Nissan Skyline GT-R Generations (R32–R34) — Buyer's Guide
The Nissan Skyline GT-R is the definitive JDM icon, and Japan’s auctions are where the best examples surface. Which one you can import depends mostly on age.
The generations
| Generation | Years | Engine |
|---|---|---|
| R32 GT-R | 1989–1994 | RB26DETT 2.6L twin-turbo |
| R33 GT-R | 1995–1998 | RB26DETT (revised) |
| R34 GT-R | 1999–2002 | RB26DETT (the most sought-after) |
All use the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo straight-six and ATTESA all-wheel drive.
Eligibility by market
- USA (25-year rule): R32, R33 and the 1999–2001 R34 cars are eligible now; later R34s become eligible month by month through 2027. Check the month of manufacture — see import to the USA.
- Canada (15-year rule): R32, R33, and R34 are all eligible — see import to Canada.
- UK / Ireland / no-age-limit markets: any generation can be imported.
What to check
- Genuine, unmodified cars command a strong premium — verify the VIN and history.
- On the auction sheet, look for R/RA grades (repaired accident history) and heavy W (repair) marks; many GT-Rs have been tuned or repaired.
- Rust on older R32s from snow regions — check the underbody notes.
Prices are rising fast, especially for the R34. We translate the full sheet and can add an independent inspection — register free to bid on GT-Rs at the source.