1997 Nissan GT-R (R33)

Highlights 

• Later, improved series 3 model

• Professionally remapped by Skyline specialists Middlehurst

• Incredibly low mileage

• Sublime condition throughout

• Fully documented history

Overview

Certain models of car transcend mere metal, plastic, wires and rubber to become something more, something greater than a means of transport. Cars that even people without the least bit of interest in the subject can recognise as being iconic. Cars like the Porsche 911 and Volkswagen Beetle for instance. The humble Mini is another. While perhaps not quite as deeply ingrained in the public consciousness, to PHers, the Nissan Skyline, too, sits comfortably among their number and has rightly earned its legendary status in all guises.

The name “Skyline”, in motoring terms, actually dates all the way back to 1957 but it wasn't until the eighth generation to proudly wear the badge – the R32 GT-R, introduced in 1989 – that the wider world really stood up and took notice. Nicknamed “Godzilla” for its all-conquering racing pedigree it was the street version that left an indelible mark on the grand automotive tapestry.

Renowned for its 2.6-litre twin turbo flat six engine that could be modified to almost incomprehensible levels of tune, it became a cultural icon and remains dream garage material for many a petrolhead. 

Following rather adeptly in the gargantuan footprints left by the R32 was the R33 GT-R, another contender for “cars you wish you owned”. Debuting in '93 the R33 was a more rounded car, stylistically, but retained its predecessor's hugely capable engine and carried the torch admirably before giving way to the R34 GT-R in 1998. But like the two models it's sandwiched between, it is still vehemently respected and revered in equal measure.

And that's exactly what we have here: a rare 1997 Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R in impeccable condition throughout and with just 18K miles on the clock. Imported from new into the UK and mapped at Skyline specialists Middlehurst to 360bhp, it's an incredible example.

Off the road from 2017 it was subsequently fully serviced and recommissioned by the vendor in 2023, presents beautifully inside and out and is ready to be enjoyed by its next lucky owner. Being a post-facelift, series 3 example it comes complete with extra bracing, N1 bumper ducts, deeper front spoiler and Xenon headlights. Rarely do R33 GT-Rs of this condition and mileage come to market. Don’t miss your chance.

History and documentation

• 1997 model year (series 3)

• Imported from new into the UK (correct documentation included)

• Speedometer converted from kms to miles and radio reprogrammed to UK spec in 1999

• Nismo springs fitted and replacement ECU remapped to 360bhp on super unleaded fuel at Middlehurst 08/1999

• Original book pack

• Two keys (including gold GT-R key)

• All MOT certificates to 2016

• SORN'd from 2017 to 2023

• Fully serviced and recommissioned in 2023 by the current owner

• All invoices for work carried out are present

• Original bill of sale

• Private registration included

• V5C present and correct

• First registered 18 Mar 1998

• MOT until 04 Jul 2026

• HPI clear

• 18,390 miles 

Interior

• In stunning condition throughout 

• No apparent signs of wear or tear

• Original deep pile floor mats appear as new

• Rare factory-optioned Momo steering wheel in excellent shape

• Pioneer stereo head unit

• Door cards, headlining and dashboard are in fine fettle

• All electrics, switchgear and gauges work perfectly

• Toad alarm fitted, complete with two fobs 

• The boot space presents equally well and comes complete with spare wheel

Exterior

• The bright white paintwork presents beautifully with no evidence of any marks or blemishes at all

• The vendor informs us that the paint is believed to be original apart from the front and rear bumpers that have been repainted

• Front splitter restored back to its original satin black

• All shut lines are spot on

• All badges present and correct

• No signs of corrosion anywhere on the car

• Original 17” wheels are spotless and appear never to have been refurbished as they still have the original manufacturer's grey dot on all of them

• All four tyres are Bridgestone Potenza S001 models, new at the time of recommissioning

• Underneath the car is in similarly excellent condition, evincing the car's limited use

• The engine bay is clean and appears to be in fine shape with no build up of grime

Mechanical

• 2.6-litre twin turbo six-cylinder engine

• Professionally remapped to 360bhp

• Five-speed manual gearbox

• ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel drive system with a limited-slip differential

• Despite the 'V-Spec' badge, the vendor advises that it is not a V-Spec, which means that the diff is mechanical rather than electronic which many believe to be stronger and more reliable

• Nismo springs

• Fully serviced, including all new belts in 2023

• Front and rear strut braces

• No signs of any fluid leaks

• No mechanical issues to report

Summary

Make no mistake, R33 GT-Rs don't come much better than this. Forget your souped-up, overly modified examples, a stock setup is where it's at, especially when it comes to resale value. Yes this car has been remapped but it has been done sympathetically by a professional outfit who know their onions when it comes to harnessing the true capabilities of these cars and to better suit the mechanicals to UK fuel. 

In absolutely remarkable condition throughout and with incredibly low mileage you really don't want to miss out on this one ladies and gentlemen, trust us.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Omagh, Northern Ireland.