Unlike in the 1980s and 1990s, Nissan is currently not as focused on creating outrageous, high-performance sports cars to compete with all the big boys anymore. They are more commonly known nowadays as a car manufacturer that design cars with family, comfort, and emissions in mind. It’s important not to forget the insane cars that Nissan created during this period, a company determined for global domination.

That’s where cars like the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R come into play, an ambitious and highly impressive car poised for success. The Skyline and GT-R nameplates have an important role in making Nissan the worshipped JDM name. But the R32 is more special. This is the car that gave the GT-R its iconic pet name - the Godzilla! This and all other Skylines were a part of a plan, "901 Movement" to be precise. This project was planned to set Nissan on a path of Global succession while replacing Honda as Japan’s Premium car manufacturer. And boy did they get close!

Take a look at just how insane the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R is and indulge in what makes this Godzilla so special.

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R Was Eons Ahead Of The Competition

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R engine bay view
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So, within the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R lies the famous RB26DETT 2.6-liter in-line six DOHC twin-turbo engine. With the systems working in tow, the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R was able to produce 276 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, though these figures the Skyline R32 GT-R was able to reach speeds of 156 mph and achieve 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds.

With this immense powertrain, the Skyline R32 GT-R was easily able to push its competitors such as the BMW M3 and Porsche 911 aside. The engine was finished with an intercooler, dual belt-driven overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and most importantly a pair of ceramic Garrett turbochargers, to say it was a magnificent engine would be an understatement!

The spectacular engine worked alongside a 5-speed manual transmission to squeeze every ounce of power out of the car. The four-wheel-drive system fitted on the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R aided its massive cross-country speed on several types of terrain. Multi-plate clutch and a hydraulic unit were also used, sending power to either the front or rear wheels extremely quickly depending on the situation.

Another innovation of the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R was its rear-wheel steering, something not yet seen on many cars. The high capacity actively controlled steering allowed the driver to turn the rear wheels in the same or opposite directions to the front wheels, ultimately aiding the car's performance.

Related: 10 Reasons Why Gearheads Love The Nissan Skyline GT-R

Stand-Out Features Of The Skyline R32 GTR

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R interior view
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As always, it's often forgotten how important the braking capabilities of a monstrous car are, the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R did not let down in that department. Ventilated brake discs were clamped by four and two-piston calipers. The wheels in which these brakes were placed inside?

Five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza Radials, beautiful and appreciable. The Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R was the second Nissan following the Nissan 300ZX to be supported by a multi-link suspension that integrated diagonal upper control links, a trailing strut, and a lateral link.

It’s no surprise that the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R was so successful, it was vigorous yet elegant with superb mechanical set-ups. Putting everything aside, the noise of the Skyline R32 GT-R is breathtaking and screams speed and power. However, what’s even more impressive is the Skyline R32 GT-R’s ability to offer an exciting and thrilling ride and a relaxed and silent drive at the same time.

Probably one of the Skyline R32 GT-R’s best features is its pinpoint accurate handling and steering, where it’s still very difficult to find a car with handling as perfect as the Skyline R32 GT-R’s, truly incredible. It glides into corners with agility and grip and tends to execute them brilliantly.

Related: Why The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 Should Be On Every Gearhead’s Bucket List

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R Stood The Test Of Time

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R rear third quarter view
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Arguably during the 1990s, there were two stand-out performers when it came to JDM’s, and they were the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R and the Subaru Impreza. Now you know how amazing the Skyline was let’s look at the Subaru Impreza. It’s worth bearing in mind that the Subaru Impreza was released almost two years after the Skyline.

It housed a 1.8-liter engine paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. The result? A discouraging 110 hp and a 155-mph top speed, with a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds. So, a slightly smaller engine than the Skyline R32 GT-R, 1 mph slower than the Skyline, and a ridiculously less powerful engine than the Skyline.

All that the Subaru Impreza had a 1-second advantage when it came to 0-60 mph time. Not much of an advantage especially considering that the Subaru Impreza was two years younger! So, the GT-R overcame the battle of time here.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Hakosuka Nissan Skyline Is The Coolest JDM Classic Of All Time

So, Is The R32 GT-R The Best JDM Of All Time?

Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R side view
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Well, it’s safe to say that the Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R was controversially the best JDM of all time, miles above the rest you could say. An insane, exciting, and frighting ride for anybody whose lucky enough to find themselves inside a Skyline R32 GT-R. For a pristine 1994 Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R you’ll be extremely lucky to spend anything less than $62,558, proving that it’s one of, if not the best JDM’s to ever grace our roads.

Source: Nissan