Karkrub Review:
The 1990 R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline is a legendary vehicle that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. The rich history of Group A racing in Thailand, highlighting the fierce competition among manufacturers and teams during the era. It emphasizes the pivotal role of the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 in shaping the landscape of Thai motorsport, showcasing its unrivaled performance and technological innovations on the track.
The history of this R32 :
“Without limiting the topic because it will ‘dig’ endlessly, following whatever comes to mind and information found, for CALSONIC, it’s not a distant entity. Anyone who uses NISSAN, try opening the hood and you’ll find this name attached because it’s a company that manufactures OEM equipment for NISSAN primarily (although it may also produce for other brands) extensively. In terms of competition, the CALSONIC team will have two Japanese drivers, Kazuyoshi Hoshino and Masahiko Kageyama. Car number 12 won in the ’92 All Japan Touring Car Championship Rd.3 SUGO Group A 300km Race, completing 81 laps in a time of 2:02:07.027 hours. Besides the CALSONIC team, there are many other major teams that use SKYLINE GT-R R32 in Group A competitions, such as TAISAN, AXIA, HKS, JECS, KYOSEKI, CASTROL, etc. There are also teams from Australia, such as GIBSON Motorsport, competing in the ATCC or Australian Touring Car Championship, with drivers like Jim Richard and Mark Skaife. They went head-to-head with the V8s like HOLDEN or FORD SIERRA RS500 Turbo Group A, formidable opponents that made the SKYLINE GT-R R32 shine even more. The nickname ‘Godzilla’ came because of its abilities, not luck…”
Furthermore, the enduring legacy of the Skyline GT-R R32 in Thai motorsport culture, recounting memorable moments and victories that continue to inspire enthusiasts to this day. It serves as a tribute to the passion and dedication of all those involved in the Group A racing scene, cementing the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32’s status as a true hero of motorsport in Thailand.
Specifications:
The R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline boasts impressive specifications even by contemporary standards. Under its hood lies a formidable RB26DETT 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, generating around 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with an advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and a sophisticated HICAS four-wheel steering system, the GT-R delivers exceptional handling and performance. Its sleek and aerodynamic design, coupled with advanced technologies like Super-HICAS and the advanced ATTESA E-TS Pro system, ensures superior stability and control on any terrain.
Rarity in Thailand:
The R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline is considered a rare gem in Thailand, primarily due to limited imports and its high demand among collectors and enthusiasts. With only a handful of units making their way into the country, spotting one on Thai roads is a rare occurrence, making it a coveted possession among automotive aficionados.
History of the Model:
The R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline holds a storied history deeply rooted in motorsport excellence. It gained widespread acclaim for its dominant performance in motorsport competitions, including the Group A racing scene. Notably, it clinched victory in the 1990 and 1993 editions of the prestigious Australian Touring Car Championship (ATCC), solidifying its reputation as a formidable racing machine.
Development of the Model:
Nissan’s development of the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline was fueled by a relentless pursuit of engineering excellence and motorsport success. Drawing upon decades of racing heritage, Nissan engineers meticulously crafted a high-performance machine capable of conquering both the road and the track. The incorporation of cutting-edge technologies and relentless testing ensured that the GT-R emerged as a true icon of automotive engineering prowess.
Journalist Reviews:
Upon its release, the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline garnered widespread acclaim from automotive journalists worldwide. Praised for its blistering performance, razor-sharp handling, and iconic design, the GT-R received glowing reviews that cemented its status as a legend in the automotive realm. Critics lauded its ability to deliver supercar-rivaling performance at a fraction of the cost, making it an instant favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Types of Modifications:
Enthusiasts and tuners alike have long been drawn to the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline for its immense potential for aftermarket modifications. Popular upgrades include performance enhancements such as aftermarket exhaust systems, turbocharger upgrades, suspension enhancements, and brake upgrades. Additionally, cosmetic modifications such as body kits, spoilers, and custom paint jobs allow owners to personalize their GT-Rs according to their preferences, further enhancing its iconic appeal.
In conclusion, the 1990 R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline remains a timeless icon of automotive engineering excellence, revered for its unparalleled performance, rarity, and historical significance. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, ensuring its place among the most revered sports cars of all time.
Karkrub Score:
Design: 9/10
The design of the 1990 R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline is iconic and timeless. Its sleek lines, aggressive stance, and distinctive quad round taillights make it instantly recognizable. The aerodynamic profile not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves performance on the road and track. However, some may find its design slightly dated compared to modern sports cars, hence the deduction of one point.
Power: 10/10
With its RB26DETT twin-turbocharged inline-six engine producing around 280 horsepower, the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline delivers exhilarating performance that’s still impressive by today’s standards. Its power delivery is smooth and relentless, catapulting the car from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. This exceptional power output earns it a perfect score in this category.
Fun: 9/10
Behind the wheel of the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline, excitement is guaranteed. Its precise steering, responsive throttle, and superb handling make every drive an exhilarating experience. Whether carving through winding mountain roads or tearing up the racetrack, the GT-R never fails to put a smile on the driver’s face. However, its stiff suspension setup may compromise comfort on rough roads, hence the deduction of one point.
Comfort: 7/10
While the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline prioritizes performance, comfort hasn’t been entirely overlooked. The seats offer decent support during spirited driving, and the cabin is relatively well-insulated from road and engine noise. However, the ride can feel firm, especially over rough surfaces, and the interior lacks some of the creature comforts found in modern luxury sports cars, resulting in a slightly lower score in this category.
Reliability: 8/10
Nissan’s reputation for reliability shines through in the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline. The RB26DETT engine is known for its durability and robustness, capable of handling high levels of boost and power with proper maintenance. However, like any high-performance vehicle, it requires meticulous care and regular servicing to ensure longevity. Additionally, some electronic components may be prone to aging and require attention over time, leading to a slightly lower score in this category.
Safety: 6/10
While the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline offers decent safety features for its time, such as anti-lock brakes and advanced traction control systems, it lacks many of the modern safety technologies found in contemporary sports cars. Crash test ratings from the 1990s are not available, and the car’s relatively lightweight construction may raise concerns about occupant protection in the event of a collision, resulting in a lower score in this category.
Value: 9/10
Despite being over three decades old, the R32 GT-R Calsonic Skyline retains significant value in the automotive market. Its timeless design, legendary performance, and historical significance ensure that demand remains strong among enthusiasts and collectors. While prices have risen over the years, the GT-R still offers exceptional bang for the buck compared to many modern sports cars, earning it a high score in this category.
Average Score: 8.4/10
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