NISSAN Skyline GT-R V-Spec (R33) 1995-1998 Photos, engines & full specs

Nissan introduced the fourth generation of the Skyline GT-R nameplate in 1995, and it was available in two trim levels: the GT-R and the V-Spec.

With the V-Spec version, the carmaker succeeded in an astonishing performance by lowering the Nurburgring lap time to under eight minutes. Dirk Shoysman, a professional racing driver, managed to get 7m59s887” around the famous German track, also known as the “Green Hell.” He did that in a GT-R V-Spec. The V-Spec came from its predecessor, the R32 when that name symbolized the “Victory-Specification,” which was applied to the upgraded cars that won the Group N and Group A racing categories in Japan.

Unlike the rest of the GT-R range, this version also received a few particular visual upgrades, such as the wider lower grille and the side scoops that cooled the brakes. In addition, another set of vents was placed on the specific Nismo bumper, flanking the license plate. Furthermore, the hood was made from aluminum to lighten the front of the car. Last but not least, it was fitted with 17” light-alloy BBS wheels.

Like its predecessor, the R32 V-Spec, the 1995 model came fitted with dual airbags, which became mandatory in Japan. The sport seats with integrated headrests and high-bolstered areas were also fitted as standard.

But the most important part of the car was underneath the shiny bodywork. Its stiffer and lowered suspension was needed for higher-speed cornering. In addition, the car was fitted with the ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel drive system that featured an intelligent center differential that sent the power to the axle with the best available grip. Under the hood, the carmaker installed the same RB26DETT inline-six powerplant that was declared as offering 280 PS (276 hp).