Skyline Week 2018: The R As Seen on TV
All hail the mighty BNR34.
The BNR34 Skyline GT-R is considered to be most popular thanks to a few flicks on the big screen and that Japanese video game with over 50+ versions of the Nissan Skyline. Today, as the cult continues to grow with countless GT-Rs being bitten by the mod bug, subtle examples like the R34 we have here catches the eye of the purist car enthusiast even more.
The R34 was an instant phenomenon for its overall design and feel. Shorter than the R33, the third generation “R Skyline” inherits the RB26DETT found in its predecessors. Today, almost 20 years after its original release, the R34 is regarded as one of - if not the best - Japanese cars from the 90s.
This particular example pays tribute to legendary tuner “Mine’s” through a replica of their signature livery. Owned by Emmanuel Santos, this R34 is a visual masterpiece to Skyline GT-R fans thanks to its iconic look and its tried and tested set of Rays TE37s.
Locally modified and maintained by DMF Drift for the owner to enjoy, the car also inherits a few rare goodies from Japan. Chief among which is the ultimate Nismo Omori Titanium Strut Tower Bar – a part that costs an arm and a leg, mind you.
A set of Project MU rotors compliments the OEM Brembo calipers to purposely stop the Haltech-tuned RB26DETT which produces around 320whp – small numbers, but this 34 was tuned for Manila street use. Reliability first, power comes second.
The specification list, which I personally believe to be carefully and “correctly” curated, is topped off with a Nismo gauge cluster plus a pair of Bride bucket seats.
Thanks to a 25-year vehicle production law, the R32 Skylines are now starting to be imported into America. This of course means the whole Skyline GT-R market will soon reach absurd prices - with the R34 as the icing on top of that whole cake. This means the R34 will only become an even rarer sighting on our streets, somewhat fitting for the car that may well be the crown prince of JDM, no?
Words by Kevin Carlos
Photos by Jaime Echavez, Franz Gaw, Jose Altoveros
Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Spec Sheet
Engine:
- RB26DETT
- Haltech Standalone ECU
- Steel Braided Breather Hoses
Drivetrain:
- Ogura Twin Plate Clutch
Suspension/Brakes:
- Nismo Omori Titanium Strut Tower Bar
- D2 coilovers
- Brembo Brake Calipers
- Project Mu Brake Rotors
Exterior:
- Volk Rays TE37
Interior:
- Nismo Gauge
- Nismo Shift Knob
- Bride Bucket Seats
- Takata Harness