GT-R

Make
Nissan
Segment
Coupe

There are few two-decade-old cars out there that stir up as much attention as this one. The Fast and Furious franchise certainly had something to do with it, but the car itself is utterly brilliant. It deserves every bit of the praise bestowed upon it. We're talking about the R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, of course. We've covered the history of the Skyline GT-R in the past and now that the 25-year import ban has been lifted on the R32 (the R33's ban ends very soon), the model's popularity has never been higher.

But today's focus is on the R34, which, technically speaking, is still illegal to import and drive in the US. Technically. Those who have a certain will power to overcome governmental restrictions will find a way to get what they want. The R34 launched in 1999 as a successor to the R33. Shorter than its predecessor due to customer complaints the R33 was too bulky, the R34 was also more powerful, had a stiffer and more aerodynamic body, and more high-tech. It was also more fun to drive.

One of the GT-R's signature traits, the four-wheel steering system, also returned improved. For example, it features a series of sensors and two centrally controlled wet multi-plate clutches to optimize torque split between the front and rear axles. Understeer is thus eliminated and optimum traction and stability under acceleration, braking and cornering are possible.

We also mentioned more high-tech and here's why: a 5.8-inch LCD multifunction display located in the center of the dashboard. While display systems like this are standard in the basic of basic transportation today, back in 1999 this was impressive stuff reserved only for exotics and luxury vehicles. Nissan has always been at the forefront of new technologies and the R34 GT-R presented the perfect opportunity to use this system. Instead of offering GPS and music streaming (the latter hadn't even been invented yet), this LCD display provided drivers vital vehicle information such as engine stats like turbocharger pressure and oil and water temp.

V Spec models, like the one you're looking at, had intake and exhaust gas temperatures as well. For an additional cost, buyers could tack on Nismo multi-function displays showing lap times and G-Force meter. Under the hood lies an updated 2.6-liter inline-six producing 276 hp at 6,800 rpm. Although it's the same engine from the R33, it was given better power delivery and more torque. Power is fed to all four wheels through a six-speed close ratio Getrag transmission. Again, considering the car is 20 years old, this tech is still impressive.

And this brings us to this lovely thing, a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R V Spec, up for sale on Craigslist Los Angeles. Somehow, it made it to the US and has a Florida registration. Don't ask questions you don't want answers to. V Spec models, compared to the "standard" R34 GT-R, were equipped with a firmer suspension and lower ground clearance, and a rear carbon fiber air diffuser. This one has a total of 52,000 miles and is claimed to be in overall excellent condition. The seller says the engine has no modifications. A few added extras include a stainless exhaust system and a Recaro MCR driver's seat. The 18-inch LMGT4 wheels pictured here are not included in the sale, unfortunately. The price? $79,999. If you're not serious about buying it, the seller kindly asks not to waste their time with useless questions. We totally understand why.