Nissan Skyline GT-R

vs

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II

Japan vs Japan — 1989 vs 1994

Nissan Skyline GT-R (1989)
Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II (1994)
Specifications
Skyline GT-R V-Spec (BCNR33)Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II
Horsepower280 hp280 hp
Torque271 lb-ft—
Engine Size2,568 cc—
0-60 mph4.9 sec—
Top Speed155 mph155 mph
¼ Mile13.4 sec—
Weight3,395 lbs3,153 lbs
Wheelbase2,720 mm2,615 mm
Length4,675 mm4,545 mm
Units Produced16,4221,303
Value (Excellent)$120,000—
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

The 1994 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec (BCNR33) counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Nissan Skyline GT-R from 1989 to 1994 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Nissan. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec (BCNR33) producing 280 hp and the 1994 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II delivering 280 hp. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-6 DOHC Twin-Turbo in the Nissan Skyline GT-R versus a Inline-6 Twin-Turbo in the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II. The 1994 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 155 mph. The Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 242 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,303 units built, the 1994 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 V-Spec II is considerably scarcer than the Nissan Skyline GT-R's 16,422 examples.