The GT-R made a name for itself in Europe when a standard road car apparently embarrassed Porsche’s lap record at the Nurburgring – sparking an unofficial rivalry between the two companies for over 20 years.
Read the full story of the Calsonic GT-R in the current issue of evo, on sale now.
The first Nissan to wear the GT-R name was a four-door saloon, fitted with a 160bhp DOHC in-line six engine.
Two-door coupe version shortly followed the saloon, with the same powertrain.
New coupe model was short-lived, killed off by the energy crisis in the early 1970s. GT-R name didn't return until 1989...
The original, game-changing Skyline GT-R changed the way the world looked at Japanese performance cars.
Iconic Skyline GT-R racer dominated motorsport, both in Japan and internationally, for several years.
After success in Group N and Group A racing, Nissan launched the first V-Spec model.
Even more high-tech all-wheel drive system, featuring an active diff, for the R33. Legendary straight-six engine remained almost unchanged
The R33 V-Spec was offered alongside the base model with upgraded diff and sophisticated ABS system.
The most extreme R33 model, built by Nismo at the end of the R33's production life. 400bhp as standard...
Skyline GT-R takes another technological leap in 1999, with a new on-board computer.
V-Spec model replaced the standard car's mechanical diff with electronically controlled unit, as well as stiffer suspension
Final special edition for the R34 was given uprated engine and turbos, as well as more luxurious interior.
Dropping the Skyline name, the GT-R is the fastest and heaviest GT-R model to date, with power starting from around 480bhp...
Reviving the Spec-V name in 2009 saw the GT-R go on a diet, with a few exotic options. Cost almost twice the price of the standard model.
Minor exterior facelift in 2011 brought a big power boost – now putting out over 530bhp.
More than 20 years on, the GT-R is still competing well in international motorsport.
More NEWS