Bayside Blue: Nissan R34 GT-R

Bayside

Without a doubt, the Nissan GT-R is one of the most celebrated and defining sports cars of all time, making it a JDM dream.

The GT-R name dates back to 1969 when Shinichiro Sakurai introduced the world to the Skyline GT-R, which comprised of a detuned engine from the Prince Motors R380 fitted inside the 4-door Skyline – a first of its kind at the time. This engineering marvel was the start of a legacy spanning more than 50 years with striking upgrades over time.

One of the more iconic and revolutionary models was the R32 (1989), introducing the mighty RB26DETT engine – a twin-turbo straight 6 that went on to power the Skyline GT-R lineup until 2002. The R32 was built to dominate the JTCC Group A, and it did. Out of the 29 races it competed in, the R32 won every single one. Thereon, the Skyline GT-R went on to win several ATCCs and earned its nickname ‘Godzilla’ – the absolute beast from Japan.

Andy’s GT-R V-Spec is the quintessential R34, thanks to its beefed-up aesthetics, performance, and unmistakable Bayside Blue paint job.

Unbounded

Like many enthusiasts all over the world, Andy’s love for the R34 started young, with video games and movies such as Fast & Furious sealing the deal for him. GT-Rs are known for their innate ability to hug tight corners at blistering speeds. In fact, the R33 was the first sports coupé to go around the Nürburgring in under 8 minutes. 

The R32, R33 and the R34 were also a solid choice for street racing gangs such as the infamous Mid Night Club in Japan, an exclusive club for the most skilled drivers and equally high performing cars. Nissan even released a special paint option titled ‘Midnight Purple’ for the R33, perhaps an unofficial tribute to the Club.

Despite these staggering facts, Andy’s goal was to focus on performance upgrades that would take his R34 to another level.

Built Different

Andy’s build puts out an astonishing 654HP / 488KW at the wheels thanks to upgrades such as HKS camshafts, Tomei cam gears, and a Garrett turbo. This behemoth of a powerhouse sends all of its horses to a set of Nismo LMGT Black Omori Edition wheels, that sit on a set of BC gold coil-overs.

To make things even more unique, this R34’s brakes were swapped out with those from an R35 – a wise investment considering the sheer power that hides under the hood.

Matching the satanic performance is an equally dominating aesthetic. Andy’s GT-R is fitted with the Z-tune bonnet as well as Z-tune guards, fenders, side skirts, and rear pods. One of the most striking features is of course the paint job, the sublime Bayside Blue. 

The delicate blend of power, handling, and eye-grabbing aesthetics culminate in a spectacular machine – an elevation of the legendary Godzilla.

Promising Future

Although the parts fitted to this GT-R came from all over the world, something that usually leads to a series of complications, Andy’s build lasted six months without any setbacks.

The R35 brake callipers were purchased in the States, the adapted plates and brackets were ordered from the UK, and the rest of the upgrades were sourced from Japan.

However, the build most definitely will not stop there. Andy’s R34 has a bright future ahead – he plans on opting for a bigger set up with an R32 bottom end, a bigger turbo, and a sequential gearbox. These upgrades will continue to refine this GT-R’s performance and cement its place on the streets and the racetrack.

The Crew

Andy would like to thank some key people who had their hands involved with the GT-R.

This build was made possible with the help of Hamza, Adam, Sonny, and Waseem at JEM, Glenn Caetano from Caetano Body Works, and James from Track Ready Aero.

MODIFICATION LIST

With a focus on performance upgrades, Andy has perfected a balance of modifications that are perfect for the street, yet still capable on the track.

Check out what’s been fitted in the sections below.