GTR R32 Skyline

[sentradude]

So it has been on my mind for quite some time now and I'm wondering what everyone else's thinking is. Would you give up your current "baby", whether its your 240SX, your EVO, Subbie or whatever else floats your boat, for an R32? Why and why not?

[XMcEvilson]

I wouldn't. I think Skylines are cool, however I'm not a fan of driving RHD.

[BossHogg]

Really depends on what you are looking for in a car. But, yes. If you like back roads, go drive one. Atessa is one awesome beast. It's not a matter if you can out drive the car....its if you have the balls to take it their. It feels crazy and awesome. You could take a stock power GTR and focus on handling/cooling/braking/clutch/wheels/tires and have a really fun car. Raise stock boost to 12 psi and you will be over 300 whp. 7k rpm launch is awesome. Slight chirp of the tires and never let off the gas. No pedaling needed. Just shift. Driving feel is very modern. Power folding mirrors, digital climate control, gauges in console, can never lock your keys in your car etc. Car talks Japanese to you lol. It has everything you need in a sporty car....and the feel. I am 100% satisfied with my GTR. Once I get my clutch in I will probably throw it on a dyno to see where I'm at. I'm over boosting to 14 lbs since the bigger exhaust, so that's out side of recommended "safe zone" of stock ceramic turbine wheels. But its amazing at what really is not needed to make a fast car with the stock components. Stock intercooler is good for 600. Stock airbox can take 5-600. Stock intercooler pipes are fine. Stock turbo inlets need a splitter to handle more than you need, basically reduces turbo shuffle. Really the only thing that sucks out of the box is the turbos, just because of the gamble of ceramic turbines. Some blow, some dont. They spool up pretty quick though. A simple front pipe back exhaust system would be recommended also. It definitely is noticeable power gain and also livens the car up when you get on it. Sound is amazing. Can hear better turbo spoolage also. Not to mention cool backfires and shooting flames lol. Always a good time.

But with any old car, expect to do basic maintenance. Just buy one that is in somewhat good condition. Or that has some kind of maintenance records. CV boots for sure should be on the list. I've blown 3. Once one goes, they all will quickly follow.

Another positive is the car looks very good stock. All you need is coils and proper offset wheels/tire combo. Then your car is better looking than 99% of other cars on the road. You don't need any kit or anything.

Be prepared for endless amounts of attention. People following you. People taking pictures/video. People asking the dumbest god damn questions in the world. Be prepared for all of it. Is that a skyline? Is that a GTR? Does it have an RB? Wow, I didn't know they made these RHD......like are you fucking dumb?

Its easy to see how the r32 made the impact it did when it debuted. It's a pretty sweet ride man. Everyone I've let drive is like holy shit. This thing feels like you just bought it lol. I would say mine is very very mildly built.

The prices have seriously jumped since I got mine though. I mean I paid under 20k for mine which is out of the ordinary clean and 49k miles and relatively stock. My car today would probably be around 25-30k range.

[lunchmeat]

I'm weird, so I'd get rid of the 240 for a r33 gtst sedan. Most around here would just think it's a 90s maxima.

[kashira kureijii]

nah fam, I'd trade a 240 for a A31 cefiro, pulsar gtir/VZR, or march super-turbo though, may'be even a cedric, but I don't really like the engines that came in cedrics, so I dunno

[RHD*bro]

I've driven a r32 gts its a cool car .. I wouldn't trade my pulsar for one though I already get enough attention being my car is RHD already

[ixfxi]

Its hard enough owning 1 car that is 25+ years old, I own multiple 25+ year old cars. A lot of time, money, resources and energy goes into sourcing spare parts and this only gets worse. I think at some point, lack of parts will make me get rid of some of my cars - but time will tell.

Take the above and multiple it over a few times, as finding parts for an R32 is even more difficult. Sure, some parts cross-over - but other parts do not. And if you do find them, be prepared to pay and wait for them to arrive.

I personally would never like to own certain cars. New GTR, old GTR, its all the same: a big headache when it comes to parts and maintenance. I wouldnt want to own an NSX for the very same reason, when they do have problems its costly. Not saying that these are bad cars, they are awesome and I love these cars - all I am saying is that proper upkeep is difficult. Not impossible, just difficult.

But besides all that, I would never want to own a RHD vehicle. Not in this country.

[Yuri]

Just to let you know, having seen a few imported JDM cars, they tend to be pretty rusty.

[BossHogg]

it is not hard to find parts for r32. Literally everything I get is from Nissan japan. Just make sure you get the right part number. Don't go to websites, they are over priced. RHD is fine lol. I don't even get how that is an argument. I like it better to be honest lol. You are literally, just sitting on the other side. Nothing changes lol.

[lunchmeat]

I've got 2 50 yr old cars, and while they both have great aftermarket support, owning them is getting well....old. One of which I'm wanting to get rid of since it needs more work than I'm willing to deal with. Hell, my 240 is pushing 20 and finding some parts for it is a pain in the ass.
Do I want a skyline? Yea. Will I ever own one? Not sure.

[dizzariot]

Funny this is posted here.

I'm about to be stationed in Japan and I can't even decide if I want an older car. I've been driving '93 S13s (a white SR'd one that I sold and then bought a grey, KA'd one) for over two years now and my other car is a 2005 Forester. You get to a point where you want to have at least one 'new' car in your stable. At least that's where I'm at. I had a few S13s and an S14 before I left for bootcamp. I bought an FRS while I was in training and really enjoyed the car...until I got back to CA. Community sucks dick (different/same reasons as Zilvia) but I digress...

My point is I've been into 240SXs for quite some time now and I had a taste of a 'new' car for a couple of years. I was stoked to get another S13 but the lack of amenities will start to wear on you...especially if you want a car that's as old as a GTR.

GTRs in Japan are reaching US prices and the NSX is still $30L - $40K. I can't snag anything newer than '94 or I can't bring it back. I don't want to get an S15 and love it only to turn around and sell it when I go.

I talked to Sean Morris at Nissan Jam and he loves R32s. Even with the R33 coming over in a few years he seems like an R32-guy through-and-through. Talk to him and see if he can make you a believer. The R32 wasn't on my radar until I talked to him but even now I'm having a hard time justifying $18K+ for a car that's so old.

To summarize: everything I've been through since selling the FRS has kind of burned me out. I can't fathom spending $20k on a GTR. If you've never looked at one in person or sat in one you might want to do more research before you start the hunt.

[BossHogg]

Just to let you know, having seen a few imported JDM cars, they tend to be pretty rusty.

they need to find better cars to buy then lol.

[hobbs]

I think I'm one of the few that is actually looking to move from a R32 GTR to get back into a LHD S13.

[simmode1]

Always felt the R32 was overhyped. Definitely do not ever want the hassle of owning an old as fuck RHD car in a LHD country. For the same price, I'd much rather have a 335xi coupe.

[tricky_ab]

Its hard enough owning 1 car that is 25+ years old, I own multiple 25+ year old cars. A lot of time, money, resources and energy goes into sourcing spare parts and this only gets worse. I think at some point, lack of parts will make me get rid of some of my cars - but time will tell.

Take the above and multiple it over a few times, as finding parts for an R32 is even more difficult. Sure, some parts cross-over - but other parts do not. And if you do find them, be prepared to pay and wait for them to arrive.


Yeah, owning a car that was never sold in NA is a great time till you need to source something. Honestly, it depends on how badly you want it, and how long you plan to keep it.

Owning two imports myself, I can say that it's trying at times, but to me it's worth it.

[anti tyler]

As I've noticed in my area, I've seen 2 Evo 8 owners switch to jdm R32's. And I've seen a few others purchase r32's without having a bias to the chassis, just from the popularity.


Personally I favor the r34 over all. But lord knows they're gonna cost a shit ton when they become of age

[ixfxi]

it is not hard to find parts for r32. Literally everything I get is from Nissan japan. Just make sure you get the right part number. Don't go to websites, they are over priced. RHD is fine lol. I don't even get how that is an argument. I like it better to be honest lol. You are literally, just sitting on the other side. Nothing changes lol.

Seating position *is* a big deal, I dont know how it isnt. All my cars are LHD, and I am predisposed to certain driving habits and seeing things from the proper side of the car given the side of the road we drive on. Now you want to switch it and make it seem like its a non-issue. There are a lot of research papers for the government that go into great detail about this. I dont claim to be an expert so I am not going to say that I know the specifics, I just know they exist. Add that on top of other issues like the headlights which shine in the wrong direction and you just have a car with a lot of safety issues. IMO, this is going to bite owners in the ass sooner or later.

Again, its not as if I dont like the car - the R32 is one of my favorite 90s-era sportscars, and its my favorite when it comes to the GTR. But there is just too much wrong with it to be used safely here in the US. Again, just my opinion. As for you, you really need to remember that as an owner - you've got a biased opinion.

[Sileighty_85]

Finding a copy of Nissan's "FAST" program helps out a ton.

I've been able to find tons interchangeable parts from US cars to cut down on the mark up prices and shipping of parts from Japan. (For my other 3 cars)

Biggest issue I think will be interior, exterior parts as well as electronics especially glass. That's the one big thing im worried about. I will be picking some up over here but scared it wont make the journey back home in one piece.


Also ATTESA parts since none of the other Nissan in the US had that system until the R35 which is totally different now..


But Im stocking up on all these parts (New if possible) to hopefully hold me over for a long time.

[Malik]

learning to shift with my left hand would be the biggest hassle.

[DrftKingIII]

R32 GTR's are great cars, but the now-normal $30,000.00 price tag is hefty for a 25 year old Nissan.

I currently own a decent S-Chassis, and I love driving it, but the modern amenities and comfort of my M35 calls every morning.

[Ramonesfreak2010]

I just purchased a 180sx and i LOVE driving on the right side. Feels so natural. Probably because I'm better with the left hand. I did want a GTR, but with these prices I had to pass.

[5280VertDET]

Always felt the R32 was overhyped. Definitely do not ever want the hassle of owning an old as fuck RHD car in a LHD country. For the same price, I'd much rather have a 335xi coupe.

Fixed that for you...


Also, Im all about the GTi-R, but yea, having never driven a RHD car in a LHD country makes me have second thoughts on dropping $8-15K on a 25 year old car (not even mention parts).

[ILoveJDM]

I just purchased a 180sx and i LOVE driving on the right side. Feels so natural. Probably because I'm better with the left hand. I did want a GTR, but with these prices I had to pass.

The right hemisphere of our brain controls the left side body functions, and vice versa.

While driving LHD, you clutch with your left foot and shift with your right hand, using both sides of the brain. while driving RHD, your right side of your brain controls the clutch and shifting. Thats why it "feels" more natural.

I might be talking out of my ass but,

SCIENCE.

source: Boredom.

[LoneStarSilvia]

Would never get rid of my any of my current vehicles for a 32.

I'm finally leaving Japan after being here for 5+ years, and for you guys in America my advice would be to not buy a 32 GT-R UNLESS you've got plenty of money to burn.

They are hilariously unreliable (yes, yes, not ALL of them are turds), which catches out a lot of American's fresh off the boat wide eyed because they've seen the first Skyline (even it's like a rusty NA R33).

The price mark ups have been banana's, and the market for a truly clean R32 has been all but sucked dry by import companies who are going to ask you to waste, I mean spend upwards of $25K! That shit is crazy compared to their pricing before the JDM tyte import tax hit. The Japanese know this too and have hiked their prices up before importers can grab them.

Now I will admit, my personal opinion about them are skewed a bit, I'm just not a fan because of how blindly people lust after them. The uninformed and inexperienced think they're the hottest shit on the block, even non-car people know what a Skyline is. Don't get me wrong, they have big potential, but unless you're in Japan and know your way around, expect to constantly bleed money into it after that fat initial purchase. Out of all the 32 GT-R owners I know and/or know of, which is a lot (see fanboyism comment above), I would say 8/10 of them have had their GT-R hard broke at one time or another and are constantly wrenching on them. My rotaries have had less problems than my co-worker's 32.

Too be fair though, a lot of those guys have to daily drive their GT-R's, so I would assume the breakdown rate would be much, much lower.

It's completely up to whoever is willing to break bread ofcourse, but in my opinion, but there is much better spends of near $30K and you can still mash 32's on a track day. You just won't have that JDM mad tyte super street cred.

Hell, with all these other vehicles nearing their 25 year mark, I would look at something else before they all get their 25 year old JDM import tax raised too!

[LoneStarSilvia]

As I've noticed in my area, I've seen 2 Evo 8 owners switch to jdm R32's. And I've seen a few others purchase r32's without having a bias to the chassis, just from the popularity.


Personally I favor the r34 over all. But lord knows they're gonna cost a shit ton when they become of age

And this is what kills me about the car. The 8 is arguably a much better performer, but people see that "SKYLINE" on the ass and just lose their damn common sense.

But meh, their money.

Too true on the 34's, even now you'll be hard pressed to find one under $40K. They are going to be $60K-$100K cars ranging on condition I would bet.

[LoneStarSilvia]

Funny this is posted here.

I'm about to be stationed in Japan and I can't even decide if I want an older car.


If I could break you off a piece of advice as a military guy exiting Japan, try out cars you either would never consider owning in America because of price, or something they never made in America.

Worry about importing something when you're about a year out from leaving.

I've had 8 cars since I've lived in Japan and the prices I got them for are simply criminal compared to America.

1st was an Evo III for $5500.
2nd was a '99 FD for $7000.
3rd was an Altezza I traded the Evo III for (there's a story behind it).
4th was R34 GT-T for $4500.
5th was a 1st gen Forester for $1800
6th was a super lower mileage AP1 S2000 for $8500.
7th was my 20B Cosmo for $10,500
8th was a turbo/auto MKIV Supra for $7500.


See my point? There are so many cool cars in Japan, and very reasonably priced. I consider the FD and Supra cars I'll never purchase in America just because of the HUGE price difference, but I'm damn glad I had the opportunity to own them when I could.

[driftsucky]

I would never give up my "baby" for a 20+ year old Nissan sports coupe that was never sold in the country that I live in. That said, I love the R32. It's my favorite Skyline of all the Skylines (R35 not included). I'll never own one though. I've driven a few different iterations of Skyline and the price/value ratio just isn't there for me...not the GTR anyway. Now, an R32 GTS-T, I'd snag one of those. RWD, under 10k with under 70k miles, just as fun if not more fun than GTR? Yes please.

[greddy2die]

Anyone consider like an GTS-T as a daily? I know they don't have that instant wow factor as a BNR32 but an HCR32 can be had for a lot less. Yeah, you don't get an RB26 but you still have a turbocharged inline 6 and can still make the car look really nice especially for all the money you'd save getting that rather than a GT-R.

[Ramonesfreak2010]

I would never give up my "baby" for a 20+ year old Nissan sports coupe that was never sold in the country that I live in. That said, I love the R32. It's my favorite Skyline of all the Skylines (R35 not included). I'll never own one though. I've driven a few different iterations of Skyline and the price/value ratio just isn't there for me...not the GTR anyway. Now, an R32 GTS-T, I'd snag one of those. RWD, under 10k with under 70k miles, just as fun if not more fun than GTR? Yes please.

They're starting to reach $15k. Not worth it IMO just because its practically the same thing as a s-chasis but bigger.

[driftsucky]

They're starting to reach $15k. Not worth it IMO just because its practically the same thing as a s-chasis but bigger.

I've seen a literal shitton under 10k. My co-worker and I just found another for 89hunjo with 61 clicks on the odo. At 15k, I'm out. But, I'm more comfortable paying 9k for that than 9k for an S-chassis...sans S14 maybe

[tuzzio]

I wouldn't trade my 240 for a skyline because rb's suck for oiling issues, and i'd still have to buy all the suspension parts to make the car fun.

[STR8E180]

i sold my S chassis and bought a GTR...never looked back, best thing i ever did

[10psitx]

As an owner of 4 RHD cars one being GTR R32 and the same amount of LHD vehicles i would venture to add some thoughts/observations...(personal)

It would take about 2 to 3 weeks of actual driving a RHD car stateside to adjust and feel natural both my sons drive the Laurel just fine and i honestly can't tell the difference anymore.

Parts wise, not a big deal...as Bosshogg mentioned, a little effort, get the part numbers and order through your local Nissan dealership (i import parts and cars so its easy for me)

Giving up your "baby" for a GTR?... i would pose this....if you have to ask then don't do it. Here's why...a GTR in its pure OEM configuration is an absolute drivers car, not a show piece, not for hard parking, not for showing off your JDM parts collection, not for internet points...the enjoyment of having one is the fact that you can push it, you can thoroughly enjoy the excitement of learning the car and finding your limits.
Now your can make an argument that this is possible with any car....and that's true but with most cars you will need to build it to match the OEM performance level of a GTR but still no ATTESA...evo's and sti's? some of the few that might be comparable. Therein lies a personal part...the feel of the GTR compared to the other car cars with similar features?...in my personal opinion after doing such a comparison...the GTR feels like a much more solid and mature car than either one, My buddy drove the GTR and was amazed at the feel, response and features of the car, This is coming from a that works on super cars for a living...i trust that he knows a few things about cars in general.

25 year old car syndrome....get over it! ....it is a 25 year old car if you don't want the hassles of, or expense of owing an old car...don't buy one.... but certainly don't make it an excuse. All cars need maintenance, all cars break, it's a fact of life. Some are more expensive than others...

For me...i don't care about drifting, mega steering angle, slammed stance status, bass boat quality paint jobs, wing size or fancy body kits etc...i just simply enjoy driving my cars to work, TO and ON a race track, or on a cruise with my buddies. The GTR does all those things and i do have to repair/fix stuff when they break-leak or stop functioning and i also do it with the other cars as well.


For a car person, the choice to give up your baby to purchase another car,whatever it might be, should always be about what better features the car brings to table vs the current car, your ability to maintain the car so that those features are kept and what your are willing to accept as far as owning the car(maintenance upkeep etc). A GTR is a drivers car so its merits shine as such..you get satisfaction from driving it, plain and simple. If that's not enough, then that's your answer...keep your current baby and enjoy it!

[STR8E180]

but you still have a turbocharged inline 6

can't compare the 2

one is a twin turbo 2.6L and the other is a single turbo 2.0L

the RB20 isn't famous for its torque because its got none

[fatduece]

^lmao. Honestly if you're getting a gts you might as well swap a sr20. It will be far more reliable than a rb. Sell the pos 20/25 to a fanboy. He's going to cry once his oil pump takes a shit. Leave the rb26 for the gtrs

I think the worst part about buying a 25 year old car for 25-30k is knowing you'll be into it around 40-50k by the time you get the car to the stage you want it at.



OTAcCgsltuA

[sentradude]

You all bring up great points, pros and cons... I guess it boils down to personal preference. I have personally never driven an R32 so it is difficult for me to say if I would like it or not. It is definitely "cool" but I'm not a big fan of the latest enormously inflated price tag. I wonder if the prices will level out or even come down in the near future esp. once the 33's become available. My biggest fear would be to buy something for 25K+ to find out a year or two later that its lost 10K+ because the "Hype" is over.

[Kingtal0n]

Biggest issue I think will be interior, exterior parts as well as electronics especially glass. That's the one big thing im worried about. I will be picking some up over here but scared it wont make the journey back home in one piece.

The glass was always a big issue for wrecked S15 silvias here.
I know someone who used an S14 glass in an S15 chassis; cut the ends off the glass he said. You can't tell once installed.

[fatduece]

You all bring up great points, pros and cons... I guess it boils down to personal preference. I have personally never driven an R32 so it is difficult for me to say if I would like it or not. It is definitely "cool" but I'm not a big fan of the latest enormously inflated price tag. I wonder if the prices will level out or even come down in the near future esp. once the 33's become available. My biggest fear would be to buy something for 25K+ to find out a year or two later that its lost 10K+ because the "Hype" is over. The deflation in price is definitely possible as more rhd vehicles become legal for import. The demand will definitely fall and so should the prices.


I'm pretty sure windshield glass company can make you a copy


http://www.justjapaneseglass.com/nissan-skyline/79-r32-nissan-skyline-windshield-hcr32-bnr32-2-door-bronze.html

http://www.rightdriveparts.com/skyline-gtst-interior-exterior-parts-hcr32/302-windshield-r32-nissan-skyline.html

[Sileighty_85]

I cant help but notice ya'll are making way too big a deal out of the RB's oil systems issues.

These engines have lasted 25 years now. Ya'll make it sounds like they will just up and shit its pants one day without warning.

As long as you're not bouncing off the rev limiter, using launch control every where you go its just fine for DD'n.

Even so it'll still take a shit load of abuse before it fails. I drifted a good bit of RB's in the past pretty much all stock engines with little bolts ons straight beating the shit out of it holding at high RPM's and bouncing off the rev limiter never skipped a beat.


Even still if you wanted to pull the engine, slap in a JUN collar and Reimax gear and its good to go.

[driftsucky]

If you're buying a specialty car, and worrying about what it's going to be worth down the line, then you shouldn't buy the car. I don't think I've ever purchased a car (that I've liked) and cared what it'll be worth when I'm done with it. I've always wanted to hold on to the car way past it's "worth" if you will. If I bought an R32, or anything like that, it would be something I would hold onto until it was physically incapable of carrying on. I think my G35 is the only car I've gotten out of in under a decade of ownership and that was mainly to appease my wife. The fact that I'm over 6ft and the backseats were fairly useless to me, didn't help (my 2 boys couldn't cruise with me). But, in my grand scheme, I coulda made that work lol. But, happy wife, happy life.

[sentradude]

If you're buying a specialty car, and worrying about what it's going to be worth down the line, then you shouldn't buy the car. I don't think I've ever purchased a car (that I've liked) and cared what it'll be worth when I'm done with it. I've always wanted to hold on to the car way past it's "worth" if you will. If I bought an R32, or anything like that, it would be something I would hold onto until it was physically incapable of carrying on. I think my G35 is the only car I've gotten out of in under a decade of ownership and that was mainly to appease my wife. The fact that I'm over 6ft and the backseats were fairly useless to me, didn't help (my 2 boys couldn't cruise with me). But, in my grand scheme, I coulda made that work lol. But, happy wife, happy life.

This is a great point you make, and with my beloved S13 i am not concerned with what the value of the car will be in the future. However, with a car like the R32 it is somewhat of an investment (20K+). I've owned a few very nice cars but I had always made it a point to get out of them before I got less for them than what I originally paid for them (this does not of-course include my S13 as I think I will hold on to it no matter what). I think it could be a love it or hate it relationship and you wont know until you try it.

[ixfxi]

I wouldn't trade my 240 for a skyline because rb's suck for oiling issues, and i'd still have to buy all the suspension parts to make the car fun.

^ clueless

[STR8E180]

He's going to cry once his oil pump takes a shit. Leave the rb26 for the gtrs


even the RB26 has oil pump failures as well
its actually very common across the RB range

that being said they don't really fail often in standard cars but once you start doing some mediations and putting some serious boost into them thats when you see them fail

[supersayianjim]

^ clueless

that's what I said...

[supersayianjim]

I DO plan on buying a gtr in the next 2 years or so. Id rather wait for my dream car the r33 to be legal but who knows I might just pick up a r32 in the mean time.

right now I have a rb25 s13 fully modded sans the engine internals.

I have a sc400 with a 1.5jz swap and a mild worked head with aem v2 and a re-ringed bottom end.

I need the gtr for BALANCE. I have shortly owned a rhd(postal) legacy suby. rhd takes some getting used to, it's not rocket science tho.

[STR8E180]

I DO plan on buying a gtr in the next 2 years or so. Id rather wait for my dream car the r33 to be legal but who knows I might just pick up a r32 in the mean time.


me personally if the R33 is your dream car and thats what you really want i would just hold off and wait for that but thats just me

[greddy2die]

me personally if the R33 is your dream car and thats what you really want i would just hold off and wait for that but thats just me

Exactly, especially if you dont plan getting one for 2 years because in a little over 3 years the R33's will meet the 25 year rule since it goes by build date.

[fatduece]

even the RB26 has oil pump failures as well
its actually very common across the RB range

that being said they don't really fail often in standard cars but once you start doing some mediations and putting some serious boost into them thats when you see them fail
Yes, I am aware of the problem across the RB platform. I just don't think their worth spending money on. At least the 26 has a bigger displacement, comes with itbs, better intake manifold and Intercooler. I herd the head has solid lifters? Not sure if that's true though.

[STR8E180]

Yes, I am aware of the problem across the RB platform. I just don't think their worth spending money on. At least the 26 has a bigger displacement, comes with itbs, better intake manifold and Intercooler. I herd the head has solid lifters? Not sure if that's true though.

yeah the head comes standard solid lifter

the RB20 engine is a piece of junk imo

[driftsucky]

with a car like the R32 it is somewhat of an investment (20K+).

That's all relative. To US, the R32 is an investment. I work in a far more domestic vehicle capacity, and to some of the muscle guys, 20k is barely the price of admission. And that's just a starting point for them. Some of them see things like a new SS or a new Shelby GT350 (cars that sticker at 60+ and retail for higher) as an investment. To these guys, 20k is tune/wheel money lol.

[garagelu]

Funny this is posted here.

I'm about to be stationed in Japan and I can't even decide if I want an older car. I've been driving '93 S13s (a white SR'd one that I sold and then bought a grey, KA'd one) for over two years now and my other car is a 2005 Forester. You get to a point where you want to have at least one 'new' car in your stable. At least that's where I'm at. I had a few S13s and an S14 before I left for bootcamp. I bought an FRS while I was in training and really enjoyed the car...until I got back to CA. Community sucks dick (different/same reasons as Zilvia) but I digress...

My point is I've been into 240SXs for quite some time now and I had a taste of a 'new' car for a couple of years. I was stoked to get another S13 but the lack of amenities will start to wear on you...especially if you want a car that's as old as a GTR.

GTRs in Japan are reaching US prices and the NSX is still $30L - $40K. I can't snag anything newer than '94 or I can't bring it back. I don't want to get an S15 and love it only to turn around and sell it when I go.

I talked to Sean Morris at Nissan Jam and he loves R32s. Even with the R33 coming over in a few years he seems like an R32-guy through-and-through. Talk to him and see if he can make you a believer. The R32 wasn't on my radar until I talked to him but even now I'm having a hard time justifying $18K+ for a car that's so old.

To summarize: everything I've been through since selling the FRS has kind of burned me out. I can't fathom spending $20k on a GTR. If you've never looked at one in person or sat in one you might want to do more research before you start the hunt.

Not saying r32 are bad but of course Sean Morris is going to convince you on a r32. That's how he makes money.

[sentradude]

I guess the biggest factor now is how long these prices will keep rising, how high will they raise and will they stay there, level out or plummet down to 10k range..

[Bnr32gtr]

I had a gray market r32 gtr and I hatted it. Was a hassle driving, bad blind spots cuz u r on the wrong side of the rode. And just like this guy said the oiling system sucks and u have the dang crank collor issue. Is a good bit of cake to fix the flaws with the motor but I must say I do like the torque and they like mods. I'm partly bias to this chassis as well because I traded a mk4 Supra that I just did a tt 6sp swap to get the gtr and it was the worst decision of my life! All cuz I was skyline struck

[iStayBroke]

If I could break you off a piece of advice as a military guy exiting Japan, try out cars you either would never consider owning in America because of price, or something they never made in America.

Worry about importing something when you're about a year out from leaving.

I've had 8 cars since I've lived in Japan and the prices I got them for are simply criminal compared to America.

1st was an Evo III for $5500.
2nd was a '99 FD for $7000.
3rd was an Altezza I traded the Evo III for (there's a story behind it).
4th was R34 GT-T for $4500.
5th was a 1st gen Forester for $1800
6th was a super lower mileage AP1 S2000 for $8500.
7th was my 20B Cosmo for $10,500
8th was a turbo/auto MKIV Supra for $7500.


See my point? There are so many cool cars in Japan, and very reasonably priced. I consider the FD and Supra cars I'll never purchase in America just because of the HUGE price difference, but I'm damn glad I had the opportunity to own them when I could.

I agree with this. Grew up in Japan and remember these kinds of prices for pretty decent cars (add a S14 Ks for $1k to the list), and it makes it hard to justify $20K for another 25 year old car because of blind demand from a market that has no experience with said car.

As far as the RHD stuff, I've been dailying my RHD Z for a while now. Only real difference I feel is your blind spot is on the other side, so you check over your shoulder in the other direction you normally would. Though I will admit I've been moving back and forth between America and Japan most my life and started driving in Japan so RHD feels more natural to me.

[RB25GUY]

I wouldn't trade my 240 for a skyline because rb's suck for oiling issues, and i'd still have to buy all the suspension parts to make the car fun.


not true man RB's with proper maintenance and failure procedures they are very reliable. gonna daily an RB? unless you have a fully built bottom crank collar dont throw more than 400 hp and keep the limiter at a moderate level under 8k for 26's and 20's, 7k for 25's and you will have a blast.. anything past that hp for the street in a light RWD car is not needed..... but R chassis with the extra weight 450 isn't enough.

[simmode1]

*Ahem* Meanwhile, for the same stock vs stock price...
FkKhArm8Ods
lgsUzDCQIuY

[Mr.Doback]

As an owner of 4 RHD cars one being GTR R32 and the same amount of LHD vehicles i would venture to add some thoughts/observations...(personal)

It would take about 2 to 3 weeks of actual driving a RHD car stateside to adjust and feel natural both my sons drive the Laurel just fine and i honestly can't tell the difference anymore.

Parts wise, not a big deal...as Bosshogg mentioned, a little effort, get the part numbers and order through your local Nissan dealership (i import parts and cars so its easy for me)

Giving up your "baby" for a GTR?... i would pose this....if you have to ask then don't do it. Here's why...a GTR in its pure OEM configuration is an absolute drivers car, not a show piece, not for hard parking, not for showing off your JDM parts collection, not for internet points...the enjoyment of having one is the fact that you can push it, you can thoroughly enjoy the excitement of learning the car and finding your limits.
Now your can make an argument that this is possible with any car....and that's true but with most cars you will need to build it to match the OEM performance level of a GTR but still no ATTESA...evo's and sti's? some of the few that might be comparable. Therein lies a personal part...the feel of the GTR compared to the other car cars with similar features?...in my personal opinion after doing such a comparison...the GTR feels like a much more solid and mature car than either one, My buddy drove the GTR and was amazed at the feel, response and features of the car, This is coming from a that works on super cars for a living...i trust that he knows a few things about cars in general.

25 year old car syndrome....get over it! ....it is a 25 year old car if you don't want the hassles of, or expense of owing an old car...don't buy one.... but certainly don't make it an excuse. All cars need maintenance, all cars break, it's a fact of life. Some are more expensive than others...

For me...i don't care about drifting, mega steering angle, slammed stance status, bass boat quality paint jobs, wing size or fancy body kits etc...i just simply enjoy driving my cars to work, TO and ON a race track, or on a cruise with my buddies. The GTR does all those things and i do have to repair/fix stuff when they break-leak or stop functioning and i also do it with the other cars as well.


For a car person, the choice to give up your baby to purchase another car,whatever it might be, should always be about what better features the car brings to table vs the current car, your ability to maintain the car so that those features are kept and what your are willing to accept as far as owning the car(maintenance upkeep etc). A GTR is a drivers car so its merits shine as such..you get satisfaction from driving it, plain and simple. If that's not enough, then that's your answer...keep your current baby and enjoy it!

Top notch explanation. I've bounced around from all sorts of cars from early 90s GTIs to big body sedans to a 1972 911 back to an s14 with sr and now r32 gtr...

If you truly love driving and have the available funds, I wouldn't question the purchase. S chassis cars feel like tin cans compared to the bnr32. I can't compare to hcr32. The car feels planted and extremely stable. As far as driveability, I find it is amazingly easy to drive and rhd is is just a quick learning curve of situating yourself on the opposite side of the car and opposite side of the lane.

I considered taking a bigger plunge and getting a 997s however the 13yo boy in me opted to get something a little different. I don't regret it at all, plus I get to play around in my sisters 997 4s when I feel the need for a change.

The GTR mixed with a good suspension setup and C's shifter really makes it a combination that can't be beat for a daily driver/weekend warrior.

I couldn't find a car that checked all the right boxes in this price range. The GTR is the common man's super car. It's totally in reach for most, stands out like we all enjoy, and most of all, has a superb powerplant and drivetrain to go along with it. Plus...I get to throw all the nostalgic and well-known JDM brand names at it that could ever want.

[sentradude]

I was seriously considering it - until I found that the company I was communicating with is swapping clusters between cars to make them lower mileage. Now, ill just stick to my 240.. at least I know the history behind it.

Moral of the story, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Current price of a clean GTR32 with low miles is minimum $25K+ easily. Anything under $20K listed with low miles etc.. is most likely tampered with. I'm glad I didn't pull the trigger!

[fatduece]

^What company is that?!

[Bnr32gtr]

I owned one for 7 years and hated it's the hole time so happy it's gone so happy! For that kind of $ I'd rather have a 911,mk4 supra, m3, m5.

[Bushido]

http://www.farmofminds.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/IMG_8668.jpg

[dr_]

I owned one for 7 years and hated it's the hole time.

username checks out.

I'm not even going to go into detail:
1. the rbs' oil issue is overblown. every motor has a problem area that will be the first to act up. the rb however is a victim of it's own success. being 2nd to only the 2jz in every "whats da best jdm motor" clickbait ad, every fanboy who has ever googled 2jz vs rb26 has found out that yes, the 2jz is a stronger motor able to be pushed harder. they find search "why rb26 sucks" and of course they see "oil". instant ammunition. so they go on every swag stance facebook group and give rbs flak because they should have an elder-god 2jz. they then hop in their stanced 91 accord and hit taco bell to hard park.
no motor will be 'reliable' banging off a 8k redline, usually modded to hell at that. the 2j is FAR from a stranger to oil issues itself actually.

2. 1988. thats when they started piecing together the 26 platform. the motor is old. as fuck.

3. the r32 anally assaulted Group A

4. the r32 is a timeless car that needs so little to look amazing.

5. the r32 fucked your bitch

6. the r32 is a 25+ y/o Nissan. I feel bad for everyone who fell for the lol gran turismo need4speed 2fast2furious portrayal of the r32, r33 and r34.

[Bnr32gtr]

It was a love hate relation. Love the body lines. Like u said every motor has its problems. Like every one know keep it at 400whp and u should be safe. 400 is just not enough for me with a straight six motor! Back in my high school days my 1.8 Honda was well into the 400hp. To fix the oiling/crank collar issue right cost a good bit. Just something in my mind should not be a issue from the get. When the Engine code stands for race bread. I also regret trading my mk4 Supra for the gtr but at that time Skyline was my dream car I had never seen one in person and I just jumped. in hindsight it was probably the worst decision of my life! I'm not knocking the chassis by any means but for 20-25k there a lot of other cars I would rather have.

[spooled240]

I owned one for 7 years and hated it's the hole time so happy it's gone so happy! For that kind of $ I'd rather have a 911,mk4 supra, m3, m5.

911: expensive, less reliable
Mk4 supra: expensive unless you get the n/a auto (still pretty pricey and not to mention, gay)
M3: expensive and/or unreliable
M5: see above

Own a fd rx7 and youll know the very definition of high maintenance and finicky. You start looking at anything with a piston motor like it's a honda civic lol

[KiLLeR2001]

I wanted an R32 GTR for the last 5 years. My initial goal was to save up / sell my two-tone and use the funds to buy one.... Then the prices started going up and the more they went up the more I got turned off.

Now I've decided to keep the two-tone and buy a brand new car that is about 3x the price of an R32 GTR. Good riddance.

[Bnr32gtr]

The sound of that v10 tho... but rod bearings every 100k made me walk away killer2001 what did u pick up?

[driftsucky]

http://www.farmofminds.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/IMG_8668.jpg
This in GS-T form would make my day.

[Bushido]

When the Engine code stands for race bread.

race bread:
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/bread-f1-car-large_03.jpg

everyone knows that RB stands for "Racing Bersion"

[OBEEWON]

Damn.

And people hungry.