The 1971 Nissan Skyline GT-X, was second in terms of performance to the Skyline GT-R
It was until 2007 that we here in the United States were first able to by Nissan’s legendary GT-R R35. However, many video game and car aficionados have long known about the Skyline legacy through video games and the automotive press.
While unknown in the United States, the Skyline is legendary in Japan and is highly revered. Finding a classic Skyline much less anything other that the GT-R R35 is a challenging task. As a result, when a classic 1971 Skyline GT-X shows up for sale in the United States, it is a newsworthy event.
Offered with a ‘Buy It Now” price of $70,000 on EBay, vehicle is no longer offered on EBay. As a result, I have to assume that it sold, I am sure for close to the asking price.
The first GT-R Skyline appeared in 1969 as a four-door model with a two door model appearing in 1970. Dubbed the Hakosuka, with ‘hako’ meaning box and ‘suka’ short for Skyline, developed quite the following in Japan.
To prepare them for competition, the cars were stripped of unnecessary equipment in order to be as light as possible for racing. The GT-R performed quite well at the track racking up 33 victories in less than two years, with the coupe stretching this to 50 through 1972.
Whereas the GT-R was powered by a 2.0-liter S20 inline 6, a double overhead cam engine that produced 160 horsepower. In contrast, the GT-X had a 2.0-liter L20 straight-six engine, producing 120 horsepower. With that said, the GT-X is second in terms of performance compared to the GT-R.
That being said, the vehicle for sale is not accurately presented with the GT-R badges. For detail-oriented collectors, of which there are many, this may be an issue.
According to the seller, the car “just underwent a complete driveline rebuild. The engine is fully rebuilt with less than 100 miles on it.” Adding, it has “original L20 with triple solex 44mm carbs and full-length header with a dual 2” exhaust”. The seller adds that the brakes were just serviced, adding new 280z calipers and pads.
The car has several aftermarket mods including a set of lowering springs, a Momo steering wheel, a front chin spoiler, rear wing and gorgeous Watanable 14-inch front and 15-inch rear wheels.
If you are in the market for a piece of Nissan Skyline history, this 1971 Nissan Skyline GT-X just might be your ticket. It is rare and desirable and should only increase in value.
