The Nissan Skyline is a line of compact cars, sports cars and compact executive cars originally produced by the Prince Motor Company starting in 1957, and then by Nissan after the two companies merged in 1966.
| Nissan Skyline | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Prince Nissan |
| Production | 1957–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Compact (1957–1989) Sport compact/Midsize (1989–2002) Compact executive car (2001–present) Hybrid electric vehicle(2014―present) Sports Coupe (2007-2017) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Prince Sedan (1952–1957) |
After the merger, the Skyline and its larger counterpart, the Nissan Gloria, were sold in Japan at dealership sales channels called Nissan Prince Shop.
The Skyline was largely designed and engineered by Shinichiro Sakurai from inception, and he remained a chief influence of the car until his death in 2011.
Skylines are available in either coupé, or sedan body styles, plus station wagon, crossover, convertible and pickup/sedan delivery body styles. The later models are most commonly known by their trademark round brake and tail lights (as of 1972). While not distributed in the United States until its importation as the Infiniti G, the Skyline's prominence in video games, movies and magazines resulted in many such cars being imported there from 1989 to late 2005 via Motorex. The majority of Skyline models are rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive being available since the eighth-generation's debut.
The 11th-generation Skyline (V35) was another major turning point for the nameplate, as it dropped some of the previous generation Skyline's trademark characteristics such as the straight-6 engine (replaced with a V6) and turbocharging, and eventually separated the GT-R into its own line. Nissan decided to retain the Skyline for the luxury-sport market, while its platform-mate, the 350Z, revived the Z line of pure sports cars. The V35 was the first Skyline made for export to North America, being sold under Nissan's luxury marque Infiniti as the G35. The Skyline (V36/J50) is sold in Europe, North America, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Middle East as the Infiniti G37.
On April 11, 2010 a Guinness Book of Records event took place with 225 Skylines taking part in a parade lap at the ISTS at Silverstone UK which produced two world records: the most recorded Nissan Skylines at one meet at one time, and Most Nissan Skylines on a track at the same time.
Prince Skyline ALSI/BLSI
| Prince Skyline ALSI/BLSI/BLRA-3 | |
|---|---|
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Prince Skyline ALSID-1 |
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| Overview | |
| Production | 1957–1964 33,759 units sold |
| Assembly | Mitaka, Japan |
| Designer |
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| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
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| Layout | FR layout |
| Related |
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| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
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| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,535 mm (99.8 in) |
| Length | 4,280 mm (168.5 in) |
| Width | 1,675 mm (65.9 in) |
| Height | 1,535 mm (60.4 in) |
| Curb weight | ~1,300 kg (~2900 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Prince Sedan |
ALSI-1 series
The first Nissan Skyline was introduced in April 1957 it was built by Gerardo Reyes, by the Prince Motor Company, and was marketed as a luxury car. It featured a 1.5 L (1,482 cc) GA-30 engine (also known as FG4A-30) producing 44 kW (60 hp) at 4,400 rpm. It used a de Dion tube rear suspension and was capable of 140 km/h (87 mph). The car weighed around 1,300 kg (2,900 lb). Skylines were produced as four-door sedans and five-door station wagons. Two models were available: the ALSIS-1 standard and the ALSID-1 Deluxe. The ALSI-1's appearance seems to influenced by 1950s American cars (the front end was similar to the 1957 Chevrolet); the car featured rear tail fins, chrome molding and two-tone paint.
ALSIS-1
The ALSIS-1 standard model featured a grille with a large center bar with 6 vertical slats above it. The side strips ran straight from the rear of the car to the front doors, where it dipped into a V-shape, widening and kicked upwards until it hit the front of the car. The side badge said "Skyline".
ALSID-1 Deluxe
The ALSID-1 Deluxe featured a different grille compared to the standard model. The large center bar was absent and instead a pair of fog lights are mounted just inside of the front turn signals. Between the fog lights "PRINCE" is spelled out in individual gold letters. A painted side strip, surrounded by a chrome strip ran horizontally the length of the car, widening from front to back. On this side strip was the side badge, which said "Skyline Deluxe".
The Skyline also spawned the ALPE double cab pickup truck and the ALVE delivery van, both marketed as the Skyway.
ALSI-2 series
The ALSI-2 series was released in October 1959 and was nearly identical to the ALSI-1 series except for the engine. Higher quality fuel allowed for an increase in compression and a power increase to 70 hp (71 PS). This new engine was designated the FG4A-40 (this engine was also known as the GA-4).
In February 1960 the ALSI-2-1 series was released. The Deluxe, along with the commercial variants, were updated with quad headlights (the standard model retained the twin headlights). The side strip design was changed on standard models; the V-shape in the side strip was moved from the front doors to the rear doors. On Deluxe models the side strip design remained the same. The standard model gained quad headlights in September 1960 with the release of the ALSI-2-2 series.
BLSI-3 series
In May 1961 the BLSI-3 series was released. The 1500 engine used in the ALSID Deluxe was dropped and instead used the 91 hp (92 PS) 1.9L GB-4 (also known as FG4B-40) OHV four-cylinder engine from the Gloria. The BLSI series was otherwise identical to the ALSI series, except for a "1900" badge on the side. The standard model received the new engine in October 1961.
Commercial variants remained available, also equipped with the new engine.
S21 series
In September 1962 the S21 series was released. It was in production until November 1963. The front end was redesigned in an attempt to update the look of the car. The result was rather unsuccessful as the car now looked like a 1950s body with a 1960s front end. The S21 continued to use the 1.9L GB-4 engine.
The 3-door van was dropped and replaced with a 5-door station wagon; a double cab pickup truck remained available.
BLRA-3 Skyline Sport
The S21 Deluxe-based Skyline Sport featured hand-built Michelotti bodies in stylish coupe and convertible versions. These cars used the 1.9 L GB-4 engine from the S21D. While only a few hundred were built, Prince Motors had a very aggressive product placement group and they can be seen (along the company's mainstream models) in many Toho films of the early 1960s. The canted headlights reflected a similar appearance on the late 1950s through early 1960s Lincoln Continental, Buick and Chrysler 300. The appearance is similar to the 1960s Lancia Flavia as Michelotti did contribute to Lancia vehicles during this time. Being the first sports-focused model, the Skyline Sport foreshadowed the Skyline GT-R sub-range.
S50/S54/S57
| S50/S54/S57 | |
|---|---|
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Prince Skyline 1500 DeLuxe S50D-1 |
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| Overview | |
| Also called |
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| Production | 1963–1968 114,238 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
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| Layout | FR layout |
| Related |
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| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
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| Transmission |
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| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,590 mm (102.0 in) |
| Length |
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| Width | 1,495 mm (58.9 in) |
| Height |
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| Curb weight | 960–1,070 kg (2,120–2,360 lb) |
S50
In 1961 Fuji Precision Industries changed its name to Prince Motor Company after the 1954 merger. Two years later, in September 1963, the S50 Skyline Deluxe series was launched. Like its predecessor, it came in sedan and wagon bodystyles. This was the second generation car, and became one of the more desirable cars in Japan. It was powered by the G-1 engine, a 68 hp or 70 PS (51 kW) version of the old GA-4. The S50 series were available with a three-speed column shift transmission, or a four-speed floor shift transmission from February 1965 (Deluxe only), either as a four-door sedan (S50) or a five-door wagon (W50). A two-speed automatic option was added to the Deluxe in June 1966. The lower priced and equipped Standard model was added in April 1964; aiming at taxi operators and others it also lacked bumper overriders, making it 11 cm shorter. Three main models of the S50 were built: the S50-1 (1964–1966), the lightly facelifted S50-2 (1967–1968) and the S50-3 (1968). These all used the same engine, with the later S57 receiving a more modern unit. In Japan its market position was refocused as a competitor to the Datsun Bluebird and the Toyota Corona.
Externally, the S50-1 was installed with rounded brake lights and integrated tail lights, with a centrally installed turn signal, similar in appearance to the Ford Galaxie of 1960. The significant appearance change from the previous generation seems to reflect a similar approach done by German company BMW in 1962, in deciding to build a small, affordable, performance coupe and sedan.
The S50 was sold in some markets with an A150 designation. In European markets (and other export markets), it was also marketed as the PMC-Mikado A150. The S50-2 was also sold as the S56SE A190D, which was equipped with the 55 hp (56 PS) 1.9 liter D-6 OHV diesel engine. This model had trim and equipment levels similar to the S50S-2. In Europe, period testers commented on the car's compact size (more like a 1.0 than a 1.5) and its sprightly performance, in large part due to the extremely low gearing. The car's ample lighting was also noted, offering twin headlights, a bevy of warning lamps, numerous engine room light fittings, etcetera. Also lauded were the cars road manners, as evident by the six-cylinder Skyline's competition successes.
In 1966, Nissan and Prince merged and the S50 also appeared with Nissan Prince Skyline badging. This model lasted in production through 1967. In October 1966, the S50-2 was introduced. This light facelift included a new grille and taillights, as well as changes to the interior, and with the addition of an extraction vent on the C-pillar. It was sold as Prince Skyline, Prince A150, or PMC A150, depending on the market. All "Prince" dealership locations were added to the existing Nissan/Datsun Japanese dealerships, while retaining the Prince name to become Nissan Prince Store.
In August 1967 the S50-3 was introduced. The tail lights and front side indicators were changed to a rectangular shape, but otherwise the car remained identical to the S50-2 series. The S50-3 was the last Prince model to use the G-1 engine.
S54
Prince created a racing GT Skyline in May 1964. It was based on the S54 and used the G-7 engine from the Gloria S41, though the car needed a 200 mm (8 in) extension to the wheelbase (all forward of the cowl) to provide space in the engine bay for the inline six. When it entered the second Japanese Grand Prix they hoped to win the GT-II class. Competitive against the Porsche 904, the Skyline managed second through to sixth places. It's made only 100 and name S54ー1 Largely due to the success of the race vehicle, the Prince Skyline 2000GT (also called GT-A, GT-B, S54A and S54B) was released to the Japanese market. (S54A(B)ー2 )There were two versions produced:
- S54A – 1,988 cc G-7 single-carburetor straight six, 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp)
- S54B – 1,988 cc G-7 triple-carburetor straight six, 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 5,600 rpm
The B model featured three Weber 40DCOE-18 carburetors, a limited slip differential, five-speed close ratio strengtheing piston conrod crankshaft and crankmetal manual transmission, and power brakes. Both the B and A used front disc brakes with dual pistons and alloy finned drums in the rear.
S57
In August 1967 Prince released an upmarket version of the S50D-3 called the S57. It used a new engine of Prince's (designed before the merger with Nissan), the OHC 1.5 L (1483 cc) G15. At 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp), it was the most-powerful engine in the Japanese 1500 cc class. The S57D was identical to the S50D-3 except for a "88" badge in the grille (for 88 PS) and an "OHC" badge above the right side reversing light.
C10
| C10 | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Production | 1968–1972 310,447 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
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| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
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| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm (103.9 in) (sedan) |
| Length | 4,430 mm (174.4 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,595 mm (62.8 in) |
| Height | 1,405 mm (55.3 in) (sedan) |
The C10 series of 1968, which began its development under Prince at the company's Ogikubo R&D centre in the suburbs of Tokyo, was marketed with a Nissan badge. By the time the C10 went on sale, the Prince nameplate had been completely phased out on cars and trucks. The dealer network selling the cars became the Prince channel of Nissan, and the marketing group stayed at the Prince headquarters in Mita instead of moving to Nissan's headquarters in Ginza. The C10 Skyline was launched with Prince's 1.5 L OHC G15 I4 like the S57. A 1.8 L G18 version was also available. A station wagon variant, known previously as the Prince Skyway, was offered with this generation. A hardtop coupé was introduced in October 1970.
The brake- and tail-lights were modified to square units, but now included dual units for both the left and right side of the vehicle. As the Skyline was now a Nissan product, it was repositioned above the Bluebird as a more sport-oriented sedan and coupe, while the Bluebird remained more economical. Its appearance shows some resemblance to the earlier 1961 Fiat 2300, designed by Pininfarina.
2000GT-X
In 1971, the KGC10 2000 GT-X received a 2.0 L (1,998 cc) L20 straight-six engine instead of the Prince G-7 engine. The chassis was already designed to fit a straight six, to avoid the S54 extension problem. 120 PS (88 kW) was available from this new engine. In March 1972 expanded the lineup to include a four-door GT-X sedan.
2000GT
1968Oct the GC10 2000GT received a 2.0 L (1998 cc) L20 I6 engine like the Nissan Cedric instead of a Prince G-7 engine. The chassis was already designed to receive a straight six, to avoid the S54 extension problem. 105 hp (78 kW) was available from this new engine, in 1970 Nissan production Skyline 2000GT Automatic, in October 1970 Nissan introduced 2 Door Coupe.
GT-R
The first GT-R Skyline appeared in February 1969. Called the PGC-10 (KPGC-10 for later coupé version) internally and Hakosuka (ハコスカ) by fans. Hako (ハコ) means Box in Japanese, and suka（スカ） is short for Skyline (スカイライン; Sukairain). It used the 2.0 L (1998 cc) S20 I6. This new DOHC engine (which was designed by the former Prince engineers) produced 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m), and was similar to the GR8 engine used in the Prince R380 racing car.
The GT-R began as a sedan, but a 2-door coupé version was debuted in October 1970 and introduced in March 1971. The cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment to be as light as possible for racing, and performed well at the track. The sedan racked up 33 victories in less than two years, and the coupé stretched this to 50 through 1972.
The C10 raced against many cars including the Toyota Corona 1600GT (RT55), Isuzu Bellett GTR, Mazda Familia (R100) & Capella (RX-2) – even Porsche. In late 1971 the new Mazda RX-3 became the GT-R's main rival. The GT-R managed a few more victories before the RX-3 ended the GT-R's winning streak.
Models:
- 1500 – 1.5 L G-15 I4, 88 hp (71 kW, 128 N m)
- 1500 – 1.5 L G-15 I4, 95 hp (71 kW, 128 N m)
- 1800 – 1.8 L G-18 I4, 105 hp (78 kW, 150 N m)
- 2000GT – 2.0 L L20 I6, 120 hp (90 kW, 167 N m)
- 2000GT-R – 2.0 L S20 I6, 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m)
Body styles
- C-10 4-door sedan or 5-door wagon 1968
- GC-10 4-door 2000GT 1969
- PGC-10 4-door GT-R Skyline 1969
- KPGC-10 2 Door GT-R Skyline 1970
- KGC-10 2000GT-X 2-door 1971
- KGC-10 2000GT-X 2-door 1972
- HGLC10 2000/2400GT 4-door Left Hand Drive
C110
| C110 | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Also called | Datsun 160K Datsun 180K Datsun 240K |
| Production | 1972–1977 670,562 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.6 L G16 OHC I4 1.8 L G18 OHC I4 2.0 L L20B OHC I4 2.0 L L20A OHC I6 2.0 L S20 DOHC I6 (GT-R) 2.4 L L24 OHC I6 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,610 mm (102.8 in) |
| Length | 4,460 mm (175.6 in) |
| Width | 1,625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Height | 1,395 mm (54.9 in) |
The C110 generation was produced from 1972 through 1977. For export in the 1970s, the C110 and GC110 Skyline was sold as the Datsun K-series, with models such as the Datsun 160K, 180K and Datsun 240K.
The body styles were, once again, four-door sedan, two-door hardtop coupé, and five-door station wagon. The C110 was more fussy in its styling than its predecessor, particularly so in wagon form, where unusually for a wagon design, no windows were fitted between the C and D pillars. Its appearance seems to be influenced by the 1970–1975 Citroën SM. The C110 was the first version to return to the round rear tail and brake lights introduced in 1963 albeit with dual units from the previous generation, and the appearance has become a traditional Skyline feature. The styling also influenced a smaller, more affordable two-door coupe, called the Silvia, introduced in 1975. Nissan introduced its emission control technology, primarily consisting of fuel injection on trim packages ending with an "E", using the moniker Nissan NAPS also in 1975.
The C110 Skyline was better known as the "Ken & Mary" or "Kenmeri" (ケンメリ) Skyline, stemming from the advertisement campaign in Japan at the time which featured a young couple (Ken and Mary) who relaxed and enjoyed the countryside in Ken and Mary's Skyline (ケンとメリーのスカイライン). The ads were highly successful and perhaps as a result the C110 was sold in very large numbers in Japan. It sold just as well in Australia (in a 2.4L 6-cylinder form, badged as "Datsun 240K"), though few survive today. There, the 240K was about the same price as a Ford Falcon GT or BMW 5 series, around AUD$5000.
GT-R
The Nissan Skyline GT-R hardtop arrived in September 1972 but only lasted until March 1973, when Nissan ceased its production. The oil crisis saw many people preferring economy cars and high-performance sports cars were looked down upon. Nissan pulled out of Motor Racing, so there was no purpose to the GT-R. It was not officially exported anywhere, although Nissan contemplated exporting to Australia. Only 197 KPGC110 GT-Rs were ever sold in Japan, through specialist Nissan Performance shops (before it was called NISMO). This was the last GT-R for 16 years until the BNR32 in 1989.
Models:
- 1600 – 1.6 L G16 I4
- 1800 – 1.8 L G18 I4
- 2000GT-X – 2.0 L L20A I6, 130 hp (96 kW, 172 N m)
- 2000GT-R – 2.0 L S20 I6, 160 hp (118 kW, 180 N m)
C210
| C210 | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Also called | Skyline Japan Datsun 180K/240K/280K Datsun Skyline |
| Production | 1977–1981 539,727 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupé 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Nissan Laurel |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1,595 cc L16T I4 1,595 cc Z16S I4 1,770 cc L18T/L18E I4 1,770 cc Z18/Z18E I4 1,952 cc Z20E I4 1,998 cc L20E I6 1,998 cc L20ET turbo I6 2,393 cc L24/L24E I6 1,952 cc LD20 diesel I4 2,792 cc LD28 diesel I6 |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic 3-speed manual 4-speed manual 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,515 mm (99.0 in) (C210/211) 2,615 mm (103.0 in) (GC210/211) |
| Length | 4,315 mm (169.9 in) (Wagon) 4,400 mm (173.2 in) (C210/211) 4,600 mm (181.1 in) (GC210/211) |
| Width | 1,625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Height | 1,385–1,425 mm (54.5–56.1 in) |
The succeeding C210/211 and GC210/211 of 1977 continued to split the Skyline range into basic and six-cylinder models, the latter with a longer wheelbase and front end. This line continued through 1981. A rare variant would be the wagon version, which had a unique styling treatment behind the rear doors, of a much smaller window than usual between the C and D pillars. The Skyline received an internal and external facelift in late 1978, which led to a change of the model code from 210 to 211. This was also when the Skyline first appeared in several European export markets, such as Germany.
The GT-EX replaced the discontinued GT-R with a turbocharged engine, the L20ET. As installed in the recently renewed Nissan Cedric/Gloria, this had been the first turbo engine to power a Japanese production vehicle. One notable aspect of the turbo versions was that they were not intercooled and there was no form of blowoff valve, only an emergency pressure release valve. As usual with Japanese cars of this period, there were four- or five-speed manuals and a three-speed automatic, with a column-shifted three-speed manual available on lower end cars and vans.
The "T" designation on the L16T and L18T does not signify a turbocharger was included; it denotes that those engines came with twin carburetors. The L-series engines were all switched to the cross-flow Z-series in late 1978. The larger 2.4 litre inline-six was never offered in the domestic Japanese market; having been reserved for export. Export engines were rated in DIN horsepower, so while a Japanese-spec L24 promised 130 ponies, European market cars with the same engine only claimed 113 PS (83 kW). On the other hand, European buyers could also get the fuel injected L24E with 127 or 130 PS (93 or 96 kW) DIN, about on par with what the turbocharged GT-EX offered. Originally marketed as the Datsun 240K-GT in Europe, the fuel injected version was sold as the Datsun Skyline in most markets where it was available. It has a claimed top speed of 186 km/h (116 mph).
In June 1980 the two-liter, fuel injected inline-four Z20E engine was added to the lineup, as was the 2.8 liter straight-six GT-Diesel with 91 PS (67 kW).
Models:
- 1600TI – 1.6 L Z16 I4, 95 PS (70 kW), 13.5 kg·m (132 N·m)
- 1800TI – 1.8 L Z18 I4, 105 PS (77 kW), 15.0 kg·m (147 N·m) - the similar L18 received a claimed 77 PS (57 kW) DIN in European export markets.
- 1800TI-EL – 1.8 L Z18E I4, 115 PS (85 kW), 15.5 kg·m (152 N·m)
- 2000GT-EL – 2.0 L L20E I6, 130 PS (96 kW), 17.0 kg·m (167 N·m)
- 2000GT-EX – 2.0 L L20ET turbo I6, 145 PS (107 kW), 21.0 kg·m (206 N·m)
- Datsun 240K-GT – 2.4 L L24 I6, 142 PS (104 kW) DIN, 18.0 kg·m (177 N·m), 180 km/h (110 mph), 0–100 km/h in 13.5 s.
R30
| R30 | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Also called | Newman Skyline |
| Production | 1981–1985 406,432 units sold |
| Assembly | Japan: Musashimurayama |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe 5-door hatchback 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Leopard |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1,770 cc Z18S I4 1,809 cc CA18E I4 1,952 cc Z20E I4 1,990 cc FJ20E DOHC I4 1,990 cc FJ20ET DOHC turbo I4 1,998 cc L20E I6 1,998 cc L20ET turbo I6 2,393 cc L24E I6 2,753 cc L28E I6 2,792 cc LD28 diesel I6 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,620 mm (181.9 in) |
| Width | 1,675 mm (65.9 in) |
| Height | 1,385 mm (54.5 in) |
The names were brought into line with the home Japanese and worldwide markets with the launch of the R30 series in August 1981, which was built on a C31 Laurel platform. Unlike preceding generations, four- and six-cylinder versions now shared a front end of the same length. The R30 was available as a two-door hardtop coupe, a four-door sedan, a five-door hatchback (available only in the R30 generation), or a four-door station wagon. In all, there were 26 variations of the R30 Skyline available.
All versions with the exception of the wagon were usually fitted with the four round tail lights that had become a regular feature to the Skyline's design. The wagon had different tail lights, headlights, and no turbo or six-cylinder versions available. It more closely resembled a Nissan Sunny than a Skyline. The two-door coupé had a hardtop, pillarless design, and featured roll-down quarter windows for the rear seat passengers (a styling feature of the previous C10, C110, and C211 coupes), while four-door versions had a traditional sedan body style with framed windows.
Nissan Australia launched the R30 sedan in November 1981, with standard air conditioning, AM/FM radio cassette stereo, digital clock, intermittent wipers, five-speed manual or optional three-speed automatic. This was fully imported from Japan. The hatchbacks were released to the market in August 1982. The facelift model launched in Australia during November 1983. Notably, configurations of the R30 sold in Australia and New Zealand were missing the traditional hotplate tail lights, instead opting for more conventional styling.
Export markets also received some larger (albeit less powerful) engines, in the form of 2.4 and a 2.8 liter inline-sixes of 120 PS (88 kW) or 139 PS (102 kW). The 2.8 was added in September 1982.
Various engine configurations were available, initially ranging from the top of the line 103 kW SOHC 6-cylinder turbo L20ET to the 4-cylinder Z18S and 6-cylinder LD28 diesel versions at the other end of the scale. The all-new 16-valve DOHC FJ20 engine debuted in late 1981, and was the first four-cylinder engine from any Japanese manufacturer to employ more than two valves per cylinder (see below). Some of the top spec models featured adjustable suspension dampers that could be adjusted while driving, this was another first for mass-produced JDM vehicles. Nissan Glorias and Laurels also used the L series engines, as well as some diesel (Laurel only) variants.
The R30 range was facelifted in August 1983 with various changes across the board; for example four-wheel disc brakes were now standard issue, instead of being optional for lower-spec models. Trim specifications were revised and the 4-cylinder Z18S engine was replaced with the newer CA18E. Features included upgraded interior trim, new front and rear bumpers, door-mounted wing mirrors (replacing the old 'hockey stick' fender mirrors), and smoked tail lights.
During 1983 the Paul Newman Version R30 was released to commemorate the association between Nissan and the actor Paul Newman, who used to appear in promotional material, as well as race for the company during the late-1970s and early-1980s. The Newman Skyline was simply a top spec GT-ES turbo with signature embroidery and decals.
RS
Although making about the same power as the L20ET-powered GT-ES models, the version of the Skyline initially known as the 2000RS was released on October 2, 1981 as more of a stripped-down lightweight racer, without as many luxury extras included (quoted curb weight was only 1,130 kg (2,490 lb)). These were equipped with the naturally aspirated 4-valve-per-cylinder DOHC FJ20E engine generating 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) of power at 6,000 rpm and 181 N·m (133 lb·ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The official Nissan chassis designation for all FJ20-powered models was DR30.
In February 1983 the DR30 range received a significant boost in performance with the introduction of the turbocharged FJ20ET engine in the 2000RS-Turbo. Front brakes were also significantly upgraded to cope with the power increase. Now with 140 kW (190 PS; 188 hp) of power at 6,400 rpm (measured on a gross basis) and 225 N·m (166 lb·ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm on tap, the FJ20ET enjoyed new-found prestige as the most powerful Japanese production engine of its era.
Nissan sought to elevate the status of the DR30 Skyline as their new flagship model in light of this success, and it received a generous amount of changes to distinguish it from lesser Skyline models in August 1983. Interior equipment was significantly upgraded to now include electric windows, air conditioning and power steering as standard in the new RS-X model (for Extra) with an increased curb weight of around 1,235 kg (2,723 lb) it also included a driver's seat with multi-way power lumbar adjustment, anti-skid control, fog lamps, rear deck spoiler and other features such as dimmable instrument cluster lighting; gone were the days of the spartan, stripped-out race interior, although this could still be specified at time of purchase. But by far the most striking change to the RS was the new unique front end treatment, nicknamed Tekkamen (鉄仮面) or Iron Mask by fans for its distinctive look. The headlights were considerably slimmer, and instead of a conventional grille the bonnet now sloped down to two narrow slits above a facelifted front bumper and airdam.
Further enhancements were made for 1984, most notably the addition of an air-to-air intercooler allowing the compression ratio to be increased from 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 with revised turbocharger exhaust housing to the FJ20ET powered model increasing output to 205 PS (151 kW) of power at 6,400 rpm (gross) and 245 N·m (181 lb·ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The intercooled model was nicknamed the Turbo C. The Turbo C formed the basis for the Super Silhouette race car built by GT-R Works and sponsored by Tomica and run in the All Japan Sports Prototype Championship under FIA Group C regulations.
An automatic transmission option was also added 1984. Changes to the "PLASMA Spark" ignition system followed in early 1985 towards the end of R30 production.
To this day the FJ20-powered R30 Skyline remains a cult car both at home and overseas (there are still dedicated "one make" drag racing events for this model in Japan), and is credited with rejuvenating the Skyline brand in the early 1980s. It also paved the way for the eventual re-introduction of the legendary GT-R badge, markedly absent since the end of C110 Skyline production in 1973.
The DR30 achieved success in Australian touring car racing during the mid-1980s. The factory backed Peter Jackson Nissan Team made its Group A debut in the opening round of the 1986 Australian Touring Car Championship, and over the 10 round series, lead driver George Fury would win four of the rounds and it was only unreliability in the first two rounds that cost Fury the title, finishing only 5 points behind the Volvo 240T of Robbie Francevic. Fury then went on to finish second to the BMW of Jim Richards in the 1986 Australian Endurance Championship, winning four of the six rounds, though failures to finish in the opening round at Amaroo Parkin Sydney, as well as a DNF at the James Hardie 1000 at Bathurst cost him the title. Team driver Garry Scott would put the DR30 on pole for the James Hardie 1000 before going on to finish third with young charger Glenn Seton. Despite missing out on the drivers title, Nissan would win the 1986 Australian Manufacturers' Championship from BMW. Fury finished off 1986 by finishing second to the V8 Holden Commodore of Allan Grice in the Group A support race for the Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide.
Fury was joined in 1987 Australian Touring Car Championship by Glenn Seton. While Fury had a frustrating first half of the championship, Seton would battle it out with the BMW M3 of Richards for the title. The series came down to the last race at Sydney's Oran Park Raceway where Richards used the nimble M3 to defeat Seton and win his second ATCC in three years. With Fury finishing third in the championship, this saw Nissan sharing victory with BMW in the 1987 Australian Manufacturers' Championship. The final competitive race for the Peter Jackson Nissan DR30s came in the Group A support race for the 1987 Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide where Fury again finished second behind the Ford Sierra RS500 of Dick Johnson.
The 340 bhp (254 kW; 345 PS) DR30 continued to be used by privateer racers in Australian touring car racing until 1989.
Models: (Japan)
- 1800TI – 1.8 L Z18S SOHC I4, 105 PS (77 kW), later models 1.8 L CA18E SOHC I4, 115 PS (85 kW)
- 2000TI – 2.0 L CA20E SOHC I4
- 2000TI – 2.0 L Z20E SOHC I4
- 2000GT and Passage – 2.0 L L20E SOHC I6
- 2000GT Turbo, Passage and Paul Newman Version – 2.0 L L20ET turbo I6, 140 PS (103 kW, 206 N m)
- RS – 2.0 L FJ20E DOHC I4, 150 PS (110 kW, 181 N m)
- RS-X and RS-X Turbo C – 2.0 L FJ20ET DOHC turbo I4, 190 to 205 PS (140 to 151 kW, 225 to 245 N m)
- 200D GT – 2.0 L LD20 SOHC I4 Diesel
- 280D GT – 2.8 L LD28 SOHC I6 Diesel
R31
| R31 | |
|---|---|
|
R31 Nissan Skyline Coupe 2000 GTS-R |
|
| Overview | |
| Also called | 7th SKYLINE(1985–1987) Nissan Pintara (Australian 4-cylinder models). |
| Production | 1985–1989 309,716 units sold |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan Clayton, Australia |
| Designer | Shinichiro Sakurai Naganori Ito |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 4-door hardtop 2-door coupe 5-door station wagon |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Leopard Nissan Pintara |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.8 L CA18I I4 2.0 L CA20E I4 2.0 L RB20E I6 2.0 L RB20ET I6 Turbocharged 2.0 L RB20DE I6 2.0 L RB20DET I6 Turbochrged 2.0 L RB20DET-R I6 Turbocharged 3.0 L RB30E I6 2.8 L Diesel RD28 I6 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,650 mm (183.1 in) |
| Width | 1,690 mm (66.5 in) |
| Height | 1,385 mm (54.5 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,200 kg (2,600 lb) |
The R31 Skyline of 1986 was a natural evolution on the R30 shape, and also this one was loosely based on the Laurel platform (C32). The design was slightly larger and squarer than previous Skylines. It was available as a Sedan, Hardtop sedan, Coupe and station wagon. Affectionately known as the "Seventhsu" or simply "7th Sukairain" by owners, due to it being the 7th-generation Skyline.
The R31 Skyline introduced many new technologies and features. The HR31 was the first Skyline to be equipped with the new RB-series of engines. The HR31 RB engines are often referred to as "Red Top" engines because of the red cam covers. There were three variants. The earliest series of DOHC, 24 valve, RB engines used the NICS (Nissan Induction Control System) injection system with 12 very small intake runners, and a butterfly system to divide the intake ports in half for better low RPM performance. Later versions used ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) engine management, discarded the twelve tiny runners for six much larger ones (though the cylinder heads still retained twelve individual intake ports separated by casting), and received a slightly larger turbocharger. Nissan's RD28, a 2.8 straight-6 engine, featured for a diesel option. Another technological first for the R31 was the introduction of Nissan's proprietary 4-wheel steering system, dubbed HICAS (High Capacity Active Steering). The R31 series were also the only models in the Skyline family to feature a 4-door hardtopvariation. These models were generally badged as the Passage GT.
The R31 Skyline was also produced in Australia, with a 3.0 L motor (RB30E) available in sedan or wagon form, as well as a four-cylinder version called the Nissan Pintara. The wagon had the same front style as the coupe and sedan—the only difference being that it lacked the four round brake lights that had been a consistent element of Skyline design (except for the R31 series one/two which had rectangular taillights with a solid bar through the centre which was also shared by the Pintara). These cars were manufactured in Australia due to the heavy import laws which made it expensive to bring cars into Australia.
29,305 R31 Skylines were also manufactured and sold in South Africa in 4-door sedan form between 1987 and 1992. These were the last Skylines seen in South Africa. Power came from either the RB30E 3.0 straight-6 motor, RB20E 2.0 straight-6 motor or the CA20S 4-cylinder powerplant.
GTS-R
The ultimate version of the R31 was the RB20DET-R powered HR31 GTS-R Coupe of which 800 units were built to allow homologation for Group A Touring Car racing. Introduced in late 1987, it had a reworked version of the normal RB20DET with a much larger turbocharger on a tubular steel exhaust manifold, as well as a much larger front-mounted intercooler boosting power to a factory claimed 210 ps (154 kW), with racing versions making over 430 hp (321 kW) in Group A trim.
Jim Richards and Mark Skaife drove a Gibson Motor Sport prepared Skyline GTS-R to win the 1989 Sandown 500in Australia. Richards also used the GTS-R in 6 of the 8 races to win the 1990 Australian Touring Car Championship (he used the R32 GT-R in the final two rounds of the series). It was the first Australian Touring Car Championship victory for a Nissan driver after George Fury placed second in 1983 and 1986 and Glenn Setongained second position in 1987.
Models
Japanese market:
- 1800 C, 1800 Excel and 1800 Passage – 1.8 L CA18S SOHC I4, 90 hp (66 kW)
- GT Excel D, GT Passage D – 2.8 L Diesel RD28 SOHC I6, 92 hp (68 kW, 173 N m)
- GT Excel, GT Passage – 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 128 hp (96 kW)
- GT Excel Twin Cam 24V, GT Passage Twin Cam 24V – 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (114 kW)
- GT Passage Turbo – 2.0 L RB20ET SOHC turbo I6, 167 hp (125 kW, 206 N m)
- GT Passage Twin Cam 24V Turbo – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 180 hp (133 kW, 225 N m)
- GTS – 2.0 L RB20DE DOHC I6, 155 hp (114 kW)
- GTS Turbo – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC I6, 180 hp (133 kW, 225 N m)
- GTS-X – 2.0 L RB20DET DOHC turbo I6, 190 hp (141 kW, 240 N m)
- GTS-R – 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (154 kW, 245 N m)
- GTS Autech – 2.0 L RB20DET-R DOHC turbo I6, 210 hp (154 kW, 245 N m)
Australian market:
- Pintara GLi, Executive, GX, & GXE – 2.0 L CA20E I4, 102 hp (78 kW, 160 N m)
- GX, Executive, GXE, Silhouette, Ti – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 157 hp (117 kW, 252 N m)
- Silhouette GTS1 – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 176 hp (130 kW, 255 N m)
- Silhouette GTS2 – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 190 hp (140 kW, 270 N m)
South African market:
- 2.0GL, 2.0GLE – 2.0 L CA20S I4, 106 hp (78 kW, 163 N m)
- 2.0SGLi – 2.0 L RB20E SOHC I6, 115 hp (85 kW, 174 N m)
- 3.0SGLi – 3.0 L RB30E SOHC I6, 171 hp (126 kW, 260 N m)
R32
| R32 | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Also called | SKYLINE, BNR32 (1989–1991) |
| Production | 1988–1994 296,087 units sold GT-Rs Standard:40390 Nismo:560 V-Spec:1453 V-SpecII:1303 N1:228 Total:43934 |
| Assembly | Musashimurayama, Japan |
| Designer | Naganori Ito (1987) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / all-wheel drive |
| Related | Nissan Laurel Nissan Cefiro |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.8 L CA18i I4 (GXi) 2.0 L RB20E I6 (GTE) 2.0 L RB20DE I6 (GTS) 2.5 L RB25DE I6 (GTS-25) 2.6 L RB26DE I6 (Autech GTS-4) 2.0 L RB20DET I6 Turbocharged(GTS-t, Type M, GTS-4) 2.6 L RB26DETT I6 Twin Turbocharged (GT-R) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 mm (103.0 in) |
| Length | 4,580 mm (180.3 in) (sedan) |
| Width | 1,695 mm (66.7 in) |
| Height | 1,340 mm (52.8 in) (sedan) |
| Curb weight | 1,280 kg (2,821.9 lb) (Type-M) 1,430 kg (3,152.6 lb) (GT-R) |
The R32 Skyline debuted in May 1989. It was available as either a 2-door coupe or 4-door hardtop sedan, all other bodystyles were dropped. The R32 featured several versions of the RB-series straight-6 engines, which had improved heads (the twelve port inlet was gone) and used the ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) injection system. Also available was an 1,800 cc 4-cylinder GXi model. Most models had HICAS four-wheel steering, with the rear wheels being hydraulically linked to the front steering. The 2.5-litre GTS-25 became one of the first Japanese production cars to feature a 5-speed automatic transmission. The GTS-t came in standard and Type M configurations, with the Type M having larger five-stud 16-inch wheels, four piston front callipers and twin piston rears plus other minor differences. ABS was optional (except for the GT-R and GTS-4), mechanical LSD was standard on the GTR and viscous LSD was standard on all turbo models and optional on all but the GXi. Nissan also produced 100 Australian models of the R32. In addition, there was a 4WD version of the GTS-t Type M, called the GTS-4.
The station wagon bodystyle was discontinued, and replaced by the smaller, front-wheel drive Nissan Avenir (Primera).
Models:
- GXi Coupe and Sedan – 1.8 L CA18i I4, 91 PS (67 kW; 90 hp)
- GTE Coupe and Sedan – 2.0 L RB20E I6, 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp), 152 N m
- GTS Type-X, S, J – 2.0 L RB20DE I6 155 PS (114 kW; 153 hp), 154 N m
- GTS-25 Type-X, S, XG – 2.5 L RB25DE I6, 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp), 231 N m
- GTS-t, Type-M – 2.0 L RB20DET turbo I6, 215 PS (158 kW; 212 hp), 265 N m
- GTS-4 – 2.0 L RB20DET turbo I6, 215 PS (158 kW; 212 hp), 265 N m 4WD
- Autech GTS-4 – 2.6 L RB26DE I6, 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp), Autech Version (auto only) 4WD - only 188 made
- GT-R – 2.6 L RB26DETT twin-turbo I6, 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp), 368 N m 4WD; also NISMO, N1, V-Spec, and V-Spec II variants.
- NISMO S-Tune
GT-R
The R32 GT-R was first produced in 1988 including prototype cars. The first six Nismos were built in 1989. The other 554 NISMO GT-Rs were all built in 1990 and were
