1999 Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Series I

Background:

While many from the PlayStation generation may have first encountered the excitement of the R34 GT-R V-Spec through Gran Turismo, it was its role in The Fast and the Furious movie franchise that truly catapulted the R34 GT-R to global fame.

Yet, it was in the real world that the R34 GT-R truly solidified its reputation. Evo magazine described it as "a warrior-class performer" in a 2007 road test which pitched a standard R34 GT-R against automotive legends like the McLaren F1, Pagani Zonda, Ferrari F40 and Bugatti Veyron. Although it cannot claim the original "Godzilla" nickname - that honour belongs to the R32 GT-R - the R34 GT-R has arguably become the most iconic Japanese car of the late-1990s golden era.

Released in 1999, the R34 was a sleeker, more agile design than the outgoing R33, boasting impressive performance and packed with advanced technology, including a 5.8" LCD multifunction display on the dashboard showing live engine and vehicle statistics like boost pressure, oil/water temperature and throttle percentage.

The R34 featured aggressive new styling, a stiffer bodyshell, and an upgraded RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six engine paired with a new Getrag 6-speed gearbox and transfer case. It retained the electronically-controlled Super HICAS rear-wheel steering system and boasted Brembo brakes with 300mm vented discs, ensuring excellent stopping power.

The car:

The R34 GT-R being offered here - chassis number BNR34-001132 - was originally supplied to the Japanese market in 1999 and still sports its original QM1 White exterior hue. From new it was equipped with optional extras like privacy glass, SatNav and six speakers.

While its early life in Japan remains largely undocumented, it is evident that the car was well maintained and cared for, remaining largely in OEM condition both inside and out - for instance, it is still sporting is factory radio, tape deck and CD player. This example has received a few sensible but discreet upgrades including Tein suspension struts, front brakes uprated to ‘D2’ 8-pot calipers and an HKS exhaust system.

Given the recent surge in R34 GT-R prices, which have effortlessly soared into six figures, this cherished example represents a rare opportunity to acquire such a desirable car at a reasonable cost. With the 25-year import rule now legalising these cars in the US, values are likely to increase even further.

Seller Type: Private

Location: Cheshire

Photographer: Professional