Overview
The Nissan Skyline R31 is a classic Japanese performance car produced between 1985 and 1989. It is part of the famous Skyline lineup and is especially loved by JDM enthusiasts today. The R31 played a key role in shaping the performance Skylines that came after it.
Body Styles
The R31 was available in several body types:
- 4-door sedan
- 2-door coupe
- Station wagon
- Hardtop
This made it popular for both family use and motorsports.
Engine Options
The Nissan Skyline R31 came with multiple engines depending on the market:
- RB20E – 2.0L inline-6, naturally aspirated
- RB20DE – 2.0L inline-6, DOHC
- RB20DET – 2.0L inline-6, turbocharged (most desirable)
- CA18S / CA18DE – 1.8L engines in some models
⭐ The RB20DET is the most famous engine, producing around 180–190 horsepower, making the R31 a strong performer for its time.
Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- 4-speed automatic
Performance-focused models mostly came with manual gearboxes.
Drivetrain
- Mostly Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
- Some models featured Nissan’s early HICAS rear-wheel steering system, improving handling at high speeds
Suspension & Handling
- Front: MacPherson strut
- Rear: Independent suspension
- Known for good balance and stability, especially in turbo models
Motorsport History
The Skyline R31 gained major fame in touring car racing, especially in Australian Group A racing.
The Skyline R31 GTS-R dominated races and earned the nickname:
“Godzilla” (a title later made legendary by the R32)
Nissan Skyline R31 GTS-R (Special Model)
- Limited production (around 800 units)
- RB20DET turbo engine
- Lightweight body
- Built specifically for racing homologation
- Highly collectible today
Interior & Features
- Analog gauges with sporty layout
- Digital dashboard in some variants
- Power windows and air conditioning (market-dependent)
- Simple but driver-focused design
Why the R31 Is Special Today
- First Skyline to use the RB engine family
- Strong motorsport heritage
- Affordable entry into classic JDM culture
- Popular for engine swaps, drifting, and restorations
Common Uses Today
- Classic JDM restoration projects
- Drift builds
- Street performance builds
- Collector cars
Typical Prices (Around the World)
| Region / Market | Typical R31 Price Range |
|---|---|
| UAE / Middle East | ~AED 22,000 – 90,000+ (≈ USD ~$6k–$24.5k+) (JDM Emirates) |
| United States | ~$38,000+ on dealer listings (JDMSupply) |
| India (Classic Import) | ~₹13.75 Lakh (~USD ~$16.5k) (NamasteCar) |
| Private / project cars (varies widely) | Can be lower if sold locally |
The R31 was designed with input from Nissan Australia, making it unique among Skylines.
