Here's a car which works with you, and for you, but never in place of you. There's plenty of communication from the chassis, plenty of poke from the 2.6-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, and electronic gizmos which let you have fun but won't allow things to get out of hand...much.
Nissan claims the Skyline chassis is the most sophisticated in the world. If your yardstick for measuring sophistication is calibrated in electronic aids, there's no argument. All four wheels help to steer and, sometimes, transmit drive. Normally this latter function is done by the rear pair, but within a thousandth of a second of traction loss being computer-detected, the front wheels take up half the task. How cool is that.
Meanwhile the steering is reading your intentions and helping to make them happen. First the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the fronts, to speed the car's turn into a bend and kill any tendency to push off line; then they angle the same way to stabilise any tail-out. With 276bhp and 271lb ft of twist action from the engine, you can loosen the back end, but only momentarily. It can be a little hair-raising at times but I've not felt this safe in many other cars!
It doesn't end there. There's an active limited-slip differential at the rear to channel engine torque left or right depending on where the grip is; big, beefy ventilated disc brakes all round; and an adjustable tail spoiler, though you'll need to be taking liberties with the speed laws to get to the point where you need the extra downforce. You have to adjust it manually, too. The bonnet and front wings are made from aluminium to trim weight and better distribute it.
None of this detracts from the driving experience, and it's blisteringly quick, despite the throttle lag below 3000rpm. Power has been restrained to satisfy Japanese restrictions and the maximum speed is held at 155mph to appease European sensibilities. But it's the phenomenal acceleration which matters most in a country with a 70mph limit. The Skyline is roomy and well-equipped, too, though a trifle drably-trimmed. You can have the Japanese imports delimited and it isn't as costly as you'd imagine. You'll need a delimiter which looks just like a little black box (and maybe with speed you could do with a Black Box). You'll also need someone with sound electrical knowledge. You do get instructions with the delimiter but I wouldn't try doing it yourself. You'll redline at 8000rpm.
The GT-R has a nice computermulti-function display showing torque, power, oil temperature, boost pressure, etc. etc. Its a fun little gadget which will definitely impress your mates. Wide bodied wings and a big front mounted intercooler with aggressive front spoiler...its mean. Electronic Climate Contol Electric Windows and Sunroof
Prices vary according to many things. Firstly you can buy these imports on the grey market (meaning they've been privately imported) or you could opt to buy one which Nissans have imported. However, Nissan only imported 100 of these babies into this country...but it would hold its money for longer.
Overall, driving a GT-R is, lets say, an experience...and if you get the chance to drive one, take it. It handles exceptionally well and sticks to our roads like glue. You feel super safe with the comfy seats and immediate response from the steering.
This really is a high performance car and worth every penny if you can afford it. If you have a bit of a smaller budget try looking at the GT-T first...but be warned, once you've tried the GT-R they'll be no turning back.
I'm a Nissan fan (or thought I was) but have not seen these before. Shame Ciao don't have a picture. Might have to look on Google. Great review! x
Whinger 31.12.2004 07:21
Very Good review. I bought a GTS 2.5 Turbo R33 Model recently (just done a review of it!) - which will do for now, as my budget only permits me to go this far at present. But for the future, I reckon it has to be a GTR!!
darpor 13.07.2004 14:35
Nice to see someone writing an op about this car. I was lucky enough to test drive a 1996 model when I visited my local performance garage. Didnt quite have enough cash to buy it though. Darren.
Advantages: fantastic performance, very reliable, stunning timeless looks, affordable to drive. Disadvantages: britains speed limits and jelly mould cars getting in my way!
anthonymcgrath 14.06.2006 (16.06.2006)
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