Nissan Skyline: what kind of drive does the legendary Japanese have? Analysis of all generations

Nissan Skyline - a cult car, which over the 60 years of its existence has managed to change dozens of modifications, engines and, of course, drive types. For some, it is a symbol of drifting and rear-wheel drive dynamics, for others, it is a technologically advanced all-wheel drive sports car. But how can you figure out which drive a particular model has? In this article we will analyze in detail all generations Skyline (from R32 to V37), we will reveal the technical nuances of drive systems and help you avoid mistakes when purchasing.

The debate about which drive is better has raged for decades. The rear wheels give drive and predictable handling, the all-wheel drive gives you confidence on the snow and the track, and the front... well, the front wheels... Skyline It is rare, but also has a right to life. The main thing is to understand that the choice of drive directly affects the nature of the car, its price on the secondary market and even insurance. Therefore, if you are planning a purchase or just want to understand the topic, read on.

1. Evolution of the drive in the history of the Nissan Skyline: from R32 to V37

First Skyline (1957–1963) were modest sedans with rear wheel drive and engines up to 1.5 liters. But the real revolution occurred in 1968 with the debut of the model C10, which received the legendary engine L20 and option all-wheel drive (though only for racing versions). However, the mass distribution of all-wheel drive systems began later - with the generation R32 (1989–1994) when the system appeared ATTESA E-TS.

Since then everyone Skyline offered its own set of drive options:

• 🔄 R32 (1989–1994): rear-wheel drive (FR) or four-wheel drive (4WD) with ATTESA for GT-R.
• 🚗 R33 (1993–1998): FR for base versions, 4WD for GT-R and some 25GT-T.
• 💨 R34 (1998–2002): FR standard, 4WD only for GT-R and rare 25GT-X.
• 🔥 V35 (2001–2006): four-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS Pro for all versions, including sedans and coupes.
• 🏁 V36/V37 (2006–2019): platform-based all-wheel drive only FM.

An important nuance: after 2001 (V35 generation), Nissan completely abandoned rear-wheel drive Skylines in favor of all-wheel drive, even for basic trim levels. This was due to the transition to the platform FM (Front-Midship), where the engine is shifted closer to the center of the car, and the system ATTESA became an integral part of the design.

2. Rear-wheel drive (FR): for drifting and pure drive

Rear wheel drive Skyline - This is a classic of the genre, which is adored for its predictable behavior on the track and the possibility of controlled skidding. Models such as R32/R33/R34 25GT or 180SX (close relative Skyline), have become icons of drift culture thanks to:

• 🎯 Balance 50/50 (for R32–R34) - ideal weight distribution between the axles.
• 🔧 Simple design — less electronics, easier to tune.
• 💰 Lower cost of ownership — no complicated clutches or transfer cases.

However, there are also disadvantages. In winter on rear wheel drive without LSD (limited slip differential) the car turns into a “sleigh”, and on wet roads it requires special attention. In addition, basic versions (for example, Skyline 2000GT with motor RB20E) are often equipped with an open differential, which makes them dangerous in corners with sharp gas.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a rear-wheel drive Skyline R32–R34 be sure to check the condition subframe And silent blocks — they suffer from corrosion and wear, which leads to the car “pulling to the side.”

Model	Drive type	Availability of LSD	Recommendations for use
R32 25GT	FR	Option (VLSD)	Ideal for drifting, but requires suspension tuning
R33 25GT-T	FR/4WD	Yes (on 4WD)	4WD versions are rare, but more reliable in snow
R34 25GT	FR	Option (Helical LSD)	Best balance for street and track

3. All-wheel drive (4WD): ATTESA technology and its secrets

System ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain) debuted on Skyline GT-R R32 and became the hallmark of all-wheel drive versions. Its key feature is electronic torque distribution control between axles (from 0% to 50% on the front axle) depending on road surface conditions.

Here's how it works in practice:

1. Sensors for wheel speed, steering angle and longitudinal acceleration send data to the control unit.
2. If the system detects rear wheel slippage, it connects the front axle via wet multi-plate clutch.
3. In mode 4WD Lock (available on some models) the drive is rigidly locked in a 50/50 ratio.

On generations V35–V37 the system has evolved into ATTESA E-TS Pro, where dynamic torque distribution appeared not only between the axles, but also between the wheels of the same axle (thanks to Active Brake LSD). This made the car even more stable in corners, but complicated the design.

⚠️ Attention: Coupling ATTESA requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km). If you ignore this rule, the system begins to “kick” when switching modes, and repairs cost $1,500–$2,000.

What happens if you drive with a faulty ATTESA?

If the clutch fails, the car automatically switches to rear-wheel drive mode, but this is accompanied by an error C1100 on the dashboard. Driving for a long time in this condition leads to overheating of the differential and failure of the transfer case.

4. Front-wheel drive (FF): a rarity in the Skyline family

Front wheel drive Skyline - This is rather an exception to the rule. Such models appeared only in the 1990s in the line Skyline Cefiro (A31) and some versions Skyline Sedan (HR31) for the Japanese domestic market. They were created with an eye to efficiency and comfort, rather than sport.

Main front-wheel drive models:

• 🚘 Skyline Cefiro A31 (1988–1994) - motors RB20E And RB25DE, box RE4F03A.
• 💼 Skyline HR31 (1986–1990) - basic versions with CA18i.

Why are there so few of them? First, front-wheel drive goes against the philosophy Skyline like a sports car. Secondly, the platform Nissan FM, on which later generations were built, was originally developed for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Therefore, front-wheel drive versions are considered "utilitarian" and are not in demand among enthusiasts.

5. How to determine the drive type by VIN or body?

Upon purchase Skyline in the secondary market (especially if the car is imported from Japan), it is critical to accurately determine the type of drive. Here are some reliable ways:

1. VIN code:
   • 🔢 8th character in VIN: 5 - rear-wheel drive, 6 — all-wheel drive (for R32–R34).
   • 🔢 For V35–V37 all models come with 6 (all-wheel drive by default).
2. Inscriptions on the body:
   • 🏎️ GT-R, 25GT-X, 350GT-8 — always four-wheel drive.
   • 🏎️ 25GT, 200GT - usually the rear one, but you need to check.
3. Visual cues:
   • 🔧 Availability cardan shaft (goes from the transfer case to the front axle) - a sign of 4WD.
   • 🔧Additional differential from the front (visible when going up on a lift).

If you are buying a car remotely, ask the seller for a photo:

• 📸 Vehicle data plates (usually on the door pillar).
• 📸 Engine compartment (on all-wheel drive vehicles the transfer case is visible).
• 📸 VIN code (can be decrypted through services like vin-decoder.net).

6. Which drive should I choose? Comparison for different tasks

The choice of drive depends on how you plan to operate Skyline:

Problem	Recommended drive	Pros	Cons
Drift/track	FR (R32–R34 25GT)	Easy tuning, predictable skidding	Difficult in winter, rear tires wear out
Daily driving	4WD (V35–V37)	Confidence in any conditions	Expensive repairs, high fuel consumption
Tuning for power	4WD (GT-R R32–R34)	Better grip, stability	Complex electronics, limited selection of spare parts

If you live in a region with cold winters, all-wheel drive is almost a must. However, remember that ATTESA does not make the car invulnerable: worn tires or faulty sensors will negate all the benefits of 4WD. For the track, rear-wheel drive is often preferable - it is lighter, easier to set up and allows more precise control of the trajectory.

7. Common problems and myths about the Skyline drive

C Skyline There are many myths associated, especially when it comes to the drive. Let's look at the most common ones:

Myth 1: "All Skyline GT-Rs are all-wheel drive"

This is only true for R32–R34. But GT-R R35 (2007–2022) is already a separate model (Nissan GT-R), which does not belong to the line Skyline and always comes with all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS Pro.

Myth 2: "All-wheel drive increases fuel consumption by 30%"

In practice, the difference between FR and 4WD versions of the same generation is 10–15%. For example, Skyline V35 250GT (FR) consumes ~10 l/100 km, and V35 350GT (4WD) - ~11–12 l/100 km.

Myth 3: “Rear-wheel drive is unreliable in winter”

It depends on the tires and the driver's skills. Many owners R32 25GT They can drive successfully in winter on Velcro or studded tires, but more careful driving is required.

⚠️ Attention: If you buy a four-wheel drive Skyline V35–V37 with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be prepared to change the oil in the transfer case and differentials - this will cost $300–500 for a complete set.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to convert a rear-wheel drive Skyline R32 into all-wheel drive?

Technically yes, but it is extremely expensive. You will need:

• 🔧 Transfer case and front differential (from GT-R).
• 🔧 Cardan shaft and axle shafts.
• 🔧 Control unit ATTESA and wiring.
• 💰 Budget: from $5000 only for spare parts + labor.

It is more profitable to buy a ready-made all-wheel drive version.

What drive does the Nissan Skyline V36 370GT have?

All Skyline V36 (including 370GT) are equipped all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS Pro with electronic control. There are no front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive versions of this generation.

What is the difference between ATTESA E-TS and ATTESA E-TS Pro?

ATTESA E-TS Pro (debuted on V35) has:

• 🔹 Dynamic torque distribution not only between the axles, but also between the wheels (thanks to Active Brake LSD).
• 🔹 Faster response to changing road conditions (sensors with a polling frequency of 1000 Hz vs 100 Hz for the old version).
• 🔹 Possibility of completely locking the front axle in Snow Mode.

Which drive is better for drifting: FR or 4WD?

For classic drift it is preferable rear wheel drive (FR) because:

• 🔥 It’s easier to control the skid.
• 🔧 Cheaper to tune (no need to modify the distribution).
• 🏆 Most drift cars are built on the basis R32–R34 25GT with FR.

However, four-wheel drive (4WD) can also be drifted, but this requires disabling the front axle or using special controllers (for example, Nistune).

How much does it cost to repair an ATTESA system?

The cost depends on the problem:

• 🔧 Oil change in transfer case and differentials: $200–400.
• 🔧 Clutch repair ATTESA: $1500–2500 (including spare parts).
• 🔧 Replacement of the control unit: $800–1200 (used original).

Advice: change the oil in the transfer case regularly (every 60,000 km) - this will extend the life of the system by 100,000+ km.