Owners of the Nissan Skyline GT-R can have decades of modifying officially undone, thanks to Nismo.
The performance and motorsport division of Nissan has just announced its ‘Nismo Restored Car’ programme. An R32 Skyline GT-R is the first car to be completed.
Customers will be able to send their GT-Rs for a detailed 12-step overhaul, returning them to as-new factory specification.
Back to square one
Nismo’s heritage department previously announced it will offer new parts for the R32 GT-R, which was sold between 1989 and 1995. The restoration builds on this, giving owners of the classic coupe a range of choices.
Individual options, such as repairing bodywork or specific replacement parts, can be selected. However, those with a bigger budget can ask Nismo to strip the car right back to bare metal.
Cars that undergo this process will receive a special numbered plaque, along with a new 20,000-km (12,427-mile) warranty.
Restored inside and out
The Restored Car programme begins with the GT-R being taken apart, with all components assessed in case they need replacing. Nismo then measures the car in 3D to check the chassis dimensions, and replaces any sections that have fatigued with age.
All paint is stripped, with a multi-stage process used to respray the bare chassis and body. Nismo notes this is much more detailed than a normal production line, making it more like a show car.
The famed RB26DETT turbocharged inline-six engine is fully rebuilt, with the option to have approved performance parts fitted. Transmission parts are checked and replaced where needed, while the ECU and other electrical items can be swapped for reprinted parts.
Due to changes in fire safety rules, Nismo cannot replace the interior fabric like-for-like. Instead, the upholstery found in the latest R35 GT-R can be used.
Sky(line) high prices
Finished cars are evaluated on a dynamometer, ensuring the rebuilt engine delivers the correct power, before moving on to a track test. Nismo will use the same standards as when the GT-R was first built, meaning it really should be like new.
At present, the six-month restoration process is currently only available in Japan. Skyline owners from other countries can appoint an agent to liaise with Nismo on their behalf, but will have to get their car to Japan.
Costs are subject to the options picked, but Nismo suggests a basic price of 45 million yen (£325,000) for the full restoration process.
While hugely expensive, it guarantees a classic Nissan Skyline GT-R that looks and drives like new.
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