Dream Cars

1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka: A Timeless Classic

Read Marcos Regalado's 1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka, a stunning build featuring a Rebello 3.0 engine, vibrant colors, and a rich automotive history

Mr2mivin

1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka

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Marcos Regalado - 1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka

Instagram: @regalado2428

Photographer: Marvin Recinos

Instagram: @mr2mivin

Performance Stats: Rebello Engine 3.0 320HP

Introduction: A Passion for Cars

My name is Marcos Regalado, and my automotive journey began with my father, who instilled in me a deep passion for cars. Living in San Jose, California, I’ve always believed in the mantra "family first, work hard, and enjoy life." I try to attend most car shows in my area, and I don’t mind traveling for the right events. I've participated in the Japanese Classic Car Show (JCCS) in Southern California and Monterey Car Week, where Nissan and MotorTrend showcased my Hakosuka in their booth. One day, I hope to attend SEMA with one of my cars.

1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka

The Allure of the Hakosuka

The 1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka was an easy choice for me. The Datsun 510 is one of my favorite cars, and the Hakosuka shares very similar body lines. This particular Hakosuka is painted in EV1 Lightning Yellow, one of Nissan’s brightest colors. It features an electrifying and vibrant tone of yellow, perfectly complemented by honeycomb carbon fiber accents. The Watanabe wheels give it the perfect period-correct look that makes this classic stand out.

Unmatched Performance

The raw power from the Rebello 3.0 engine is indescribable. With 320 horsepower in a 1970s car, it feels like 700 horsepower in a modern vehicle—definitely smiles per gallon, as they say. The GTR chassis has always been ahead of its time; even though the Hakosuka was designed in the 1970s, it feels and handles remarkably well.

Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka: The Build

This 1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka underwent an extensive build, featuring T/C Polyurethane bushings and Ermish Racing front/rear crossmembers and rear trailing arms. The suspension benefits from Koni Street/Sport struts and Eibach springs (275 lbs), complemented by Ermish Racing powder-coated components, new Skyline ball joints, a front sway bar, lower control arm bushings, and a 2-inch differential bushing. The braking system was upgraded with new rear stub axles and brake backing plates, Datsun 510 wheel cylinders, Wilwood calipers, and a new brake hardware kit, all filled with Redline 80W 140 fluid.

Power comes from a Rebello Hako engine, producing 300 horsepower, fed by three Mikuni PHH44 carburetors that underwent a complete teardown and rebuild. The exhaust system features stainless steel tubing and a 3-inch Borla muffler. Handling is enhanced with Skyline tie rod end outer/inner components. The car rides on 15x7-inch Watanabe Racing wheels in the front, fitted with 225/45 ZR15 Nitto tires, while the rear boasts 15x10 wheels wrapped in 235/50 ZR15 Nitto tires. A clutch kit for a 3.0 engine ensures power delivery.

1972 Nissan Skyline GTR Hakosuka

Who Did the Work?

The installation of the engine and interior work was expertly handled by Marco at SR20Store.

Future Plans for the Hakosuka

The car will soon be heading to Texas for significant upgrades as I strive to restore it to its former glory. This Hakosuka is one of my favorites in my collection, and the building aspect may never truly end.