Nissan Skyline generations & buyer's guide
77 Nissan Skyline listings for sale →The Nissan Skyline has been in production since 1957, spanning twelve generations through the R-series era and beyond. The R-chassis generations — R30 (1981–1985), R31 (1985–1989), R32 (1989–1994), R33 (1993–1998), and R34 (1998–2002) — define the model's performance identity. The R32 revived the GT-R badge after a 16-year absence, introducing the RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six and ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive. The R33 refined the platform with improved stability and the Nürburgring Nordschleife production-car record of 7:59 set in 1995. The R34 shortened the wheelbase, added a 5.8-inch multi-function display, and produced approximately 11,578 GT-R units — fewer than either predecessor — before Nissan spun the GT-R off as a standalone platform (R35) in 2007. All three generations use the same RB26DETT engine core with incremental revisions per generation. Import demand across markets has pushed R34 GT-R prices to six figures as of 2026.
Common across all Skyline generations
- ✓ RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six in all GT-R variants across R32/R33/R34
- ✓ ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive on GT-R variants; RWD on non-GT-R trims
- ✓ Front-engine coupe and sedan body styles across all R-chassis generations
- ✓ 280 PS factory rating across all GT-R generations (Japan voluntary cap); measured output closer to 320–330 PS
- ✓ Right-hand drive throughout all JDM production runs
- ✓ Increasingly eligible for US import under the 25-year NHTSA rule: R32 from 2014, R33 from 2018, R34 from 2023
Generation timeline
R30 (DR30/HR30; 1981–1985)
R31 (GTS/GTS-R; 1985–1989)
R35 GT-R (2007–present — separate standalone platform)
Engine references
Frequently asked questions
- Which Nissan Skyline generation is most commonly imported?
- The R34 GT-R (BNR34, 1999–2002) attracts the most buyer interest due to its pop-culture profile and lower production numbers (~11,578 GT-Rs). The R32 (BNR32, ~43,937 units) became eligible in the USA from 2014 and remains the most affordable GT-R entry. The R33 (BCNR33, ~16,578 units) is increasingly recognized as strong value relative to R32 and R34 prices.
- What is the Nissan Skyline GT-R and how does it differ from other Skylines?
- The GT-R variants (BNR32, BCNR33, BNR34) use the RB26DETT twin-turbo 2.6L inline-six and ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive. Non-GT-R trims (GTS-T, GT-T) use RB20DET or RB25DET engines with rear-wheel drive only. The GT-R also has a 6-speed Getrag gearbox (R34), Brembo brakes (V-Spec), and the Super-HICAS rear-wheel steering system.
- When are Nissan Skyline R32, R33, and R34 legal to import in the USA?
- Under the 25-year NHTSA rule: all R32 model years (1989–1994) have been eligible since 2014–2019. All R33 model years (1993–1998) have been eligible since 2018–2023. R34 model years are becoming eligible progressively: 1998 in 2023, 1999 in 2024, 2000 in 2025, 2001 in 2026, 2002 in 2027. California requires an ARB exemption or compliance for smog registration.
- What does the R35 GT-R have to do with the Skyline?
- The R35 GT-R (2007–present) uses the VR38DETT V6 twin-turbo engine and was launched as a standalone model rather than a Skyline variant. It is not marketed as a Skyline in most markets, including Japan. The R34 was the last generation to carry the Skyline GT-R designation before this separation.
- Is the RB26DETT engine the same across R32, R33, and R34?
- The core architecture is shared, but each generation received incremental revisions. Factory rating was 280 PS (Japan's gentleman's agreement cap) across all three generations; measured output at the time was typically 320–330 PS in standard form. The R34 GT-R's RB26DETT received the most refined fuel and ignition mapping of the three. The engine responds well to turbine upgrades and can support 500–1,000+ whp with supporting modifications on a built bottom end.
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