- Restomod company Built By Legends just introduced a new version of the R34 Skyline GT-R.
- It makes 650hp, comes with a manual gearbox, and 400 additional welds to improve bracing.
- This detailed restomod appears to come with hypercar levels of craftsmanship.
The Nissan Skyline GT-R is a legend in its own right, with the R34 generation often hailed as the pinnacle of this legacy. A Japanese company, renowned for its faithful R32 and R33 restomods, has introduced a new offering: a fully restored and modernized R34, equipped with a MINES engine delivering 650 horsepower (484 kW) and a six-speed manual gearbox. Be prepared to spend upwards of $450,000.
The company in question is aptly named Built By Legends. Its CEO & Co-Founder Masaharu Kuji says “Our goal is to bring out the true potential of the GT-R as a driver’s car and to deliver a world-class driving experience. Our new Built By Legends R34 GT-R represents our relentless commitment to excellence.” Sure, that’s somewhat superfluous PR speak, but listening to the details makes it a bit more believable.
Read: Nissan Ending GT-R R35 Production For America
The drivetrain is the heart of his beast and consists of a MINE’S MB7 engine mated to a Getrag heavy-duty six-speed manual gearbox. As it should be, the final car leverages all-wheel drive just like the original. This isn’t just a high-end motor swap into a donor car though. The beginning of the unfitting process includes a 108-point 3D alignment test before reinforcing the structure.
That includes adding stiffer strut panels, a cowl top brace, and OEM hood ridge panels. The team wet blasts the entire car, adds anti-rust epoxy and adds a two-tone chassis paint color of the customer’s choosing. It also adds 400 structure spot welds to improve rigidity and stiffness. It doesn’t stop there either.
Every car gets new suspension parts, new bearings, upgraded AP Racing brakes, and carbon fiber body panels to save weight. Of course, should a customer simply want to restore their car, that’s plausible too. Built By Legends says that customers can request a blend of old and new-school parts as well.
Keep in mind though that the $450,000 price tag for a full build and restoration doesn’t include the donor car itself. Few cars can garner this sort of price tag. It’s arguably worth it in this case though.
