The R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R Can Finally Be Legally Imported to the United States in January

The R34 Skyline GT-R has garnered immense popularity throughout history, thanks to its stunning design, potent engine, exceptional handling, and its fame in the Fast and Furious franchise and various racing video games from the Y2K era. With its eligibility for importation beginning next year, the R34 GT-R stands as one of the most sought-after cars globally since its launch in 1999.

Besides being a dream car for many ’90s kids playing Gran Turismo, what sets the R34 Skyline GT-R apart? Its standout feature lies in its engine, the RB26DETT 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, renowned for its prowess then and now. With an initial claim of 276 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque by Nissan in 1999, this powerhouse engine was a standout in its era.

During that time, a celebrated “gentleman’s agreement” among Japanese automakers restricted power advertised to a maximum of 276 hp to promote safety and deter street racing. Notably, all GT-Rs, including the earlier R32 generation, produced over 300 hp in dyno tests. What made the GT-R’s remarkable twin-turbo I6 stand out was its immense tuning potential, allowing owners to extract significant power without internal modifications, cementing its reputation as a top tuner car of all time.

Even in its factory condition, the R34 GT-R shined. Its inline-six engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission powering all four wheels, coupled with Nissan’s HICAS four-wheel steering system, enhanced its agility and precision around corners.

Unfortunately, the Nissan Skyline GT-R was marketed in only a select few regions, like Japan, the UK, Hong Kong, and Australia, making it a rare gem for North American enthusiasts. However, next year, the floodgates are poised to open as collectors and admirers prepare to invest substantially in importing GT-Rs.

Wondering how to import one? Several methods exist for bringing a Japanese vehicle to the U.S. The simplest approach is to engage a reputable import company, such as Japanese Classics LLC or The Import Guys, to manage the entire process, handling fees, registration, shipping, and all required paperwork for you. While this service comes at a cost, it’s a more manageable option compared to navigating the process alone. Opting for a DIY route entails sourcing a GT-R through various channels like dealers, auctions, exporters, or private sellers, and then enlisting a customs broker to handle the intricate legal documentation. Given the complexities involved, many enthusiasts prefer the expertise of import companies to streamline the process.

Notably, not all R34 GT-Rs will obtain import approval on January 1, 2024. Import eligibility commences based on each vehicle’s 25-year manufacturing date. Therefore, if the 1999 GT-R under consideration was produced in March, the importation would be permissible in March 2024. As the R34 GT-R production commenced in January ’99, we can anticipate the initial models to surface in a few weeks.

Be prepared to invest significantly as the average price for an R34 GT-R stands at $201,480 according to Classic.com, and this is before the anticipated surge in demand within the U.S. market next year. Add to this the import fees, and importing an R34 Skyline GT-R will certainly come at a premium, involve complexities, and demand time. Nonetheless, for those with the financial means, overcoming these challenges is worthwhile to own one of the most iconic performance vehicles ever manufactured.

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