FYI: With the R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R’s US import eligibility in 2024, its value has surged, leading to extensive restoration and modification efforts by enthusiasts. We revisit Nismo’s Omori Factory and its iconic 2014 Clubman Race Spec build.
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## The Rising Star: R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R
The legendary R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, specifically the final RB26-engined models, has seen a notable increase in value long before it even became eligible for import into the U.S. under the U.S. “25-year” rule. The import eligibility, which commenced in 2024 for the first 1999 models, has been one of the significant events awaited by car enthusiasts. Over the years, prices for these sought-after machines have only skyrocketed.
### The Nismo Omori Factory
In the realm of especially high performance, Nismo’s Omori Factory stands unparalleled. About a decade ago, Speedhunters spotlighted this hub of automotive magic where a uniquely exceptional “complete car” had just been completed. The vehicle, a Clubman Race Spec Skyline GT-R, was adorned with the pinnacle of factory-backed Nismo performance upgrades.
## The Ultimate 2014 Nismo Clubman Race Spec Build
We take a trip down memory lane to revisit Dino’s comprehensive feature on the 2014 Nismo Clubman Race Spec Skyline GT-R.
### Nismo’s Imprint on Enthusiast Culture
Nismo, Nissan’s motorsport division, has always been deeply ingrained in the enthusiast culture, producing a myriad of tuning parts for their road cars often derived from intense racing insights. While parallels are drawn to car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz’s AMG or BMW’s M division, Nismo offers a distinctly unique and tailored approach to performance tuning.
Although the extensive Nismo catalog can be a costly venture, it’s hard to deny the allure of crafting the perfect street car with their high-quality, precision-engineered parts. Nismo, indeed, has positioned itself not just as a tuning wing but as a visionary of ultimate performance vehicles.
### Building the Dream: Clubman Race Spec
Nismo’s Omori Factory took all the finest elements from their extensive parts catalog to construct what is arguably the ultimate street BNR34: the Clubman Race Spec. This bespoke model incorporates parts previously exclusive to the renowned Z-Tune editions and has been meticulously tuned for track enthusiasts.
#### Exterior Brilliance
The car’s exterior is a harmony of Z-tune body kit elements and standard Nismo aero upgrades, enhanced further with dry carbon components like the front bumper and widened front fenders, providing not just aesthetic prowess but functional enhancements. The vehicle demonstrates seamless integration of functional design aspects like the Z-tune fender vents, optimizing airflow and aiding engine cooling.
#### Performance-Oriented Engine Specifications
Under the hood, the Clubman Race Spec boasts Nismo’s R2-spec RB26 engine, generating around 450 horsepower. Rather than following the trend of massive turbos, Nismo’s conservative yet effective tuning ensures robust mid-range power delivery and stringent emissions control, complementing modern add-ons like the R35 injectors and a retuned ECU. This results in an estimated 500 horsepower output, driving through the automatic Getrag six-speed gearbox and utilizing a slew of Nismo engineered driveline components.
#### Suspension and Braking Excellence
The handling and stopping power are equally impressive, featuring Öhlins DFV adjustable suspension paired with stiffer sway bars and a comprehensive Nismo link set. The Nismo R35 Brembo brake kit ensures the stopping power matches the vehicle’s immense speed capabilities.
### Interiors: Where Function Meets Form
Inside, the Clubman Race Spec doesn’t shy away from its track-centric roots. A half roll cage, Alcantara-wrapped Nardi steering wheel, and premium Recaro seats create a cockpit poised for performance driving. Functional aesthetics extend with Nismo’s 320km/h speedometer and upgraded multi-function display, emphasizing the car’s high-performance capabilities.
### Conclusion
The Nismo Clubman Race Spec, while not directly competing with high-performance production cars like BMW M or AMG, offers a unique proposition by blending road-legal modifications with track-day readiness. By catering to both the seasoned driver and passionate enthusiast, Nismo continues to support and expand their offerings for beloved Nissan models. This spirit of continuous improvement and dedication to performance tuning cements Nismo’s unique place in the world of automotive high-performance culture.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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Numbers: Over 450 horsepower
Engine Details: Nismo R2 complete engine, RB26 N1 engine block, and more.
Driveline: Factory BNR34 GT-R six-speed gearbox, Nismo transmission mounts, etc.
Suspension/Brakes: Öhlins DFV adjustable suspension, Nismo Brembo brake kit.
Wheels/Tires: Nismo LM GT4 Omori spec wheels and Yokohama Advan Neova AD08 tires.
Exterior: Nismo carbon fiber Z-tune parts, Gunmetal paint.
Interior: Half roll cage, Recaro seats, Nismo gauges.
This detailed breakdown showcases just how much thought and craftsmanship went into creating the 2014 Nismo Clubman Race Spec BNR34, solidifying its status as an epitome of precision engineering and ultimate performance.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi