder GXi variant was also offered. The majority of the cars had hydraulics connected back wheels to the front steering or HICAS four-wheel steering. 

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A Project Skyline R32 Exported for a UK customer by ZervTek

Featuring a 5-speed automatic transmission, the 2.5-liter GTS-25 was among the first Japanese production vehicles with this capability. The GTS-T was available in both normal and Type M versions. The Type M was distinguished by its bigger 16-inch wheels with five studs, frontal brakes with four pistons, and rear calipers with twin pistons, among other little changes. Except for the GT-R and GTS-4, ABS was optional. The GT-R came standard with mechanical LSD, while all turbo variants came standard with viscous LSD, which was available on all other models bar the GXi. Additionally, Nissan made 100 R32 vehicles for Australia. Furthermore, the GTS-4 was a 4WD variant of the GTS-T Type M.

 

The R33's outstanding performance on the road and the racetrack was attributed to its better weight distribution, updated aerodynamics, and increased stability. 

Specification

Details

ModelNissan Skyline R32 GT-R
Production Years1989 - 1994
Body Style2-door coupe
EngineRB26DETT (2.6L inline-6 twin-turbo)
Displacement2,568 cc
Max Power280 PS (206 kW) @ 6,800 rpm
Max Torque353 Nm (36 kgm) @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission5-speed manual
Drive TypeAWD (ATTESA E-TS system)
Suspension (Front/Rear)Multilink / Multilink
Brakes (Front/Rear)Ventilated disc / Ventilated disc
Dimensions (L/W/H)4,545 mm / 1,755 mm / 1,340 mm
Wheelbase2,615 mm
Track (Front/Rear)1,480 mm / 1,480 mm
Curb Weight1,430 kg
Tires225/50R16
Fuel Tank Capacity72 liters
Performance0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, Top speed 156 mph (252 km/h)

 

Model Range

When the Nissan Skyline R32 made its debut in 1989, it soon established itself as a performance powerhouse, earning the nickname "Godzilla" from fans. This model line had several variations, each intended to meet the requirements and tastes of various drivers.

 

1. Skyline R32 GT-R

Because of its domination of racing circuits, the GT-R is the most recognizable model in the R32 series. The GT-R was outfitted with a potent 2.6-liter inline-6 twin-turbo engine, the RB26DETT, which generated 353 Nm of torque and 280 PS. It was equipped with the cutting-edge Super-HICAS four-wheel steering system and ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which raised the bar for performance and handling.

2. Skyline R32 GTS-T Type M

The GTS-t Type M was created as a performance model that was easier to use. The 2.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged RB20DET engine, which produces about 212 PS, was included with the vehicle. Rear-wheel drive was a characteristic of this vehicle, which provided a good balance between everyday practicality and performance.

Nissan Skyline R33 Imported to the US by ZervTek
NIssan Skyline R32 Exported to the US by ZervTek

3. Skyline R32 GTS-4

A unique version that combined the ATTESA all-wheel-drive technology and the RB20DET engine was the GTS-4. It offered a special combination of traction and power, giving it a flexible choice for many driving situations.

 

4. Skyline R32 GTS

A 2.0-liter RB20DE naturally aspirated engine with about 155 PS was offered for this model. For individuals who didn't require amazing performance but still wanted the style and handling of the Skyline, this more economical and fuel-efficient version proved appealing.

 

5. Skyline R32 GXi

The GXi was the entry-level model in the R32 range, featuring a 1.8-liter CA18i inline-4 engine. It was the most economical and least powerful variant, aimed at buyers who prioritized affordability and fuel efficiency over performance.

 

Buying with ZervTek

Knowing the specifics of the auction process is essential when buying a Japanese import, like the storied Nissan Skyline R32. It is crucial to have options catered to your budget depending on variables like year, mileage, and condition, whether you're seeking to buy a Skyline R32 or any other kind of car. 

Nissan Skyline GT-R for sale in USS Auctions
A Skyline GT-R in USS Auctions that we ended up winning for a US customer.

Purchasing and importing a JDM from Japan, such as the Nissan Skyline R32, requires an understanding of the Japanese Auto Auction procedures and finding a trusted exporter such as ZervTek who will take care of everything from sourcing to shipping. It's also important to have selections custom to your budget based on factors like year, mileage, and condition. 

To learn more about purchasing a Nissan Skyline R32 or other vehicles from Japanese auctions, you can check our guides.

 

Conclusion

Its success in racing cemented its legendary legacy in motorsports. Decades after its release, the R32 is still highly valued by fans and collectors as a representation of the ideal fusion of technology, performance, and design that still influences the car industry. ZervTek is here to help you with finding and importing your dream Skyline R32 or Skyline R33 without breaking the bank!

If you require assistance or have any inquiries, feel free to reach out to our dedicated sales team. We're here to help!

You can find all the necessary links below.

Thank you for choosing ZervTek Co., Ltd. We appreciate your trust in our services and look forward to serving you with excellence and integrity.

One more R32 GT-R we shipped to the UK:

 

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