Highlights

A rare, highly original and low mileage example
Replacement ECU and re-map producing 360 bhp
1 owner in the last 25 years
Just under 18,000 miles from new

The Appeal

Nissan's Skyline is a name very well known around the world with car enthusiasts. The original Skyline was released in 1957, with the first GT-R (Grand Turismo-Racing) model launched in 1964. Since then, the GT-R has proceeded to define history for the Japanese car manufacturer. The cult following for the Skyline GT-R really took off during the 90's and from their R32 iteration upwards.

The R33 variant was released in August of 1993 and would be Nissan's fourth generation of the GT-R. It carried over the same engine from the R32, the legendary RB26 with twin turbos for added power. Nissan made sure to remedy the previous issue of a weak oil pump drive collar for the R33, meaning it could handle higher power outputs without the same issues. The gearbox was also carried over but with stronger syncros.

It's evident that the R33 GT-R offered impressive performance by its achievement to be the first production vehicle to lap the Nürburgring in under 8 minutes. The iconic styling of the R33 has certainly matured well with age and arguably gave the JDM market the face that many of us recognise today. This is thanks to Kozo Watanabe, the very talented designer who also designed the R34. With well under 5,000 series 3 examples produced, good, original examples of the R33 are becoming increasingly rare!

The History and Paperwork

First registered in 14/11/1997 in Osaka, Japan
First registered in the UK 18/03/1998
3 owners from new, 1 in Osaka Japan and 2 in the UK
Speedometer was converted to miles shortly after import, speed limiter was also removed
Radio has been re-programmed for UK radio frequency shortly after import
Currently without MOT but the current owner advises he will provide the car with a 1-year MOT upon sale
Very desirable, custom numberplate included in sale of vehicle
Thorough collection of past MOT's
Less than 1000 miles covered in the last 10 years
Car has been kept garaged when not in use
Selling as current owner no longer uses
Full service history, independent - current owner has carried out servicing such as oil and filters themselves
Replacement ECU fitted with a re-map giving 360 bhp as well as ride height lowered slightly, all by Middlehurst Motorsport
Toad immobiliser fitted and functioning
Nissan Skyline branded indoor car cover included and in good condition
Original Japanese registration document included
Original owner’s manual, service booklet (in Japanese) and spare key present - all in very good condition

The Interior

Interior in excellent condition overall with minimal signs of wear
Desirable mono-form bucket seats for front occupants
Pioneer stereo head unit

By the time the series 3 had launched Nissan had certainly refined the GT-R's interior finish. Special Tricot fabric was used on the seats giving for a grippy yet comfortable feel, all seats on this example remain in excellent condition free from any rips or tears. Furthermore, this example boasts a Pioneer stereo head unit with the radio frequency re-programmed to pick up UK frequencies.

The dashboard plastics and trim all remain in excellent condition too with all features reported to work as expected. Furthermore, the headlining is present, secure and has been kept in excellent condition to. Luxurious GT-R branded floor mats are present throughout and remain in excellent condition, the same can be said for the carpets underneath. The boot is in excellent condition with a space saver spare wheel present underneath the carpet. A desirable Momo steering wheel is fitted, in very good condition with red contrast stitching which gives for a great aesthetic. Finally, the current owner has conveniently fitted a fire safety stick in the passenger footwell.

The Exterior

Original QM1 White paintwork in excellent condition overall
Original 17-inch forged alloys in very good condition
Matching Bridgestone Potenza tyres with good tread

Standing out from the offset, the original white paintwork of this GT-R really helps accentuate the wonderful styling. The adjustable GT-R rear spoiler gives a lovely lift to the silhouette. There is a very small chip to the paint work on the nearside front bumper and some very minor scuffs to the front splitter and rear end, all of which are only noticeable when inspecting closely.

The current owner previously had the splitter repaired for some minor damage and then painted in white to match with the body. Desirable Xenon headlights are fitted, a welcome addition that came with the series 3. Badges, brightwork and glass all remain in very good to excellent condition throughout. A special mention is deserved for the twin exit exhaust tips, both with a wonderful mirror polish. The original, forged alloys all remain in very good condition with only the slightest of scuffs to the nearside alloys.

The Mechanics

Legendary twin turbo RB26DETT engine runs smoothly
Replacement ECU and re-map giving 360 bhp from Middlehurst Motorsport
Desirable Brembo disc brakes on all four corners

Nissan's RB engine series have gained a well-deserved reputation globally. A smooth running inline 6 with the ability to be upgraded endlessly. However, in order to retain reliability, any upgrades should be done considerately and not push the envelope too much when it comes to extra power. This example has been thoughtfully re-mapped to give roughly 90 bhp extra, a perfect amount allowing for extra poke without sacrificing reliability.

Servicing has been carried out by the current owner with the last noted service in 2003 at 8026 miles. The ride height on this example has also been slightly lowered, giving for a gorgeous aesthetic and carried out considerately in order not to ruin the ride. As well as the re-map, the top speed limiter was also removed in 1999, meaning you can really make use of the extra ponies! The engine bay and underside of this example both remain in a very good, used but tidy condition and are free from any untoward after-market modifications.

Summary

Becoming increasingly rare as time moves on, examples of Nissans R33 GT-R are understandably demanding high premiums. Especially examples that have been kept as close to original as possible, just like this wonderful vehicle. Being a series 3, this model received the latest improvements prior to the R34 being released. This GT-R has been lovingly maintained and very well kept by its current owner, who has had the vehicle for some 25 years. Boasting low mileage, highly original specification throughout with only a few, thoughtfully carried out upgrades. This Gran Turismo legend is now looking for its new home and will be sure to attract the interest of many petrol heads out there!

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