The nissan skyline v35: a forgotten chapter before the r35

A departure from the gt-r legacy

For any true Japanese sports car enthusiast, the name Nissan Skyline evokes images of the iconic GT-R variants – specifically the beloved R32, R33, and R34 generations. However, nestled between the R34 and the revolutionary R35 lies the Skyline V35, a car often overlooked despite its significance. It represented a distinct shift in the Skyline’s identity, sharing key components with the popular Nissan 350Z. While not all Skylines are GT-Rs, the V35 marked a period of transition for this historically rich nameplate, originally born as the Prince Skyline.

From prince to nissan: a historical perspective

The Skyline’s history stretches back decades, and it continues to be sold as a standard sedan in Japan. Throughout the years, various iterations like the GT-T, GT-S, and GT-R have showcased its sporty side. The golden age of the GT-R arguably occurred in the 1990s with the celebrated R32 to R34 generations. The R34's retirement in 2002 paved the way for a new era, though it unfortunately saw a departure from the high-performance configuration fans had come to expect.

Introducing the skyline v35: a new foundation

The Nissan Skyline V35, the eleventh generation of the model, debuted in 2001. It was a significant departure as it was the first Skyline since the C10 model not to share a platform with the Nissan Laurel. Instead, it adopted the all-new FM platform, also utilized by the 350Z (known as the Fairlady Z in Japan). This change signaled a new direction for the Skyline, moving away from its previous roots.

Design and exterior changes

The V35’s design was noticeably more rounded compared to its predecessor, the R34. Key visual elements included distinctive vertical headlights paired with a wider chrome grille. The rear end featured a modern design, replacing the iconic circular taillights with “L” shaped units. Like previous generations, it was available in both coupe and sedan body styles, catering to different preferences. These styling cues reflected the design language prevalent in Nissan models of the early 2000s.

Interior and mechanicals: shared dna with the 350z

Inside, the V35 featured a completely redesigned interior, embracing a more contemporary aesthetic common in Nissan vehicles of the era. While the cabin was understated and functional, it maintained a rounded design language. Mechanically, the V35 employed V6 atmospheric engines, offering 2.5- and 3.5-liter options. Variants like the 250 GT and 300 GT utilized engines like the VQ25DD and VQ30DD. The higher-performance models, including those reminiscent of the 350Z, utilized the VQ35DE engine, producing up to 280 horsepower. The coupe shared considerable mechanical similarities with the 350Z, including a shared platform and rear-wheel drive, although all-wheel drive variants were also available.

Global appeal and the infiniti g35

The Skyline V35 gained popularity in markets like the United States, where it was sold as the Infiniti G35. Its more accessible price point, especially on the used market, made it an attractive option for enthusiasts. The shared platform with the 350Z, combined with similar engineering principles, further enhanced its appeal. While not as focused on outright performance as the 350Z, the V35 offered a compelling blend of style, performance, and value.

The subsequent generations and the gt-r's rebirth

The V35 generation continued until 2006, succeeded by the V36, which resembled a refreshed version of the 2001 model. The V36 boasted improved performance, with some models reaching up to 333 horsepower, although a GT-Rvariant was not offered. The return of the GT-R arrived with the groundbreaking R35 generation in 2007, built on the PM platform derived from the FM platform of the Skyline. While still sharing some lineage with the coupe and sedan, the R35 established the GT-R as a standalone model, a status it has maintained ever since.

The skyline’s enduring legacy

The Nissan Skyline continues to evolve, maintaining its unique identity in Japan. While the GT-R has moved on, awaiting its successor, the Skyline remains a testament to Nissan's engineering prowess and a reminder of a transitional period in the car’s storied history. Its contribution to the Automotive landscape, often overshadowed by the GT-R, deserves recognition.