Cars

Nissan SKYLINE GT-R Vspec II Nur (R34)

The R34 series GT-R debuted in January 1999. In a complete turnaround from the chunky R33 series, the R34 was given a compact muscular body with a 75 mm reduction in the total length and a shortening of the wheelbase by 55 mm. Although the engine was the RB26DETT from the R32 series, it was further refined to improve torque, increase responsiveness and reduce weight, with the maximum torque finally breaking into the 40kgm range.

The drive system was also greatly improved. The ATTESA ET-S PRO that controls the distribution of drive force is able to freely change the attitude of the vehicle, delivering handling that allows the vehicle to be controlled at will. The feel of the steering makes it hard to believe it is a 4WD, and even compared to the famous R32, the feel of the driving brings back memories of a previous age.

The even higher performance V-spec employs an all carbon rear diffuser and also comes fitted with active LSD as standard. This V-spec evolved into the V-spec II in October 2000, and was even given a carbon bonnet with a NACA duct.

The limited edition model named the “Nur” was the final special edition GT-R and was released in January 2002. This model, which is associated with Nurburgring, is fitted with an N1-spec RB26 engine, bringing gasps from GT-R fans across the world. However, the GT-R was not able keep up with the wave of exhaust emission regulations that began sweeping the world, and with this final model the GT-R disappeared temporarily from the world of sports cars.