Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 Buyers Guide 1999-2002
R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R Buyer’s Guide – 2025 Update
The R34 version of the Nissan Skyline GT-R is the most sought-after generation of Skyline GT-R in the world. As 1999 models have entered 25-year import eligibility, demand has surged and misinformation has exploded. This guide provides accurate, current 2025 information on pricing, model differences, legality, import options, and what to look for when buying an R34.
We will answer the most important questions:
- How much does an R34 GT-R cost in 2025?
- Which R34 model is best for you?
- What is Show or Display, and which cars qualify?
- Can you buy an R34 now and store it in Japan?
- What makes a car legal vs. illegal to import?
R32 GT-R Buyer’s Guide
R33 GT-R Buyer’s Guide
Skyline Index & Reference Page
R34 Overview
The R34 GT-R is an evolution of the R32 and R33 platforms, keeping the legendary RB26DETT engine while refining nearly every system. The chassis is stiffer, the ATTESA all-wheel-drive system is more advanced, the aerodynamics are improved, and the interior features the now-iconic multifunction display (MFD).
All R34 GT-Rs use:
- RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six
- ATTESA ETS-Pro AWD (with active rear diff on V-Spec models)
- Getrag V160 6-speed transmission
- Aluminum hood and fenders (carbon hood on V-Spec II)
R34 Pricing Overview (Updated for 2025)
As of 2025, approximate landed & serviced pricing through Toprank Importers:
- Base R34 GT-R (non V-Spec): $140,000+
- V-Spec / V-Spec II: $160,000+
- LV4 Midnight Purple II (Show or Display): $200,000+
- M-Spec Nür / V-Spec II Nür: $350,000+
- NISMO Omori CRS (Clubman Race Spec): $750,000+
- NISMO Z-Tune: $2,000,000 – $5,000,000+
Values depend on mileage, condition, originality, rarity, and documentation. Special colors and limited editions command substantial premiums.
Legal Import Options (2025)
1. The 25-Year Rule
R34 GT-Rs become legal for import into the USA when they turn 25 years old, based on month and year of production:
- 1999 models – Now legal
- 2000 models – Legal in 2025
- 2001 models – Legal in 2026
- 2002 models – Legal in 2027
We offer legal storage in Japan until your vehicle reaches 25-year eligibility.
2. MotoRex-Legalized R34s (approx. 15 cars)
These cars were legally federalized in the early 2000s and have an official NHTSA bond release. Because bond releases are sometimes forged, buyers should verify authenticity:
NHTSA Import Hotline: (202) 366-5291
Official portal: https://www.nhtsa.gov/importing-vehicle
3. Show or Display (SOD)
NHTSA has approved ONLY the following R34 GT-Rs for Show or Display:
- 1999 GT-R V-Spec (early) – Midnight Purple II (LV4)
- 2002 GT-R M-Spec Nür
Restrictions:
- 2,500 miles/year limit in the US
- 1999 models are EPA-exempt; 2002 Nür models are not and require EPA compliance
Midnight Purple III (LX0) is not approved.
Production Numbers
Total R34 GT-Rs built: 11,578
- GT-R – 3,977
- V-Spec – 4,192
- V-Spec N1 – 38
- V-Spec II – 1,855
- V-Spec II N1 – 18
- M-Spec – 366
- V-Spec II Nür – 717
- M-Spec Nür – 285
Export-market versions exist for the UK, HK, Singapore, and NZ.
R34 Paint & Color Codes
Popular and special paint codes include:
- TV2 – Bayside Blue
- QM1 – White
- KR4 – Sonic Silver
- KV2 – Athlete Silver
- GV1 – Black Pearl
- AR2 – Active Red
- EV1 – Lightning Yellow
- LV4 – Midnight Purple II
- LX0 – Midnight Purple III
- JW0 – Millennium Jade (Nür)
Example Colors
Chassis & VIN Information
- BNR34-000001 – First production chassis
- BNR34-007131 – Last early (07/2000)
- BNR34-400001 – First late (09/2000)
- BNR34-404495 – Last V-Spec II (08/29/02)
- BNR34-404483 – Last M-Spec (08/28/02)
ATTESA ETS-Pro
The R34’s AWD system is the most advanced of the RB26 era. ETS-Pro features:
- Faster hydraulic control
- Better front/rear torque management
- Active rear differential on V-Spec models
Common R34 Issues
MFD Screen Failure
Nearly all original R34 MFDs suffer screen burn, lines, or dead pixels. Replacement screens are available.
Getrag V160 Transmission
The Getrag 6-speed is strong but expensive. Issues include:
- Noisy at idle
- Synchro wear
- Limited parts availability
- Now $10,000+ for replacement units
Seats
- Early = gray cloth
- Late = black cloth
- Bolsters commonly worn
- Fabric is no longer available new
- $5,000–$10,000 for clean black sets
Rust & Jacking Damage
Check pinch welds, jacking points, rear arches, trunk seams, and battery tray areas. Incorrect jacking is extremely common.
Aero & Diffusers
- V-Spec diffuser is carbon and fragile
- Very expensive to replace
- Front lip is hollow plastic and often split
Ready to Buy an R34 GT-R?
Toprank Importers can source, inspect, store, and legally import your R34 GT-R. Whether you want a clean non-V-Spec, a Nür, a Show or Display LV4, or a full CRS or Z-Tune build, we can help you purchase safely and legally.
