When it comes to iconic Japanese cars, Nissan Skyline consistently takes one of the first places. This model, which began its journey in 1957 as a modest sedan, has become a symbol of the Japanese automotive industry - from family cars to supercars Godzilla (as they called Skyline GT-R for his dominance on the tracks). Today Skyline is not just a car, but a whole philosophy that unites fans around the world.
In this article we will look in detail all generations of Nissan Skyline, from the first Prince Skyline to modern Infiniti Q50/Q60 (who, by the way, are the direct heirs of the legend). You will learn about them technical features, the most famous modifications (including GT-R R32/R33/R34), as well as how to choose Skyline for yourself - be it a classic for a collection or a tuning project. We will pay special attention unique series engines RB And VR38DETTthat made these cars legendary.
1. First generation (1957–1963): Prince Skyline - the beginning of a legend
History Skyline started off-brand Nissan, and under the brand Prince Motor Company - an independent Japanese manufacturer that was later absorbed Nissan. The first generation, known as Prince Skyline ALSI-1, debuted in 1957 and was a compact sedan with a 1.5-liter engine GA-30 total capacity 44 hp. Despite its modest characteristics, the car became a hit thanks to:
- 🚗 Innovative design with a panoramic windshield and streamlined shapes (a rarity for Japan in those years).
- 💰 Affordable price — Skyline positioned as a “people’s” car for the middle class.
- 🏆 Success in motorsport: already in 1958 modification Skyline Sport won the race Asama Highlands Race.
In 1962 a version appeared Skyline S21 with body coupe and engine G-1 (1.9 l, 91 hp), which became the first “sports” modification. It's interesting that this one Skyline received for the first time independent rear suspension - a technology that later became the calling card of the model.
⚠️ Attention: First Prince Skyline today they are extremely rare specimens. If you're planning a purchase for the collection, be sure to check VIN number for originality: many cars were lost or converted in the 1960s and 70s.
2. Second to fourth generations (1963–1977): era of merger with Nissan
After takeover Prince company Nissan in 1966, Skyline has become a full-fledged part of the brand line. Second generation (S50, 1963–1968) retained the name Prince Skyline, but already under the logo Nissan. Main changes:
- 🔧 New engines: motors appeared G-7 (1.5 l) and G-15 (1.8 l) with system
SOHC. - 🚘 Expansion of the body line: in addition to the sedan, a station wagon was offered (Skyline Van) and pickup (Skyline Pickup).
- 🏁 Rally debut: Skyline 1500 participated in East African Safari Rally (predecessor WRC).
Third generation (C10, 1968–1972) became revolutionary: it was here that the legendary engine appeared L20 (2.0 l, 130 hp), as well as modification Skyline GT-R (KPGC10) - the first Godzilla. This car dominated Japanese racing JAF Grand Prix, winning 50 wins in a row from 1969 to 1972! Body C10 also became the first Skyline with four-door hardtop (without central pillar).
Fourth generation (C110, 1972–1977) brought radical changes: the car became larger, luxury options appeared (air conditioning, automatic transmission), but GT-R was discontinued due to the oil crisis. Instead it was proposed Skyline GT-X with engine L24 (2.4 l, 160 hp).
- Classic (1957–1977)
- GT-R R32/R33/R34
- Modern (V35–V37)
- Infiniti Q50/Q60
3. Fifth to eighth generations (1977–1993): the era of turbo and RB engines
With the fifth generation (C210, 1977–1981) Skyline finally switched to the platform Nissan and received a modern design with angular shapes. Main innovations:
- 🔥 The first turbo engines: debuted L20ET (2.0 l,
145 hp) is the first turbocharged engine in the line. - 🎯 Focus on comfort: electric windows, central locking and velor interior appeared.
- 🚗 New bodies: in addition to the sedan, a coupe was offered (Skyline Coupe) and station wagon (Skyline Wagon).
Sixth generation (R30, 1981–1985) was a turning point: the legendary engine debuted here RB20DET (2.0 l, 190 hp) - the first in a series RB, who will later be glorified GT-R. In 1983, a modification appeared Skyline RS-Turbo with intercooler and rear-wheel drive, as well as all-wheel drive version Skyline 4WD.
Seventh generation (R31, 1985–1989) brought electronic fuel injection, independent multi-link suspension and the first all-wheel drive system ATTESA (predecessor of the system from GT-R). The most powerful version - Skyline GTS-R with RB20DET-R (210 hp) - became the last "purebred" Skyline before the era GT-R.
Eighth generation (R32, 1989–1994) — most famous. It was here that he made his debut in 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 - a car that turned the world of motorsport upside down. Its characteristics:
| Parameter | Skyline GT-R R32 | Skyline GTS-t Type M |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | RB26DETT 2.6 l, twin-turbo | RB20DET 2.0 l, turbo |
| Power | 280 hp (according to Japanese standards) |
215 hp |
| Drive | ATTESA E-TS (all-wheel drive) | Rear |
| Box | 5-speed mechanics | 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 5.6 s |
7.2 s |
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline R32 GT-R check the engine history: many examples have been subjected to tuning up to 500+ hp, which reduces the resource RB26DETT to 50–80 thousand km without major repairs.
4. Ninth–Eleventh Generations (1993–2002): The Golden Age of the GT-R
Ninth generation (R33, 1993–1998) became an evolution R32: more aggressive design, improved aerodynamics (coefficient Cx=0.32) and new RB26DETT with ceramic turbines. GT-R R33 got the system ATTESA E-TS Pro with electronically controlled torque vectoring, as well as modification GT-R V-Spec with reinforced transmission.
Tenth generation (R34, 1998–2002) — peak of glory Skyline GT-R. This car became famous thanks to:
- 🎮 Participation in a cult game Gran Turismo and films ("Fast and Furious", "Initiation").
- 🚀 Engine RB26DETT with improved turbines Garrett GT25 and the system N1 (for track versions).
- 💻 Multi-information display MFD, showing turbine pressure, oil temperature and other parameters.
The rarest versions R34:
- 🏆 GT-R V-Spec II Nür — limited edition (1000 copies) with improved suspension and brakes Brembo.
- 🔥 GT-R M-Spec — “comfortable” version with soft suspension and leather interior.
- 💰 GT-R Z-Tune (2005) - tuning version from Nismo with engine
500 hpand price$100 000+.
Eleventh generation (V35, 2001–2006) was the last Skyline with engines RB. Made his debut here VQ30DETT (3.0 l, 280 hp) - first V6 twin-turbo in the line. GT-R based on V35 was not released, but a modification appeared Skyline Coupe (CV35) with rear-wheel drive and 6-speed manual transmission.
☑️ What to check when buying a Skyline R34 GT-R
5. Twelfth–fourteenth generations (2006–2020): transition to Infiniti
With the twelfth generation (V36, 2006–2010) Skyline has finally transformed into a premium luxury sedan. Main changes:
- 🔄 Platform change: now Skyline was built on the basis Infiniti G35/G37.
- 🔥 New engine VQ37VHR (3.7 l,
333 hp) with variable valve timing system VVEL. - 🚗 The appearance of the coupe (Skyline Coupe CV36) and crossover (Skyline Crossover).
Thirteenth generation (V37, 2013–2019) was the last to be officially sold under the name Skyline in Japan. In fact it was Infiniti Q50 with a different logo. Made his debut here hybrid engine VR30DDTT (3.0 l, 405 hp) - first turbocharged V6 in the line. There was also a system Direct Adaptive Steering (electronic steering).
Fourteenth generation (V38, since 2019) - this is already complete Infiniti Q50 second generation. From Skyline only the name for the Japanese market remained. Main features:
- 🤖 System ProPILOT (semi-autonomous driving).
- 🔋 Hybrid version e-POWER with electric motor and generator.
- 💻 Dual touch screen InTouch (8 and 7 inches).
Why don't classic fans like Skyline V37/V38?
The main complaint is the loss of the “soul” of the model. Modern Skylines (actually Infiniti Q50) have lost their naturally aspirated and turbo engines of the RB/VQ series, rear-wheel drive (on most versions) and their sporty character. In addition, the design became more "American", losing its Japanese identity. However, these cars are valued for comfort, technology and reliability - completely different priorities than the GT-R R32-R34.
6. Nissan GT-R (R35, 2007–present): Skyline successor?
Although Nissan GT-R R35 does not officially have a name Skyline, he is considered his direct heir. This car debuted in 2007 and became revolutionary thanks to:
- 💥 Engine VR38DETT (3.8 l,
480–600 hpdepending on version). - 🎯 All-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS and 6-speed robotic gearbox GR6.
- 🏁 Record at the Nürburgring (7:29 in 2008 - the best time for a production car at that time).
Comparison GT-R R35 with the last "real" Skyline GT-R R34:
| Parameter | Skyline GT-R R34 (1998) | Nissan GT-R R35 (2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | RB26DETT 2.6 l, twin-turbo | VR38DETT 3.8 l, twin-turbo |
| Power | 280 hp (according to Japanese standards) |
570 hp (Premium) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 5.4 s |
2.9 s |
| Drive | ATTESA E-TS Pro | ATTESA E-TS + GR6 transmission |
Today GT-R R35 remains the flagship Nissan, but its connection with Skyline rather spiritual: the car retained the philosophy of an “affordable supercar”, but lost the atmosphere of the classic Skyline 1990s
If you are looking for a Skyline for tuning, check out the R32-R34 with RB20/25/26 engines. These engines have enormous potential: with proper modification (Garrett turbines, fuel system, ECU) you can get 500–800 hp. without loss of reliability. The main thing is not to skimp on cooling and transmission!
7. How to choose a Nissan Skyline: tips for buyers
Choice Skyline depends on your goals: collecting, daily driving, tuning or track days. Here are the key recommendations:
🔧 For restoration/collection:
- 🏆 Prince Skyline (1957–1963) - extremely rare, prices from
$50 000for original copies. - 🚗 Skyline C10 GT-R (1969–1972) — the first “Godzilla”, price starts from
$150 000. - 💎 Skyline R32 GT-R (1989–1994) - the most affordable classic GT-R (from
$30 000), but prices are rising.
🔥 For tuning:
- 🛠️ Skyline R32/R33 GTS-t - an ideal base for a project on RB20DET (price:
$10 000–$20 000). - 💨 Skyline R34 GT-T - a more modern platform with RB25DET Neo (from
$15 000).
🚗 For daily driving:
- 💼 Skyline V35/V36 250GT - reliable VQ25DD (2.5 l,
220 hp) and rear wheel drive. - 🔋 Skyline V37 Hybrid - economical hybrid (consumption
6–7 l/100 km).
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline from Japan check accident history through services CarVX or JEVIC. Many cars have hidden damage after drifting or racing. Also note chassis number: for example, BNR32 - this is GT-R, and ER34 — GTS-t.
The most reliable Skyline engines are naturally aspirated VQ35DE (V35) and RB25DE (R33/R34). Turbocharged RB20/26 require more frequent maintenance (oil change every 5 thousand km, turbine check every 50 thousand km).
8. The future of Skyline: what awaits the legend?
Officially Nissan did not announce new generations Skyline, but rumors and patent applications give food for thought:
- ⚡ Electric version: in 2021 Nissan patented the name Skyline EV. Perhaps it will be a crossover on the platform Ariya.
- 🔥 Revival of the GT-R: there is information about the development of a new GT-R (code R36) with a hybrid power plant based on VR38DETT.
- 🤖 Autonomous technologies: Future models may receive the system ProPILOT 3.0 (autonomy level
L3).
However, the main question is whether the new Skyline spirit of the original? Fans hope for a return atmospheric engines, rear wheel drive And sporting nature, but market realities dictate other priorities: electrification, crossovers and autonomy.
If Nissan decides to revive Skyline in a classic format, it will become an event for the entire auto world. In the meantime, the legend lives on in the hearts of fans, on the tracks and in virtual races - for example, in Gran Turismo, where GT-R R34 remains one of the most popular cars.
Nissan Skyline is not just a model, but a phenomenon. Its history reflects the evolution of the Japanese auto industry: from modest sedans to supercars, from manual transmissions to hybrids. Despite all the changes, the spirit of the Skyline lives on and its legacy continues to inspire new engineers and riders.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Skyline
🔧 Which Skyline is the most reliable for daily driving?
For everyday use the best choice is Skyline V35/V36 250GT with engine VQ25DD (2.5 l). These machines are different:
- 🔹 Simple design (rear-wheel drive, automatic transmission).
- 🔹 Reliability: engine life -
300,000+ kmwith regular maintenance. - 🔹 Availability of spare parts (many parts are unified with Infiniti G35).
Of the classic models worth considering Skyline R33 GTS25-t with RB25DET, but be prepared for higher fuel and repair costs.
💰 How much does Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 cost today?
Prices for Skyline GT-R R34 vary greatly depending on condition and modification:
- 🔹 Stock copy (without tuning, mileage up to 100 thousand km):
$80 000–$120 000. - 🔹 Modified (tuning up to 400–500 hp):
$60 000–$90 000. - 🔹 Rare versions (V-Spec II Nür, M-Spec):
$150 000–$300 000. - 🔹 Project for restoration (mileage 150+ thousand km):
$40 000–$60 000.
⚠️ Important: Prices rise due to status R34 as a "Japanese classic". If you're looking for an investment car, check out the ones with original paint And full service history.
🛠️ Is it possible to legalize Skyline in Russia?
Yes, but the process has nuances:
- 📄 Cars over 30 years old (until 1993) can be imported as
"rarities"without certification, but with payment of duties. - 🚗 Skyline 1993–2005 require vehicle type approval (VTA) or an individual certificate.
- ⚡ Skyline V35/V36 (2001–2010) can be legalized through
gray import(re-equipment to Russian standards).
💡 Advice: The simplest option is to purchase something already cleared by customs. Skyline from local dealers. The price will be higher, but you will avoid problems with the traffic police.
🏁 Which Skyline is the fastest in the series?
Fastest production version - Nissan GT-R R35 Nismo (2020) with characteristics:
- 🔥 Engine: VR38DETT (3.8 l,
600 hp). - 🚀 Acceleration 0–100 km/h:
2.5 seconds(with starting system Launch Control). - 🏁 Maximum speed:
315 km/h.
Among the "classic" Skyline leader - Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec II Nür (280