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Nissan Skyline R34

JDM · Nissan

Nissan Skyline R34: The R34 Skyline GT-R (1999-2002). The defining Skyline for most enthusiasts. Bayside Blue paint, multi-functio
Photo: TTTNIS / Wikimedia Commons · CC0

The R34 Skyline GT-R (1999-2002). The defining Skyline for most enthusiasts. Bayside Blue paint, multi-function display, V-Spec II Nur.

The Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R (1999-2002) is the third generation of modern Skyline GT-R and widely considered the defining Skyline GT-R. The R34 refined the formula of R32 and R33 with sharper aerodynamics, more aggressive styling, and the famous Bayside Blue paint that became associated with the model. The car uses the same RB26DETT engine as previous Skylines but with revised tuning, the multi-function display dashboard interface, and a sophisticated electronic ATTESA-ETS Pro all-wheel drive system. The R34 GT-R came in numerous variants. Standard GT-R, V-Spec (improved chassis and aerodynamics), V-Spec II (further refined), V-Spec II Nur (the focused track variant, named after Nürburgring), Nismo Z-Tune (the most extreme variant, around 500 horsepower), and various commemorative and limited editions. The Z-Tune is the most desirable; only 19 cars were built between 2003-2005. The R34 was made famous globally through the Fast and Furious 2 (2003) film, where Paul Walker drove a R34 GT-R. The cultural impact was significant; the R34 became one of the most recognizable JDM cars worldwide. Combined with the limited production and the model's engineering reputation, R34 prices have climbed dramatically over the past decade. Production of R34 GT-R was around 11,500 units. Like the R32 and R33, the R34 was sold only in Japan. R34 cars are eligible for US import starting 2024 for the earliest examples. The cars are extremely sought-after in the US market. On WhipJury, R34 GT-R submissions are highly active. Bayside Blue cars in particular reliably top voting. Modified R34 builds with engine work and chassis upgrades are common. The community recognizes the R34 as the defining Skyline.

R34 generations and variants

Standard GT-R. Base R34 GT-R. RB26DETT, ATTESA-ETS Pro AWD, multi-function display.

V-Spec. Improved chassis with stiffer springs, harder dampers, upgraded brakes.

V-Spec II. Further refined V-Spec. Lighter bonnet, BBS wheels, slightly different tune.

V-Spec II Nur. Track-focused. Improved aerodynamics, Nismo BNR34 RB26DETT block, dedicated production run.

Nismo Z-Tune. Limited-edition halo. Around 500 horsepower from highly modified RB26DETT. 19 cars total. Now over $1.5 million each at auction.

R34 GT-R on WhipJury

Bayside Blue R34 GT-R reliably top voting. Various V-Spec variants and Nismo cars do well. Modified R34s with engine work and chassis modifications appear regularly. The community values the R34 as the defining Skyline GT-R.

Frequently asked questions about Nissan Skyline R34

Why is the R34 so famous?
Multiple factors. Engineering reputation as the most refined Skyline GT-R. Famous Bayside Blue paint. Cultural impact through Fast and Furious 2 (Paul Walker's R34 GT-R). Multi-function display dashboard interface. Various Nismo and V-Spec variants. The combination has made the R34 the most globally recognized Skyline GT-R.
Is the R34 GT-R legal in the US?
Yes, since 2024 for the earliest examples. The 25-year rule applies; 1999 R34s became legal in 2024. Subsequent model years follow each year. Imported R34s are now appearing in the US market in increasing numbers.
How much does an R34 GT-R cost?
Significantly. Project R34s: $80,000-$150,000. Driver-quality: $150,000-$300,000. Clean low-mile cars: $300,000-$500,000+. V-Spec II Nur and Nismo cars: $500,000-$1,000,000+. The Nismo Z-Tune: $1,500,000+ at auction. Pricing has appreciated dramatically over the past decade.
Are R34 GT-Rs reliable?
Generally yes. The RB26DETT is durable when maintained. Common issues are timing belt service, turbocharger wear at high mileage, and various age-related items on cars now 25+ years old. Proper maintenance with documented service history extends reliability significantly. The platform has strong specialist support globally.
What is the Nismo Z-Tune?
The Skyline GT-R Nismo Z-Tune (2003-2005, 19 examples) was a limited-edition refurbished R34 GT-R with an upgraded RB26DETT (around 500 horsepower), suspension reworked by Nismo, and racing-derived chassis modifications. Z-Tunes are now extremely valuable; auction prices have crossed $1.5 million.

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