A Unique Member of the Skyline Family
While low-mileage Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 generation models often attract the most collector attention, the Nismo 400R stands apart as a true unicorn. The often underappreciated R33 generation, not held in the same high esteem as the R32 and R34, gifted the world one of the most significant Skylines ever built. This car was conceived as a road-going version dedicated to the GT-R LM that competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
Nismo’s Engineering Work
In creating the 400R, Nismo’s engineers took the already impressive GT-R V-Spec as a base and significantly developed its potential. They installed a new exhaust system, an upgraded intercooler, a twin-disc clutch, special three-piece Rays wheels, and refined the suspension by fitting Nismo springs and Bilstein dampers.
A Rare Homologation Special
Nissan initially planned to produce 100 units of the 400R, but reportedly, production ended after just 44 cars. Of these, only 40 were officially confirmed, making this version one of the rarest and most coveted among all Skylines.
Auction Success
Next month, one of these cars will cross the auction block at Broad Arrow Auctions with an estimated selling price between $900,000 and $1.1 million. This specific example is number 8 out of the 44 built.
It spent most of its life in Japan before being purchased by its current owner in 2022 and exported to Canada the following year. In 2024, the car was imported into the United States.
Condition and Features of the Example
The car’s mileage is 16,316 km (10,136 miles), and it is currently part of a collection in North Carolina. It appears to have been meticulously maintained, yet it hasn’t been just a static display piece. The QM1 White paint is in excellent condition and seems to have no visible damage.
The interior also looks nearly new and even has hidden gauges in the glovebox. The dashboard also features a bright yellow emergency cut-off switch, underscoring the seriousness of this car.
A Chance for a Collector
If you have nearly a million dollars waiting for their moment, this could be your chance. A car like this doesn’t come along every day. A car born from the spirit of Le Mans is ready to find a new owner.
This auction lot vividly illustrates how the collector car market is changing, where rarity and historical significance often outweigh the mainstream popularity of certain models. The success of the R33 Nismo 400R could contribute to a reassessment of the entire generation among enthusiasts, shifting focus to engineering achievements and uniqueness, not just the cultural legacy of its predecessors and successors. A sale at such a price also indicates growing international demand for Japanese cars that were once only available on the domestic market.