"The R33 incarnation of the GT-R is still a pure sports car experience, but now aided by some of the most revolutionary handling technology to influence modern performance driving. The new R33 Skyline GT-R was launched in January 1995 with a base GT-R and the V-Spec model which offered a sportier suspension set-up resulting in lower ground clearance and also featured the newer ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel drive system, which included an Active Limited-Slip Differential. At the heart of the V-Spec was the ATTESA-ETS Pro Electronic Torque Split System which, at the time, made it arguably the most technologically advanced production car in the world. The system was conceived in the 1990s for the JTCC to enable some 600bhp to be fed through the wheels and on to the racetrack efficiently. The V-Spec also featured an active LSD on the rear axle which further aided traction by calculating the optimum torque-split between the left and right rear wheels, variable from fully locked to totally free. Working along with ATTESA-ETS Pro, is the SUPER HICAS rear-wheel steering. This uses a series of sensors to monitor vehicle motion, rate of turn and the driver's action on the steering wheel.
Complex software then compares this information to the computer predictions of the car's ideal turning characteristics, adjusting the angle of the rear wheels to reflect the driver's intentions.
The engine in the R33 was nearly identical to the previous R32 using the same turbochargers and the same specification for the manual gearbox, although the synchros were made to be stronger. The increased body rigidity and improved handling potential necessitated several specially designed cross members being incorporated into the monocoque and extra torsion bars were added to the multi-link suspension to further enhance stability. Working closely with Bridgestone technicians to perfect the Potenza tyres, Nissan put the prototype R33 GT-R through its paces in all weathers at the notorious Nürburgring, earning them a daring reputation amongst other manufacturers. To equalise front/rear weight distribution, the bonnet and front wings were made of aluminium instead of steel and the battery was fitted at the base of the car's boot, lowering the centre of gravity and further improving handling. The braking system was designed by Italy's famous Brembo Spa, suppliers to many of the world's Formula 1 teams at this time. Four-piston calipers were fitted on the front with two-piston calipers on the rear to bite into the discs with a diamond shaped ventilation bores which increased the surface area to aid heat dissipation.
There was a limited run of R33 GTS25TML specification, which is a Type M with, twin airbags, Active LSD and this superb example is indeed one of those which is presented in silver and was imported from Japan in 1999 and has had only one registered owner from then until today. The diff is a Skyline GTR V spec diff which is an electronically controlled LSD instead of a normal R33 diff. The car has been stored in a dry air-conditioned unit and has been extremely well looked after in this time. The car has grey cloth interior, air-conditioning, electric windows, toolkit and space saving spare wheel. This car is particularly special in that its turbo charged engine produces circa 900bhp and has only covered a mere 26,000 miles from new. The speedometer was re-calibrated to UK specification in 1998. With electrifying performance, not for the faint hearted and in such fabulous condition, this surely must be the one to have and would be interesting to test at Santa Pod or similar against more celebrated European sports cars, the result would be extremely interesting!
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