Nissan Skyline GT-R R32
The 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 was the car that resurrected one of the most storied nameplates in Japanese automotive history. After a 16-year absence following the oil crisis-induced demise of the Kenmeri GT-R, Nissan returned with a vehicle so technologically advanced and so devastatingly effective in competition that it earned the immortal nickname 'Godzilla' from the Australian motorsport press.
At the heart of the R32 GT-R was the RB26DETT engine, a 2,568cc inline-six with dual overhead camshafts, 24 valves, and twin ceramic Garrett T28 turbochargers. Official output was quoted at 280 horsepower, conforming to the Japanese manufacturers' gentleman's agreement that capped advertised power at this figure. In reality, the RB26DETT was widely understood to produce closer to 320 horsepower in stock form, and it responded extraordinarily well to modification.
The GT-R's other defining technology was the ATTESA E-TS (Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system. In normal driving, the system sent all power to the rear wheels, making the car essentially rear-wheel drive. When sensors detected loss of traction, an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch could redirect up to 50% of torque to the front wheels in milliseconds. This system gave the R32 extraordinary traction and stability without the understeer penalty of permanent all-wheel drive.
Additional technology included Super HICAS four-wheel steering, which provided slight rear-wheel steering inputs at speed, and an advanced multi-link suspension at all four corners with electronically adjustable dampers. The braking system used four-piston calipers with ventilated discs at all corners. The overall technological package was among the most sophisticated in any production car of the era.
The R32 GT-R's racing debut was sensational. Entered in the Japanese Touring Car Championship, it was immediately dominant, winning the championship in 1990 and continuing to win through 1993. But it was the car's performance at the 1991 Bathurst 1000 in Australia that created the 'Godzilla' legend. The GT-R team, relatively unknown in Australia, devastated the local V8 Holdens and Fords so comprehensively that the Australian press coined the nickname in a mixture of grudging respect and dismay.
On the road, the R32 GT-R provided a driving experience that was intense, engaging, and deeply rewarding. The RB26's power delivery was muscular and urgent above 3,500 rpm, the ATTESA system provided almost supernatural traction, and the multi-link suspension delivered handling that combined agility with stability. The car could be driven hard in conditions that would defeat most rear-wheel-drive sports cars.
Nissan produced approximately 43,934 R32 GT-Rs between 1989 and 1994, making it far more common than its predecessors but still relatively rare compared to the Skyline range as a whole. Today, the R32 GT-R is legally importable to the United States under the 25-year rule, and demand has driven prices well above historical norms. The car's combination of performance, technology, and cultural significance ensures its position as one of the most important Japanese sports cars ever produced.
Verify the car is a genuine GT-R and not a GTS-t or lower model converted to GT-R appearance. Check the RB26 engine for turbo condition, head gasket integrity, and oil consumption. The ATTESA system should function properly — test on loose surfaces if possible. Inspect the multi-link rear suspension for bush wear and subframe rust. Japanese-market cars may have significant rust. Service history documenting regular oil changes and timing belt replacement is important.
Produced at Nissan's Tochigi Plant from 1989 to 1994. The RB26DETT engine was hand-assembled. Several special editions were produced including the V-Spec and V-Spec II with upgraded components.