Third Generation Skyline (BNR32)
After the suspension of the GTR generations in 1973, Nissan decided to revive the ever-popular GTR generation in order to replace the GTS-R series that raced in the Group A racing in Japan. Thus the idea and the vehicle design was conceptualized and materialized by the brain child of Naganori Ito, resulting the birth of E-BNR32, or more fondly known as the R32. Due to the rules of racing homologation, Nissan must meet the requirement of minimum of 510 production vehicle before being entitled for Group A racing participation. It was a successful roll out for the initial batch and rave reviews from press and critical acclaims mooted Nissan to officially start an unlimited production run in 1989, and officially start to compete in Group A racing officially in 1990. The first batch of R32 developed 206kW (276hp) and 266lb-ft (361N-m) torque, residing on a 1,430kg of curb weight.
To successfully reflect on what they are doing in the Group A racing, Nissan roll out a special series of R32, known as Nissan Skyline GTR Nismo Edition. Introduced in Feb 1990, with a production run of 560 units, these R32 are part of the requirement to have the “Evolution” series for the homologation. Among the items homologated are the aerodynamics changes used in Group A racing, such as special intercooler ducts, bonnet lips as well as boot lip spoilers for more downforce. These special models are only available in their traditional trademark GunMetal grey .
For domestic N1 racing needs, Nissan introduced another series of the beast in July 1991. Known as the GTR N1 model, 228 units were produced, and notable changes are the engine as well as some weight reduction measures such as carpet removal, ABS omission, sound system, wiper system, etc. With a weight savings of 30kg, these R32 are only available in Crystal white.
In-line with the celebration of the victories in Group A and Group N racing, Nissan introduced the Victory Specification, also known as V-Spec models on February 1993. Brakes were upgraded to Brembo and minor tweaks on the ATTESA E-TS system as well as the inclusion of the BBS alloy wheels with 225/45/17 tires. One year later Nissan introduced the V-Spec II R32 with the only changes to the tire size, to 245/45/17 sizes. Both V-Spec models weight a marginal 50kg more than the non V-spec models. Total production for V-Spec are 1,453units and V-Spec II are 1,303 units.
Overall production count for R32 reached 43,394 units before the production are stopped in May 1993. Total production figures as below:
Production figures
§ Standard Cars = 40,390
§ NISMO Group A Evolution = 560
§ V-Spec = 1,453
§ V-Spec II = 1,303
§ N1 Race Version = 228
§ Total = 43,934
Nissan Skyline GTR BNR32 Nismo Edition
Nissan Skyline GTR BNR32 V-Spec (Front View)
Nissan Skyline GTR BNR32 V-Spec (Rear View)
