The Nissan GT-R R34 is one of the most iconic Japanese sports cars ever produced, part of the Skyline GT-R family, and known for its performance, technology, and motorsports legacy. The R34 GT-R, produced between 1999 and 2002, is the fifth generation of the Skyline GT-R series and has gained legendary status among car enthusiasts, particularly due to its prominence in popular culture, its use in tuning scenes, and its strong motorsport heritage.
1. Overview
Production Years: 1999-2002.
Platform: Based on the Nissan Skyline platform, the GT-R R34 was the ultimate performance version of the Skyline, blending advanced technology with a heritage of motorsport.
Body Style: 2-door coupe with a boxy yet aerodynamic design, the R34 retained the aggressive, wide stance that the GT-R is known for.
2. Engine and Performance
Engine: The R34 GT-R is powered by the famous RB26DETT engine.
Power Output: Officially rated at 276 horsepower (280 PS) due to the Japanese "Gentlemen's Agreement" that limited horsepower ratings for Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars. However, real-world power output was closer to 320 horsepower.
Torque: Around 392 Nm (289 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 RPM.
Redline: The RB26DETT revved up to 8,000 RPM, delivering impressive acceleration and top-end performance.
Performance Figures:
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): Approximately 4.9 seconds.
Top Speed: Around 165 mph (266 km/h), although many tuned versions can far exceed this.
Transmission:
The GT-R R34 came with a 6-speed Getrag manual transmission, known for its durability and precise shifting.
The transmission played a key role in putting the car's power down efficiently, making the R34 incredibly engaging to drive.
3. Advanced Technology
One of the standout features of the R34 GT-R was its advanced technology for the time. Nissan incorporated various systems to ensure maximum performance and handling precision, which were particularly beneficial in motorsports settings.
ATTESA E-TS Pro (All-Wheel Drive System):
The R34 GT-R featured Nissan's ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system. This system used a series of sensors to determine the amount of torque to send to the front wheels, allowing for better cornering, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
The system could split torque between the front and rear axles depending on the driving conditions, helping maintain stability and grip in challenging situations.
Super-HICAS (Four-Wheel Steering):
The R34 GT-R was also equipped with Nissan’s Super-HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering) system, which adjusted the rear-wheel steering angles for enhanced handling and maneuverability.
At higher speeds, it improved cornering precision, while at lower speeds, it helped reduce the turning radius.
Multi-Function Display (MFD):
A unique feature of the R34 GT-R was its Multi-Function Display (MFD) on the dashboard, which was revolutionary at the time. It provided real-time data to the driver, including boost pressure, oil temperature, and more, which helped drivers monitor the car's performance during hard driving or on the track.
The later Nürburgring Edition of the R34 had even more detailed information, including lap times, which made it ideal for performance tuning and track driving.
4. Design
Exterior:
The R34 GT-R featured a distinctive, boxy, and aggressive design that has become iconic. It had a wide stance, large rear wing, and muscular body lines that gave it a strong and purposeful look.
The quad circular taillights are a signature design element of the Skyline GT-R series, and they were carried over in the R34, further cementing its lineage.
Functional aerodynamics, including a front splitter, side skirts, and rear wing, were designed to enhance downforce and cooling for track performance.
Interior:
The interior of the R34 was driver-focused, with supportive bucket seats, a sports steering wheel, and easily accessible controls. The focus on functionality was clear, as the MFD provided real-time data for drivers to use on the track.
The cabin materials were a mix of leather and Alcantara, with a simple yet purposeful design.
5. Variants
Several special versions of the R34 GT-R were produced, each offering unique enhancements for enthusiasts and collectors:
V-Spec (Victory Specification):
The V-Spec models featured upgrades such as improved aerodynamics, a more advanced version of the ATTESA E-TS Pro system, and stiffer suspension tuning for enhanced track performance.
V-Spec II: Introduced later in the production run, it offered even stiffer suspension, carbon fiber features (including a carbon fiber hood), and improved cooling.
M-Spec:
A variant that focused more on comfort, featuring more compliant suspension for improved ride quality while retaining the high-performance nature of the GT-R.
Nür (Nurburg):
The Nür Edition models were special versions named after the Nürburgring racetrack, where much of the R34’s development took place.
These models featured an engine based on the N1 racing spec engine, with improved durability and higher rev limits. They were built in limited numbers, making them highly collectible today.
Z-Tune:
The NISMO Z-Tune is the ultimate version of the R34 GT-R, produced by Nissan’s in-house tuning division, NISMO. Only 19 units were made, and it featured extensive modifications, including a 2.8-liter stroked engine producing 500 horsepower.
The Z-Tune is considered one of the most desirable versions of the R34, with rare features and superior performance.
6. Motorsport Legacy
The R34 GT-R continued Nissan's dominance in motorsport, especially in Group A Touring Car races and the Super GT series in Japan. Its combination of powerful performance and advanced technology made it a formidable competitor on both the road and track.
The R34, like its predecessors, competed in numerous endurance races and is particularly revered for its success in Nürburgring 24 Hours, further highlighting the car’s performance credentials.
7. Cultural Impact
The Nissan GT-R R34 gained widespread fame outside of Japan due to its appearances in popular culture, particularly in the Fast & Furious movie series and video games like Gran Turismo and Need for Speed.
It became an icon in the tuning community due to the ease with which the RB26DETT engine could be modified, with many aftermarket tuners pushing the car to 600+ horsepower and beyond.
8. Legacy and Collectibility
The R34 GT-R is now one of the most sought-after cars by enthusiasts and collectors. Due to its limited production and cultural impact, its value has steadily increased, with well-preserved examples fetching high prices at auctions and in the enthusiast market.
It holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts due to its motorsport pedigree, tuning potential, and status as one of the last true analog Japanese supercars before the introduction of more electronic aids in subsequent models like the R35 GT-R.
