Overview
The Nissan Skyline R34 is the legendary successor to the R33, produced between 1999 and 2002. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic JDM sports cars ever, blending cutting-edge technology, aggressive design, and legendary performance. The R34 GT-R cemented the Skyline’s place in automotive history, especially in the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
Fans often call it the “ultimate Godzilla”, a title earned through racing dominance, advanced engineering, and pop culture fame (like in the Fast & Furious movies and Gran Turismo video games).
Body Styles
The R34 was mainly available as:
- 2-door coupe – sporty, aggressive, and aerodynamic
- 4-door sedan – less common but also performance-oriented
Engine Options
The R34 GT-R was powered by the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-6 engine:
- RB26DETT – 2.6L twin-turbo, producing officially 280 hp, but capable of 400+ hp with tuning
- Highly tunable, making it a favorite for street, track, and drift builds
Other R34 Skylines (GTS, V-Spec) used RB25DE / RB25DET engines, offering good performance at lower cost.
Drivetrain & Technology
The R34 GT-R introduced next-level technology:
- ATTESA E-TS Pro AWD system – more precise than R33’s version
- Active LSD (Super-HICAS) rear-wheel steering – improved handling and cornering
- Advanced digital multifunction display – shows turbo pressure, lap times, G-force, and more
- Lightweight chassis and improved aerodynamics
These systems made the R34 GT-R faster, more responsive, and more track-capable than its predecessors.
Suspension & Handling
- Front & Rear: Multi-link
- Improved stability and balance over R33
- Exceptional cornering and high-speed control, making it a perfect platform for tuning and racing
Motorsport Legacy
- Dominated JDM racing circuits in Japan
- Competed internationally in endurance and touring car races
- Legendary among drifting and street racing communities
Interior & Features
- Driver-focused digital dashboard (introduced in GT-R V-Spec II)
- Comfortable and refined cabin
- Functional and sporty design for daily usability without sacrificing performance
Models & Variants
- Skyline GT-R R34 – twin-turbo AWD performance car
- GT-R V-Spec / V-Spec II / M-Spec – advanced models with upgraded suspension, brakes, and tech
- GTS / GTS-t / GTS-4 – turbocharged but less powerful versions
Why the R34 Is Special Today
- Represents the peak of the classic Skyline GT-R line
- Advanced tech and performance for its era
- Extremely collectible, especially V-Spec models
- Iconic in pop culture and video games, giving it a global fanbase
Availability & Price (Quick Overview)
- No longer in production; only available in used/import markets
- Prices are high due to popularity and rarity:
- Standard R34 sedans / GTS: ~$25k–$50k USD
- R34 GT-R V-Spec / M-Spec: ~$90k–$200k+ USD depending on condition and market
The R34 GT-R’s multifunction display was ahead of its time, showing real-time information that many modern cars still don’t have today.
