-about skyline-
The Skyline name first appeared in the 1960s by a Japanese car
company called Prince. Nissan absorbed Prince at a later time. By
the late eighties and early nineties, Nissan re-released the
Skyline GT-R as a technological de-force turbocharged, all wheel
drive, four wheel steering, and Brembo brake equipped super car.
Skylines during this era are known as the R32 (early 90s), R33 (mid
90s), and the recently released R34. There are "lesser" Skylines
which are basically rear-wheel drive versus all wheel drive GT-Rs.
For the first time, the current platform "regular" Skylines also
share the 280bhp maximum power.
The Skyline GT-R V Spec. is the most potent of these cars. A twin
turbo inline 6 produces an official rating of 280bhp. However we
suspect (like many others) that this is for political correctness
in Japan. Judging by seat of the pants and the acceleration
numbers, we would peg it at over 300bhp. The engine is velvety
smooth revving up to 8000rpm. Can you say POWER? The transmission
gates are accurate and easier to row than a 300bhp car has a right
to. With reason since the transmission was designed both by Getrag
and Nissan. Skylines are rumored to have the best traction and
handling capabilities of any car. This is owed to a computer
controlled all-wheel drive system (ATESSA-ETS) with limited slip
differentials for each axle as well as a center differential.
Normally the car is rear wheel drive biased for the proper sports
car feeling, however if the computer senses any slip, appropriate
action is taken to stabilize traction. You can force power drifts
but eventually the computer will intervene to prevent any
disasters...of course keep in mind the laws of physics can't be
defied! On top of the stickiness of all wheel drive, the GT-R V
Spec. comes with four wheel steering (Super HICAS) for even more
stability during high speed maneuvering. Stability is also effected
by a car's body structure. Nissan went overboard and added braces
for different parts of the car including the front and rear strut
towers. This all leads to a very stiff platform contributing to the
Skyline's high speed prowess.
Finally for a car that can go so fast, you eventually have to slow
down. No problem. The GT-R V Spec. comes with huge ventilated
Brembo brakes with ABS to haul you down very quickly and shortly.
Nissan for the new R34 added aerodynamic aids underneath the car to
cool the brakes even more for better stopping and less
fade.
