1989 - 1993 NISSAN SKYLINE R32 GT-R
BODY & CHASSIS
Rust should not be apparent in Australian-delivered cars, the majority of which haven’t seen enough rain to go rusty. Caution is essential with those that started life in Japan risking exposure to icy conditions. They need to be lifted and closely inspected for any corrosion or repairs. Crash damage is an issue with all GTRs so look for kinks to the front chassis rails, partial repaints and mismatched front or rear lenses. The extra weight of that hefty rear wing can weaken boot-lid supports and water can leak through mounting holes.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The GTR with its twin turbochargers and ageing components is not something the home mechanic can ‘fix up’ on weekends. Avoiding big repair bills is best achieved by choosing a car – local or used import – that comes with recent service history. If the turbochargers haven’t been replaced or there’s no evidence of servicing at least every 5000 kilometres, assume major work will shortly be needed, and pay accordingly. White exhaust smoke indicates oil being burned in the turbochargers. Check under-bonnet hoses and plastic components for perishing and heat damage and the cylinder head for oil leaks. Rapid standing starts hurt the clutch which costs more than $2000 to replace. Listen for clunks from rear drive-shafts or the differential.
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
Check that the HICAS four-wheel steering and ABS are still operating. Many GTRs travel minimal distances but shock absorbers, bushes and brake components still deteriorate due to age alone. Re-kitting wheel cylinders and the booster, changing hoses and standard pads will cost more than $1500. Standard brakes fitted to GTRs weren’t really up to the cars’ potential and a lot will have later, larger rotors and calipers. Rotors warp due to excessive heat and pulse through the pedal. When new these cars sat high with at least a handdepth of clearance between the tyre and wheel-arch. A car that sits noticeably nosedown or unevenly may have had its springs shortened by a dodgy technician.
INTERIOR & ELECTRICS
The GTR interior is basic but trimmed in quality materials so a well-kept car should be on its original seats with minimal deterioration to the cabin plastics. Cars that began their working lives overseas can show wear to the seat bolsters but avoid any car that shows low kilometres and a trashed interior. The odometer will have been ‘fiddled’ or replaced. Age can afflict electrical components as well, so a full check of every switch and gauge is recommended. The air-conditioning should activate with an audible click and send a stream of cold air through the vents within 20 seconds