1987 Nissan Skyline GTS-R HR31 Coupe

Description

Precursor to the fabled R32 ‘Godzilla’, Nissan built a homologation version of the R31 generation Skyline to qualify for Group A.  Built exclusively for the Japanese market, the HR31 GTS-R was announced in late 1987 and featured an extensively reworked version of the cooking RB20DET engine boasting a larger Garrett turbocharger and intercooler, revised throttle bodies and ECU.  Power output was boosted to 154kW at 6000rpm, delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed transmission and limited slip diff, along with HICAS all-wheel steering system and revised suspension geometry.  All were finished in the same Bluish Black colour scheme, with front and rear spoilers to aid downforce and BBS 15-inch alloys were optional.  Although Nissan had to build 500 to qualify the R31 Skyline for Group A, a total of 823 GTS-Rs were ultimately manufactured, all pre-sold and they have long enjoyed a cult following in Japan.  Racing versions were said to be making over 321 kW in Group A trim.  Jim Richards and Mark Skaife drove a Gibson Motorsport prepared Skyline GTS-R to win the 1989 Sandown 500 and Richards used his GTS-R in six of the eight races to win the 1990 Australian Touring Car Championship, switching to the new the R32 GT-R successor for the final two rounds of the series.  Nissan Motorsports Europe (NME) also campaigned the R31 in the 1988 European Touring Car Championship with drivers Alan Grice and Win Percy achieving some very respectable results.  As a bridge between the first generation GT-Rs and later R32, R33 and R34 variants, the HR31 GTS-R has earned its place in Nissan’s performance car heritage and prices have finally begun to reflect its rarity.