1983 Nissan Skyline GTS-R

The R31, the seventh-generation Skyline, was launched on August 19, 1985. The 6-cylinder twin-cam engine, last used on the C110, was reintroduced with the R31 and together with its breakthrough HICAS 4-wheel steering system and card entry system (both world firsts), this model attracted much attention.

At launch, the R31 was available as either a 4-door sedan or a 4-door hardtop, but in May of the following year a coupe was added to the lineup. On August 21, 1987, the GTS-R – base car for Group A races – was launched as a limited-edition model (800 units). The GTR-S was a pure sports model, equipped with a Garrett high-caliber turbocharger and stainless steel exhaust manifold, increasing engine output from the GTS’s 190PS to 210PS (both net values).

The vehicle shown was a racing car manufactured by NME – Nissan Motorsports Europe, the subsidiary established in England as a European base for Nissan Motor Sports International. It was used by Allan Grice and Win Percy to compete in the 1988 European Touring Car Championship (ETCC).

At the 24-hour Spa-Francorchamps race in Belgium, one of the world’s three top endurance races, Anders Olofsson – a member of the Nissan team for the All Japan Sports Prototype Championship (JSPC) – joined Grice and Percy and the trio came in 6th overall.

In Detail

type	Racing Car
built at	Japan
engine	RB20DET-R Inline-6
position	Front, Longitudinal
power	294 kw / 394.3 bhp @ 7200 rpm
bhp/weight	339.91 bhp per tonne
torque	412 nm / 303.9 ft lbs @ 6000 rpm
body / frame	Unitary Steel Monocoque w/Carbon Fiber Doors & Hood, Roll Cage
front tires	230/660R17
rear tires	230/660R17
front brakes	AP ventilated disc
rear brakes	AP ventilated disc
f suspension	MacPherson Struts
r suspension	Semi-Trailing Arms
curb weight	1160 kg / 2558 lbs
wheelbase	2615 mm / 103.0 in
front track	1460 mm / 57.5 in
rear track	1465 mm / 57.7 in
length	4660 mm / 183.5 in
width	1690 mm / 66.5 in
height	1325 mm / 0.5 in
top speed	~1 kph / -1.0 mph