The Nissan GT-R R34 is one of the most legendary cars in automotive history, celebrated for its advanced technology, incredible performance, and significant cultural impact, especially in motorsports and popular media. As part of Nissan's iconic Skyline GT-R lineage, the R34 was produced from 1999 to 2002 and remains a cult classic, widely admired by enthusiasts worldwide.
Power Output: Officially rated at 276 hp (280 PS), but often considered to produce closer to 320 hp in reality.
Torque: 289 lb-ft (392 Nm).
Performance:
0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): Approx. 4.6 seconds.
Top Speed: 165 mph (265 km/h), although this varied depending on model and tuning.
The R34 GT-R could be extensively modified, with many owners tuning it well beyond 500 hp for track or street use.
Transmission:
6-speed Getrag manual transmission (an upgrade from the R33's 5-speed manual), known for precise shifts and durability.
Drivetrain:
The R34 used the ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system, which distributed power between the front and rear axles depending on traction needs. It allowed for maximum grip, making the car highly effective in all driving conditions, especially in performance settings.
Active LSD (Limited Slip Differential) also improved traction and stability.
Suspension:
Advanced multi-link suspension system at the front and rear, fine-tuned for high-performance handling.
Technology and Innovation
The R34 GT-R was packed with cutting-edge technology for its time, making it stand out as one of the most advanced sports cars of the era:
MFD (Multi-Function Display):
One of the most innovative features of the R34 GT-R was the Multi-Function Display (MFD) on the dashboard. It provided real-time information on a variety of parameters, including boost pressure, oil/water temperature, G-forces, and more. This was highly unusual for cars in that era and gave drivers unprecedented insight into their vehicle’s performance.
Super-HICAS:
The Super-HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering) was a four-wheel steering system that enhanced agility at higher speeds by subtly adjusting the rear wheels to improve cornering stability and responsiveness.
Variants
Several special editions of the R34 GT-R were produced, further enhancing its appeal and collectibility:
V-Spec (Victory Specification):
Focused on track performance, with enhanced suspension, better aerodynamics, and more aggressive ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive tuning.
V-Spec II:
An upgrade over the V-Spec with stiffer suspension, larger Brembo brakes, and a carbon fiber hood for weight reduction.
Nür:
Named after the Nürburgring racetrack, this limited edition came with an upgraded engine block (the RB26DETT N1) designed for racing. It had improved durability and was capable of handling even more power.
M-Spec:
A more comfortable, luxury-oriented version with softer suspension and leather upholstery, while still retaining much of the performance of the V-Spec models.
Nismo Z-Tune:
One of the rarest and most coveted versions, the Nismo Z-Tune was a heavily modified R34 created by Nissan’s in-house tuning division, Nismo. It featured a fully upgraded RB28DETT engine with a displacement of 2.8 liters, producing over 500 hp. Only 19 of these cars were built, making them incredibly rare and expensive.
Design and Aerodynamics
The R34 is instantly recognizable due to its aggressive and muscular styling, which is a blend of functional design and Japanese automotive aesthetics:
Exterior:
The car’s wide stance, bold lines, and aerodynamic features like the adjustable rear wing and front splitter were designed to improve downforce and high-speed stability.
The iconic quad round taillights became a signature of the GT-R series, continuing the legacy of the R32 and R33 Skylines.
The front end featured large air intakes and a wide grille, enhancing both cooling and aerodynamics.
Interior:
The cockpit was driver-focused, with racing-style bucket seats and the innovative MFD, offering a race-car-like experience inside.
Cultural Impact
The Nissan GT-R R34 has left an indelible mark on car culture:
Motorsports:
The R34 enjoyed significant success in racing, particularly in the Super GT series in Japan and in various endurance races globally. Its dominance on the track furthered its legendary status as a high-performance machine.
Tuning Community:
The R34 became a favorite among tuners, with its robust RB26DETT engine capable of handling extreme modifications. Some builds easily pushed the car to over 1,000 horsepower, making it a staple in car shows, street racing, and drag racing.
Pop Culture:
The car gained iconic status through its appearance in movies, video games, and media, most notably in the "Fast and Furious" franchise, where it was driven by Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Conner. Its presence in popular video games like Gran Turismo and Need for Speed further immortalized it among car enthusiasts.
Legacy and Collectibility
The R34 GT-R has become one of the most sought-after JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars, especially in countries like the U.S., where it was not originally sold. As of 2024, R34 GT-Rs are now eligible for import under the 25-year rule, making them highly desirable for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Due to its limited production and cultural importance, R34 GT-Rs have seen significant price increases in recent years, with clean, low-mileage examples fetching prices well above $100,000 USD, and special editions like the V-Spec II Nür or Nismo Z-Tune commanding even higher premiums.
