When Ben Collins — the man behind the mask as The Stig — speaks, enthusiasts listen. In this latest video, the ex-Top Gear icon dives into his favorite Nissans, and yes, the Skyline GT-R lineage takes center stage.
From the R32 to the R34, Ben explains what makes each generation special on the road and on the track. He doesn’t just rattle off specs — he feels what makes these machines icons. As he puts it, the R34’s balance and technology were ahead of their time, and the R32 was the car that “rewrote the rules.”
Why it matters to us: These cars aren’t just legends — they’re the reason this blog exists. Ben’s perspective validates decades of GT-R culture, especially here in the U.S. where import restrictions kept them out of reach for so long.
Fun highlight: Ben compares the R35’s power to a “sledgehammer wrapped in silk” — accurate.
📹 If you love JDM history, Nissan heritage, or just miss Top Gear’s golden era, this one is worth a watch.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
Built By Legends is the brainchild of Masa Kuji and Katsu Takahashi, two automotive visionaries driven by a lifelong passion for Japanese performance vehicles. Their innovative restomod project breathes new life into iconic ’80s and ’90s Japanese tuner cars, blending classic design with modern engineering. Having honed their expertise through the co-founding of GTChannel and Best Motoring International alongside Taro Koki, they bring a unique global perspective to their craft, bridging the gap between Japan’s rich tuning heritage and a worldwide audience.
Join us to listen to their incredible story on how they’re bringing Japanese classics to life for a new generation of enthusiasts.
00:00 Intro
00:25 Built By Legends cars at SEMA 2024
01:20 Built By Legends Restomod R34 Skyline
02:37 Working with Toray to customize the R34 Interior
04:25 The importance of showcasing partners in a project
04:50 Details of the Built By Legends Restomod R34 Skyline
05:22 What is Built By Legends?
07:15 Where does Katsu Takahashi’s style come from?
10:00 Masa Kuji’s history with Japanese cars
11:12 The story of Taro, Masa, and Katsu working together for the first time
13:20 The genesis of Best Motoring International
16:28 Creating automotive-related phone apps
17:52 Masa Kuji on founding Built By Legends
19:20 Is Built By Legends the Singer of Skylines?
22:51 Biggest challenges when building cars
23:54 What is the build process for Built By Legends?
26:48 Why does Built By Legends partner with Mines for engine development?
29:25 Other iconic cars Built By Legends is working on
30:20 Working with legendary Japanese tuners Spoon and Mines
35:25 The importance of social media for Built By Legends
38:40 Katsu Takahashi’s perspective on the current JDM scene
39:40 Built By Legends’ relationship with Top Rank Importers
40:40 What build has been the most meaningful thus far?
44:10 What advice would you give yourself at the beginning?
45:40 New projects for Built By Legends
47:35 The balance of innovation and restoration in a car build
48:12 Built By Legends schedule at SEMA 2024
49:42 The creative dive of Katsu Takahashi and Masa Kuiji
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
GT-R Festival has been the last few days, with the final day Sunday coming up today. We have been busy, with tons of people and cars coming through. With a super sticky track, lots of driveline carnage and other parts breakage.
Here is a protip from someone that was in the US Navy for 6 years, and around pro racing for 20 years.
BRING SPARES!!!!!
Do not leave it at the shop. Its better to have and not need vs need and not have.
In the Navy, everything has a backup. If you are out floating around the ocean you have to be your own support. For racing, if you travel thousands of miles, and spend tens of thousands of dollars to get somewhere, not having that part costs you a weekend. When we raced I brought 3-5 engines, 3-5 transmissions, and anything and everything else that would fit in the trailer. I would bring a entire spare car. I have had to use the spare car. I have had to borrow parts from street cars. If your shop doesn’t look like it was robbed, you didn’t load right.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
This isn’t your average Nissan. This 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) is a true JDM icon, ready to turn heads and ignite your passion for performance. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what makes this car special:
RB26dett OEM engine in a R34 GT-R for sale. This Skyline has a few upgraded parts.
Legendary Performance:
Powered by the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine, renowned for its power and tunability.
280 horsepower (wink, wink, nudge, nudge)
6-speed Getrag V160 manual transmission delivers a precise and engaging driving experience.
All-wheel drive ensures optimal grip and handling in all conditions.
Midnight Purple II USA legal JDM imported R34 wing
Head-Turning Style:
Midnight Purple II paint job, a coveted and iconic color for the R34 generation.
Right-hand drive (RHD) configuration, offering a unique and authentic JDM driving experience. (This may be a consideration for some drivers.)
Nismo upgrades elevate the aesthetics and potentially enhance performance:
Nismo intercooler improves engine cooling for sustained power.
Nismo LMGT4 wheels add a touch of racing heritage and lightweight design.
Nismo side skirts and rear spats create a more aggressive and aerodynamic profile.
A Collector’s Dream:
This car is over 25 years old, making it legal to import and register in the United States.
With its iconic status, well-maintained condition, and desirable modifications, this R34 could be a valuable addition to any car collection.
R34 GTR speedometer cluster is 180 km/hr. This MPII car has just 61,247 kilometers
Overall, this 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) is a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. With its legendary performance, captivating looks, and potential collector’s value, this JDM icon is sure to excite any driving enthusiast.
Imagine yourself in the cockpit of this R34 GT-R. Financing Available
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
➢LEGENDS MEDIA STORE: https://legends.media/ NEW R34 COLLECTION LIVE NOW!
Today is the day we’ve all been waiting for. I bought my R34 GTR 5 years ago and have been storing it in Japan ever since. We’ve gotten to experience what it’s REALLY like to have a car built in Japan. We’ve also had the pleasure of driving it all over the best roads and most famous anime roads. The r34 gtr has seen it all… today, it gets imported to America from Japan!
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
Group A R32 GT-R subframes and driveline. There are some special parts in here.
There are two subframes in a Nissan Skyline GT-R, the front and rear.
Front
The front subframe is the mounting point for the engine, the lower suspension arms, and the power steering rack.
Rear
The rear subframe is the mounting point for the rear differential, and the rear suspension. Other than the coil over itself top mounting point the rest of the mounting is on the subframe.
R33 GT-R – 55400-24U00 (shows as being unique, fits early and late)
1, R33/R34 or S14/15 subframe. (I used a R33 non-Hicas subframe, R34/S15 subframes have more gusseting, I also welded in a GKtech subframe reinforcing kit.)
2, Offset subframe bushes (I used the GKtech solid offset bushes, these mount the subframe up a lot higher which is better for roll centre and will require a little “massage” of the floor pan on the front on either side of the subframe, test fit the subframe before mounting the diff and arms on it…..all will become obvious)
3, R33/S14 lower suspension arms (you can still use the R32 arms but will need spacers/washers to pack out the difference on the inside mounts
4, R32 upper arms (I made the mistake of buying brand new R33 top arms thinking they would be required…..but they foul on the shocks)
5, Driveshaft Spacers (I used the GKtech 10mm ones. There is some differing thoughts as to whether these are required, but I figured if the R33 subframe is 10mm wider on either side then I would put them in to avoid damaging the CV joints)
6, R33/S14 Tie Rods and Bushes (If you are getting rid of the Hicas by going to a non-Hicas subframe like I did you will need these and something like a set of Whiteline bushes to replace the ball joints that are in the hubs for the Hicas tie rods)
7, R32 ARB (seems to still fit, the mounts are spaced a little further apart)
GK Tech Offset Subframe Bushings
The GKTECH Polyurethane subframe conversion bushes are a direct replacement of the standard items and allow you to fit an S14/S15 rear subframe in your S13/180sx, aswell as R33/R34 rear subframe in your R32. The Polyurethane bushes also ensure that movement of the subframe is kept to a minimum. They eliminate axle tramp whilst also raising the subframe which helps to correct the roll center on lowered vehicles.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
Group A R32 GT-R subframes and driveline. There are some special parts in here.
There are two subframes in a Nissan Skyline GT-R, the front and rear.
Front
The front subframe is the mounting point for the engine, the lower suspension arms, and the power steering rack.
Rear
The rear subframe is the mounting point for the rear differential, and the rear suspension. Other than the coil over itself top mounting point the rest of the mounting is on the subframe.
R33 GT-R – 55400-24U00 (shows as being unique, fits early and late)
1, R33/R34 or S14/15 subframe. (I used a R33 non-Hicas subframe, R34/S15 subframes have more gusseting, I also welded in a GKtech subframe reinforcing kit.)
2, Offset subframe bushes (I used the GKtech solid offset bushes, these mount the subframe up a lot higher which is better for roll centre and will require a little “massage” of the floor pan on the front on either side of the subframe, test fit the subframe before mounting the diff and arms on it…..all will become obvious)
3, R33/S14 lower suspension arms (you can still use the R32 arms but will need spacers/washers to pack out the difference on the inside mounts
4, R32 upper arms (I made the mistake of buying brand new R33 top arms thinking they would be required…..but they foul on the shocks)
5, Driveshaft Spacers (I used the GKtech 10mm ones. There is some differing thoughts as to whether these are required, but I figured if the R33 subframe is 10mm wider on either side then I would put them in to avoid damaging the CV joints)
6, R33/S14 Tie Rods and Bushes (If you are getting rid of the Hicas by going to a non-Hicas subframe like I did you will need these and something like a set of Whiteline bushes to replace the ball joints that are in the hubs for the Hicas tie rods)
7, R32 ARB (seems to still fit, the mounts are spaced a little further apart)
GK Tech Offset Subframe Bushings
The GKTECH Polyurethane subframe conversion bushes are a direct replacement of the standard items and allow you to fit an S14/S15 rear subframe in your S13/180sx, aswell as R33/R34 rear subframe in your R32. The Polyurethane bushes also ensure that movement of the subframe is kept to a minimum. They eliminate axle tramp whilst also raising the subframe which helps to correct the roll center on lowered vehicles.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R VSPEC Midnight purple II for sale at Toprank Importers
This is your chance to own a true legend, a bone-stock 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec bathed in the iconic Midnight Purple II paint. This right-hand drive (RHD) monster comes equipped with the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo engine and a precise 6-speed manual transmission.
Impeccable Pedigree:
Clean History: This meticulously maintained GT-R boasts a clean title and extensive service records dating back to 1999, showcasing its exceptional care. With only 109,638 kilometers (68,125 miles) on the odometer, it’s a true collector’s gem.
Unmodified Performance: Experience the pure, unadulterated thrill of the GT-R in its original form. This V-Spec is free from modifications, ensuring a true JDM driving experience.
Recent Maintenance:
This Skyline has just received a comprehensive servicing, including:
Engine oil change with high-quality WAKO’s Pro-S oil
Transmission and differential fluid changes
New coolant, brake fluid, and battery
Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and wiper blades replaced
Clutch overhaul, operating cylinder replacement, and timing belt service
Toprank Importers specializes in importing and selling JDM (Japanese domestic market) cars. From the range of legendary Nissan Skylines to iconic Toyota Chasers, vehicles over 25 years old are legal to import to the United States. We offer services including assistance with importing vehicles from other countries, Show or Display models, and race cars. This provides customers with a diverse range of options to choose from, catering to different preferences and needs in the automotive market.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more
1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R VSPEC Midnight purple II for sale at Toprank Importers
This is your chance to own a true legend, a bone-stock 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec bathed in the iconic Midnight Purple II paint. This right-hand drive (RHD) monster comes equipped with the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo engine and a precise 6-speed manual transmission.
Impeccable Pedigree:
Clean History: This meticulously maintained GT-R boasts a clean title and extensive service records dating back to 1999, showcasing its exceptional care. With only 109,638 kilometers (68,125 miles) on the odometer, it’s a true collector’s gem.
Unmodified Performance: Experience the pure, unadulterated thrill of the GT-R in its original form. This V-Spec is free from modifications, ensuring a true JDM driving experience.
Recent Maintenance:
This Skyline has just received a comprehensive servicing, including:
Engine oil change with high-quality WAKO’s Pro-S oil
Transmission and differential fluid changes
New coolant, brake fluid, and battery
Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and wiper blades replaced
Clutch overhaul, operating cylinder replacement, and timing belt service
Toprank Importers specializes in importing and selling JDM (Japanese domestic market) cars. From the range of legendary Nissan Skylines to iconic Toyota Chasers, vehicles over 25 years old are legal to import to the United States. We offer services including assistance with importing vehicles from other countries, Show or Display models, and race cars. This provides customers with a diverse range of options to choose from, catering to different preferences and needs in the automotive market.
Often specified as original equipment, NGK spark plugs are the best combination of performance and longevity. Offering the Quality, Reliability and Durability You'd Expect from an OEM Manufacturer NGK is the world's largest supplier of OEM spark plug… read more
The details interface only displays some car models. To view all car models, please click on the top of the interface"make sure this fits" Fitment1: Nissan 370Z Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest GT-R Altima 350Z Frontier|SL 2003-2024|SV 2009-2024|S 2004… read more
【OE Standard】Our spark plugs meet or exceed OE specifications for form, fit and function and are perfect for automotive replacement spark plugs.Quick and easy installation, excellent and reliable performance. Premium spark plug kits are a quick and e… read more