Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 - a car that became a bridge between the classic atmospheric Skylines and the legendary turbocharged monsters of the 90s. Released in 1986, R31 GT-R became the first in the line with a factory turbocharger, laying the foundation for future race victories and cult status among JDM fans. This model often remains in the shadow of more famous ones R32 or R34, but exactly R31 became the “first step” to the world of high-performance sedans with the system ATTESA and engine RB26DETT.
Unlike its predecessors, Skyline GT-R R31 received not only a powerful engine, but also a revolutionary electronic all-wheel drive system for that time. This made him not only fast, but the first production Japanese car capable of competing with European sports cars on the track. Today R31 GT-R - rarity: many examples were destroyed in races or dismantled for parts, and those that survive become collectibles with price tags exceeding $100,000.
Creation history: why the R31 GT-R was revolutionary
Development Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 began in the mid-80s, when the company Nissan decided to return the legendary name GT-R after a 16-year break. The last "real" GT-R was KPGC110 1973 - a naturally aspirated monster with 160 hp that dominated Japanese racing. However, by 1986 the rules had changed: turbocharging and all-wheel drive were required to win. This is how it appeared R31 - first Skyline with attachment GT-R, equipped with a turbocharged engine and system ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain).
The main goal of engineers Nissan They focused not so much on street dynamics but on track dominance. R31 GT-R created according to the rules Groups A - a class of racing where stock cars are modified for competition. Therefore, even in the basic version the car received:
- 🔥 Engine RB20DET-R — 2.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine with 210 hp. (in racing up to 600+ hp).
- 🚗 ATTESA — an electronic all-wheel drive system with a viscous coupling that distributes torque between the axles.
- 🏁 Sports suspension with adjustable shock absorbers and reinforced stabilizers.
- 🛡️ Aerodynamic body kit, reducing lift at high speeds.
The debut on the track took place in 1987, and already in the first season R31 GT-R won in Japanese Touring Car (JTCC), overtaking Toyota Supra And Mazda RX-7. However, the model brought real fame Peter Brock - Australian racer who R31 won the famous race Bathurst 1000 in 1991 (after the model was discontinued!). This success secured Skyline GT-R nickname «Godzilla» - “God of War”, capable of destroying competitors.
- This is the best GT-R of all time!
- Interesting model, but R32 is cooler
- Too rare and expensive to buy
- I don't know what kind of car this is
Technical specifications: what's hidden under the hood
With my heart Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 became the engine RB20DET-R — modification of the famous inline “six” RB, which later evolved into RB26DETT. Unlike civilian versions, the motor for GT-R received:
- 🔧 Reinforced cylinder block with cast iron sleeves.
- 🌀 Turbine Garrett T25 with intercooler (boost pressure - 0.7 bar).
- 🔥 Higher capacity injectors (270 cc vs 240 cc standard RB20DET).
- ⚙️ Special camshaft with increased phase duration.
The official capacity was 210 hp at 6400 rpm and 265 Nm torque. However, actual performance on the dynamometer often exceeded 230-240 hp — Japanese manufacturers underestimated the data due to a “gentleman’s agreement” to limit the power to 280 hp. (which appeared later, in the 90s).
Gearbox - 5-speed manual with long gears for racing, and the system ATTESA worked on the “30/70” principle (30% power to the front axle, 70% to the rear) in normal mode, but could redistribute up to 50/50 when slipping. Brakes - ventilated discs on all wheels (front - 280 mm, rear - 278 mm) with ABS (optional).
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | RB20DET-R, 1998 cm³, R6, turbo |
| Power | 210 hp (154 kW) at 6400 rpm |
| Torque | 265 Nm at 4800 rpm |
| Drive | ATTESA E-TS (electronically controlled all-wheel drive) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 6.5 sec (according to the log Option) |
If you are planning to tune the RB20DET-R, pay attention to the weak points: the standard Garrett T25 turbine “dies” after 1.2 bar of boost, and the pistons cannot withstand more than 400 hp. without forcing.
Design and interior: why the R31 looks like a racing wolf in sheep's clothing
Externally Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 little different from usual Skyline of that time - this was done specifically to comply with the rules Groups A (the production car had to have at least 5,000 copies). However, upon closer inspection, key differences became noticeable:
- 🚘 Wide wheel arches (20 mm wider than standard R31).
- 💨 Air intakes on the hood to cool the intercooler.
- 🔴 Tail lights with red stripes (brand name GT-R).
- 🏎️ Spoiler on trunk lid to improve the pressure.
Inside R31 GT-R was ascetic: no luxury, only sports seats Recaro (optional), three-spoke steering wheel with logo GT-R and a minimalistic dashboard with a tachometer up to 9000 rpm. It is especially worth noting:
- 📉 No air conditioning in most copies (racers did not need it).
- ⚙️ Gear lever with a short stroke and clear shifts.
- 🔊 Noisy finish — sound insulation was minimal to save weight.
The weight of the car was 1320 kg - 100 kg lighter than civilian versions, thanks to lightweight doors, an aluminum hood (in racing) and the absence of unnecessary options. For comparison: modern Nissan GT-R R35 weighs almost 1800 kg!
Why is the R31 GT-R so rare in original form?
Most of the cars were modified for racing or stripped for parts. Many examples died in accidents due to the aggressive driving style of the owners. The original "surviving" R31s cost like new supercars today.—>
Racing and achievements: how the R31 GT-R became a track legend
Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 was created for one thing - winning. And he achieved them. Main triumphs models:
- 🏆 1987 - victory in Japanese Touring Car (JTCC) in class Group A.
- 🇦🇺 1991 - victory in Bathurst 1000 (Australia) with Peter Brock driving.
- 🏁 1988-1990 - numerous victories in N1 Endurance Series (24 hour races).
The secret of success lay in ATTESA - a system that allowed R31 exit corners on the gas without losing traction. Competitors with rear-wheel drive cars simply could not stay on the track in the rain or on wet asphalt. For example, in Bathurst 1000 1991 R31 GT-R overtook Ford Sierra RS500 for 30 seconds on a wet track!
However, there were also weaknesses:
⚠️ Attention: In the races R31 GT-R often suffered from overheating of the brakes - the standard discs could not withstand the load. Teams installed ceramic pads and ventilated discs from Nismo.
After 1990 R31 gave way R32 GT-R, but its racing continued in the hands of private teams. For example, in Australian Touring Car Championship cars were modified to 500+ hp, installing engines RB26DETT from R32.
Tuning and modifications: how to unlock the potential of the RB20DET-R
Standard RB20DET-R - an excellent basis for tuning, but requires a competent approach. Main directions of modifications:
1. Increased power
- 🌀 Turbine replacement on Garrett GT28 or HKS GT-SS (up to 350-400 hp).
- 🔥 550 cc injectors + fuel pump Walbro 255 lph.
- ⚙️ Lightweight connecting rods and pistons (for example, from JE Pistons).
- 📈 ECU flashing (For example, Haltech or Nistune).
2. Improved handling
- 🚗 Coilovers Tein or Cusco with adjustable hardness.
- 🔄 Limited slip differential (For example, Nismo 1.5-way LSD).
- 🛡️ Reinforced anti-roll bars.
However, there are critical points:
⚠️ Attention: Standard gearbox R31 GT-R withstands up to 350 hp. For higher power, installation is required OS Giken or Holsinger with reinforced synchronizers.
Example of a successful project:
Конфигурация: RB20DET-R + Garrett GT3076 + E85 (этанол)
Мощность: 420 л.с. при 1.5 бар наддува
Динамика: 0-100 км/ч за 4.8 сек
Особенности: Усиленная КПП, керамическое сцепление, полный привод ATTESA с блокировкой центрального дифференциала
Check compression in cylinders|Change oil and filters|Install boost pressure and temperature sensors|Check the condition of the turbine and intercooler
How much does a Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 cost today?
Prices for Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 depend on the condition, mileage and history of the car. In 2026, the market looks like this:
| Condition | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Project for restoration | $30,000 — $50,000 | Rust, faulty engine, missing parts |
| Good (runs, but needs some work) | $60,000 — $90,000 | Original engine, minimal tuning |
| Excellent (competitive, low mileage) | $100,000 — $150,000 | Original paint, interior, documentation |
| Racing version (ex-racer) | $150,000+ | Competition history, modified engine |
The most expensive pieces are those that have a racing history. For example, R31 GT-R, which Peter Brock won Bathurst 1000, was sold at auction for $2.1 million in 2020!
Where to look:
- 🇯🇵 Japanese auctions (USS Tokyo, Goo-net) - the lowest prices, but high risks (rust, hidden defects).
- 🇺🇸 America (eBay, Bring a Trailer) - prices are higher, but the cars are often in better condition.
- 🇦🇺 Australia - many racing examples, but strict import rules.
Before purchasing an R31 GT-R, be sure to check the car's history via JDM Export Check or CarVX — many cars have a “dark past” in racing or accidents.
Problems and weaknesses: what to look for when buying
Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 — a reliable car, but it has typical “illnesses” associated with age and racing:
1. Engine and turbine
- 🔥 Overheating — the standard radiator is small for a turbo engine. Solution: installing an aluminum radiator Koyorad.
- 🌀 Turbine wear — after 150,000 km, replacement or rebuild is required.
- ⚙️ Oil fasting — during aggressive driving, the oil does not have time to return to the sump. Solution: oil accumulator.
2. Transmission and drive
- 🚗 ATTESA viscous coupling wear — leads to “steering” when cornering.
- 🔄 Clutch — the standard one can withstand up to 250 hp, then it needs to be replaced with a ceramic one.
3. Body and rust
- 🛡️ Wheel arches - the most vulnerable place for corrosion.
- 🚘 Thresholds and bottom - require anti-corrosion treatment.
During your inspection, be sure to check:
1. Состояние масла (не должно быть металлической стружки).
2. Люфт в рулевом управлении (износ тяг и наконечников).
3. Работу ATTESA (при пробуксовке должна загораться лампочка на приборке).
4. Целостность лонжеронов (часто гниют в местах крепления подвески).
If you buy an R31 GT-R as a daily driver, be prepared for fuel consumption of 15-18 l/100 km (turbo + all-wheel drive) and high insurance costs (in some countries it is classified as a “sports car”).
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Skyline GT-R R31
🔧 How many Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 were produced?
It was officially produced 816 copies (according to Nissan). However, some of the cars were hand-built for racing and do not have serial numbers.
🏁 Is it possible to legally import the R31 GT-R into Russia or Europe?
Yes, but with reservations:
- 🇷🇺 In Russia it is required vehicle type approval (often presented as a “rarity” through traffic police).
- 🇪🇺 The EU needs individual certification (cost - from €5,000).
- 🇺🇸 In the USA, only cars over 25 years old are legal (rule 25-year import law).
💰 How much does it cost to service an R31 GT-R?
Annual maintenance costs $1,500–$3,000, including:
- 🛢️ Oil and filter change - $150.
- 🔧 Valve adjustment - $500.
- 🌀 Turbine replacement - $2,000–$4,000.
The most expensive parts are spare parts: original parts (for example, an ATTESA unit) can cost up to $5,000.
🔥 Is it possible to install the RB26DETT engine from R32 in R31?
Yes, this is a popular swap, but you will need:
- ⚙️ Modification of engine mounts.
- 🔌 Reworking the wiring for RB26.
- 🚗 Strengthening the transmission (gearbox and clutch from R32).
The cost of the swap is from $10,000 (excluding the donor engine).
🏎️ What is the fastest Nissan Skyline GT-R R31?
The speed record belongs to the racing version R31 GT-R with motor RB30DET (3.0 l), which developed 800+ hp on ethanol. On the drag strip, such a car accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds.