1995 Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R V-spec

• Rare and sought-after V-spec example, a higher performance version, featuring uprated suspension, and a 'Pro' version of the ATTESA 4WD that included an active LSD, which at the time made it arguably the most technologically advanced production car in the world; mighty RB26 twin-turbo 2.6-litre inline six-cylinder powerplant
• Imported by a specialist UK-based Japanese sportscar company 7 years ago and bought by our vendor, a discerning and enthusiastic car collector
• Full Japanese service history and book-pack, just 82,000km (50,000 miles), and in completely standard condition
• Exterior all repainted to the highest standard, decals professionally reapplied, adjustable suspension all renewed, and the bespoke leather interior was fully retrimmed
• Rust-free and over £10,000 spent since importation

Perhaps underrated but quietly influential compared to its forbears, the R33 incarnation of the GT-R is still a pure sports car experience, but now aided by some of the most revolutionary handling technology to influence modern performance driving.

The new R33 Skyline GT-R was launched in January 1995 with a base GT-R and the V-spec model. The V-spec model had a sportier suspension set-up resulting in lower ground clearance, and also featured the newer ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel drive system, which included an Active Limited-Slip Differential.

At the heart of the V-spec version was the ATTESA-ETS Pro Electronic Torque Split System, which at the time made it arguably the most technologically advanced production car in the world. The system was conceived in the 1990s for the JTCC to put some 600bhp through the wheels and to the racetrack efficiently. ETS Pro satisfied the purist by giving all the advantages of rear wheel drive until the conditions dictated otherwise.

Also, on the V-spec version, was an active LSD on the rear axle which further aided traction by calculating the optimum torque-split between the left and right rear wheels, variable from fully locked to totally free.

Working along with ATTESA-ETS PRO, is the SUPER HICAS rear-wheel steering wheel. This uses a series of sensors to monitor vehicle motion, rate of turn and the driver's action on the steering wheel. Complex software then compares this information to the computer predictions of the car's ideal turning characteristics, adjusting the angle of the rear wheels to reflect the driver's intentions. The result of this type of technology? Neutral steering and unrivalled cornering capabilities.

The engine in the R33 was nearly identical to the previous R32. It used the same turbochargers and the same specification for the manual gearbox, although the synchros were made to be stronger. The engine corrected the R32's weak oil pump drive collar, which tended to fail in higher power applications, with a wider collar.

With the realisation that the increased body rigidity increases handling potential, several specially designed cross members are integrated into the monocoque body design. In addition, extra torsion bars were added to the multi-link suspension to further enhance stability. Working closely with Bridgestone technicians to perfect the Potenza tyres, Nissan put the prototype R33 GT-R through its paces in all weathers at the notorious Nürburgring, earning them a daring reputation amongst other manufacturers.

Tested in the wind tunnel and capable of around 175 mph, the Skyline GT-R's adjustable rear spoiler lets you find the best compromise between wind resistance and grip. To equalise the weight distribution, the bonnet and front wings were made of aluminium instead of steel and the battery was removed from the engine bay and placed in the rear of the GT-R. This altered the car's centre of gravity and improved its corning characteristics.

Inside the Skyline GT-R, form followed function. Mono-form bucket seats with integrated headrests that are lightweight yet immensely tough provided the ideal driving position and supported the body against the G-forces endured under hard acceleration and cornering.

The braking system was made by Italy's famous Brembo Spa, suppliers to many of the world's Formula 1 teams at this time. Four-piston calipers were fitted on the front with two-piston calipers on the rear to bite into the discs with a diamond shaped ventilation bores which increased the surface area to aid heat dissipation. The GT-R's braking system utilises the same wheel rotation sensors used to control the ATTESA-ETS PRO, to activate the high-performance ABS, ensuring that the huge Brembo calipers always deliver optimum performance.

The car presented here is a 1995 Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R V-spec, imported by a specialist UK-based Japanese sportscar company some 7 years ago and bought by our vendor, who is a discerning and enthusiastic car collector.

Reassuringly, the car is accompanied by a full Japanese service history and book-pack, has covered just 82,000km (50,000 miles), and is in completely standard specification. Furthermore, there is no rust or bodywork damage, encouraging our vendor to invest in having the exterior fully repainted to the highest standard, with the decals professionally reapplied. He also ensured that the adjustable suspension was all renewed, and commissioned a bespoke leather interior, in all, costing over £10,000. The end result is a striking and fit-for-purpose R33. With prices on the march for the best quality and most original Japanese sports cars, this R33 has a lot going for it and is not to be missed.