Nissan Skyline GT-R32: From Street Car to Show-Stopping Masterpiece

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Brian Hares

1991 Nissan Skyline GT-R32

Instagram: @veilside_r32gtr

Photographer Adam Delgadillo

Instagram: @oadam7

Brian Hares' love affair with his 1991 Nissan Skyline GT-R32 began in October 2017, not in a showroom, but through a Craigslist ad in Philadelphia – a whopping 1,500 miles from his home in Dallas, Texas.  A quick conversation with his wife, a road trip later, and Brian found himself the proud owner of a car that perfectly matched his vision.

From Race Car to Street King: The Car's History

The chassis was a genuine BNR32, originally purchased by a race team in 2001. These weren't your average racers, though. They acquired five R32 GTRs through a court order, bypassing the then-inapplicable 25-year import restriction. Transformed into 1400-horsepower dragsters, each car boasted a parachute, a roll cage, and a Powerglide transmission.

When Brian's seller acquired the car, it was stripped of its racing heart – the 1400HP RB26 engine and Powerglide transmission – leaving a caged rolling chassis. While the cage and most race modifications were removed, a fun little feature remained: the line-lock system, perfect for smoky burnouts!  Restored to a near-stock condition, the car spent its next few years as a local show car in Philadelphia.

A twist of fate, however, presented itself. The owner also possessed a crashed 2001 R34 GTT in Australia, and its perfect engine – an RB25DET Neo – was destined for a new home.  Meticulously crated and shipped across the Pacific, this engine became the beating heart of Brian's R32.

A Symphony of Power: Nissan Skyline GT-R32 Engine & Modifications

The engine modifications were extensive, and meticulously crafted for both performance and efficiency. Here are some highlights:

• RB25DET Neo engine (from the crashed R34)

• Single turbocharger setup with a Garrett 466159-5004 T3 60 Trim

• Upgraded fuel system with R35 OEM 555cc injectors and a Spec Stage 3 clutch

• RB26 upgraded transmission for smooth power handling

• HKS Type R intercooler for efficient cooling

• AEM stealth 340lph pump to keep the fuel flowing

This impressive combination translates to a solid 650 horsepower at a healthy 28 psi of boost.

From Wrap to Widebody: The Visual Transformation

Brian wasn't done there. The car's initial satin purple wrap was swapped for a vibrant gloss orange-red flip color, accompanied by a new set of Revo Forged wheels. However, a fateful hood latch failure, resulting in over $11,000 in damages, presented an opportunity for a more dramatic transformation.

A lifelong Veilside fan, Brian set his sights on the coveted Veilside Combat 1 full-body kit. While waiting for its construction, the coilovers were replaced with a complete 3P air management system and FV air struts.  The car's suspension also received a significant upgrade:

• Front Z32 spindle and bearing conversion for improved handling

• Customizable air suspension system for both performance and show stance

• S14 subframe swap for enhanced rigidity

• SPL Parts full rear suspension for precise control

• Whiteline sway bars for increased cornering stability

• Tomei Trax 1.5 differential for optimal power delivery

• REVO Forged custom-built 18-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance Firestone Firehawk tyres

The interior wasn't neglected either. A Cusco 8-point roll cage ensures safety, while Veilside carbon fiber race seats with Sparco harnesses keep the driver firmly planted. A custom-made Vertex steering wheel with an NRG quick-release system adds a touch of personalized flair.

Award-Winning Masterpiece: The Road to SEMA

The final touch was a stunning TinyBot vinyl wrap in a metallic yellow, accented by carbon fiber details on the Veilside front bumper and rear wing. This transformation wasn't just for show – in 2023, Brian's Nissan dominated the car show scene, consistently winning "Best in Class" or "Top Nissan" at every event it entered.

The car's accolades didn't stop there. It received a coveted invitation to be displayed at the 2023 SEMA Show, a prestigious honor in the automotive aftermarket industry. This invitation solidified Brian's R32 as a true masterpiece, a testament to his passion, meticulous planning, and the dedication of those who helped him achieve his vision.

The Nissan Skyline GT-R32 Future's Bright: More Power and Show-Stopping Potential

Brian's journey with his R32 isn't over. This winter, the plans involve serious engine upgrades:

• Stroking the RB25DET Neo to a 2.6L for increased displacement and power

• Upgrading the turbo to a Borg Warner S369 SX-E 9180 for even more boost potential

• Swapping the injectors for Dynamic ID 1700X units to handle the increased fuel flow

• Installing a full race top mount manifold with dual wastegates for optimized performance

These upgrades promise not only a significant power increase but also a visually stunning engine bay once the hood is popped.

Brian Hares' 1991 Nissan Skyline GT-R32 is a true testament to the transformative power of passion and dedication. From a used Craigslist find to a multiple-award-winning show car and SEMA attendee, this car's journey is an inspiration to car enthusiasts everywhere.  It's a reminder that with the right vision, meticulous planning, and a touch of serendipity, any car can become a true masterpiece.

More Nissan Skyline GT-R32s on our site:

Brian - 1993 Nissan Skyline R32 GTR

1989 Nissan Skyline GTS-T R32: Built with Passion

Jeff Perez - 1991 Nissan Skyline GTR

Jacob - 1990 Nissan r32 GT-R

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