Older generations of the Nissan GT-R are becoming increasingly popular in the used car market but that didn’t stop YouTuber Adam LZ from using an R32 for his latest project. The Japanese model received a custom suspension, off-road goodies, and a modified powertrain, transforming into a “Safari GTR”.

Everything started from the neglected shell of a JDM-spec donor vehicle that came without an engine, making it a great candidate for unconventional mods. The process allegedly took less than 3 weeks, which is surprisingly fast for the amount of work required for a conversion like this. The resulting vehicle is similar in style to Nissan’s own Safari Rally Z Tribute, and will probably go further on dirt roads than any other GT-R has ever been.

More: This Japanese Shop Is The World’s Top Destination For Restoring Nissan GT-Rs

Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle
Nissan R32 GT-R Looks Surprisingly Cool As A Safari Vehicle

Photos: Adam LZ / Facebook

The highlight of the Safari GTR is the notable increase in ground clearance compared to the stock R32. This is mostly attributed to a custom long travel suspension which is more resilient in absorbing bumps. The Nitto Nomad Grappler tires (215/65R17) wrapped around the 17-inch wheels are also crucial for improving traction on slippery surfaces and making the R32 more comfortable when driving off the beaten track.

Due to the lack of roof rails, the Nismo-branded roof rack with integrated lights had to be permanently cut into the roof of the R32, which is a small price to pay for the extra practicality and the safari looks. The front bumper is protected by a custom bash bar with extra LEDs, while the rest of the bodywork is largely unchanged. The Supergloss Olive Green wrap makes the R32 look fresh and ready for adventure, with the WRX mud flaps adding to the rally-spec charisma.

Last but not least, the RB26 powertrain has been upgraded with a Garrett GTX3576 Gen 2 turbocharger, a tweaked ECU by Monster Performance, a PWR intercooler, and more parts, resulting in an output 500 hp (368 kW / 507 PS) measured at the wheels. Furthermore, the selectable 4WD system means you can have some RWD fun when you don’t need all-wheel-drive traction.

Adam LZ didn’t waste any time and took his Safari GTR to the test, driving it flat out on dirt roads and enjoying the benefits of the lifted suspension. The next step is to add an even longer travel suspension, improve the brakes, and maybe add a snorkel which would allow the engine to breathe when driving through big puddles. Overall, it seems that the modified R32 will be enjoyed to the fullest, justifying the cost of the modifications.