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Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Nissan's Skyline GT-R Was Motorsport's Godzilla. Now It's Becoming a Beast on the Collector Market.
From the postwar period to present, perhaps no nation of carmakers has made bolder strides or wielded greater influence on manufacturers and consumers alike than Japan. By the late 1960s, models like the Toyota 2000GT let the rest of the world know that Japanese marques were serious players in the sports-car segment. Nissan (Datsun in America) has long been a player, from the storied 510 sedan—a Trans-Am racing-series champ that battled BMW's 2002 and Alfa's GTV—to the popular 240Z and its successors. Meanwhile, from the 1980s, U.S. consumers were frequently denied the 'good stuff' from Japan that simply never came stateside due to complicated DOT and EPA regulations, which made it unprofitable to bring that era's most exciting cars—especially the Nissan Skyline GT-R—to the United States. More from Robb Report This One-of-a-Kind 1924 Bugatti-Diatto Could Fetch $1.3 Million at Auction This Ford GT Supercar Is an Ode to the Marque's Historic 1966 Le Mans Win. Now It's up for Grabs. Pre-Owned Watch Sales Spiked by 160% in April Ahead of Trump's Potential Tariffs The Skyline GT-R (Grand Turismo-Racing) has a long history as Nissan's crown jewel. The first series was a successful touring car, of which only 1,945 were made from 1969 to 1972. The second generation of the model saw only 197 units produced in 1973. It would be 16 years before the third-generation GT-R surfaced in 1989. That all-new Skyline, called the R32, had a healthy run, and almost 44,000 examples were built through 1994. With a 2.6-liter, twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and all-wheel drive, the R32 iteration became a formidable motorsport competitor from the outset. The engine develops 276 hp in street trim, but tuners could extract twice as much. That car earned the nickname 'Godzilla' from the Australian motoring press, as it claimed repeated victories in touring-car championships in Japan and around the world. This dominance frustrated international enthusiasts, as the Skyline was a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) rarity sold only in Japan and a few Pacific Rim regions such as Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. But in 2014, the first R32 models could finally be imported into the U.S. through a federal rule that allows non-compliant cars that are 25 years and older to be brought stateside. An eager market opened up, making the Skyline an instant collectible. The fourth generation of Skyline GT-R was the R33, with 16,668 produced from 1995 to 1998. It featured evolutionary improvements, although the engine was nearly identical to its predecessor. Special editions like the 1996 Nismo 400R produced 400 hp and are top collectibles within the R33 series. The fifth and final generation of the Skyline GT-R was the R34, made from 1999 to 2002 in a run of 11,578 units, with a variety of specifications and special series along the way. The last of these—the Skyline GT-R M-Spec Nür (short for Nürburgring), is the most desirable of them all. With only 1,003 made, examples are valued closer to $500,000 than not. It's human nature to covet what can't be had. But now that the Skyline GT-R—made only in right-hand drive—is more readily available, it will take a little getting used to piloting on North American roads, as will shifting with one's left hand. As to which model to choose, budget will be the determining factor. Prices range from $60,000 for good-condition cars to five times as much for concours special editions, but $100,000 should buy an excellent example of the base model. To really get acquainted with the model, enthusiast groups are the best place to start learning the ins and outs of Godzilla of Robb Report The 2024 Chevy C8 Corvette: Everything We Know About the Powerful Mid-Engine Beast The World's Best Superyacht Shipyards The ABCs of Chartering a Yacht Click here to read the full article.
Yahoo
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Stunning Italian Sports Cars That Turn Heads and Burn Rubber
Growing up with the original Top Gear, my brain was hardwired to love Italian car brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Alfa Romeo — thanks, Jeremy Clarkson. To me, these Italian machines aren't just cars, they're moving poetry capable of immense speeds and stirring emotions in ways few others can. Whereas German cars are all about precision and American ones about brute force, the Italians build cars that evoke emotion, flaws, and all. Today, we're highlighting some of the most gorgeous Italian sports cars from the 21st century. These Italian sports cars exemplify the fusion of design excellence and engineering prowess, each offering a unique driving experience that captivates enthusiasts worldwide. All the facts and figures are sourced from the manufacturers unless stated otherwise, and models are ranked from oldest to newest. This list is purely subjective and based on my personal preferences. Italian car lovers are a passionate bunch, and we're right there with you. If your personal favorite isn't listed here, it's not because it doesn't deserve a spot; it's just because narrowing down decades of gorgeous Italian engineering into one list is nearly impossible. But hey, maybe that just means we need to make a Part 2. Even after two decades, the Ferrari Enzo remains a masterpiece. Inspired by Formula 1, its sharp, angular body features subtle curves and strategic air intakes that not only serve an aerodynamic purpose but also an aesthetic one. The cherry on the cake, however, was its mid-mounted 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 650 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. Road and Track clocked a 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. So, it doesn't just look and sound spectacular, it performs that way, too. The Murcielago was Lamborghini's first V12-powered supercar under Volkswagen Group ownership. Named after a legendary Spanish fighting bull and the Spanish word for 'bat,' it even made a cameo as Bruce Wayne's ride in The Dark Knight trilogy. The naturally aspirated V12 is a showstopper, but the real highlight is its aggressive yet elegant design. My favorite part is its air intakes, which open up like a bat spreading its wings. If for some reason the standard Murcielago is a tad too tame for your liking, Lamborghini made a few different variants, including an open-top Roadster and the limited-edition LP670-4 SuperVeloce. Pagani has produced numerous iterations of the Zonda since its late-'90s debut, but few are as breathtaking as the Zonda Roadster F. Its extensive use of exposed carbon fiber isn't just for weight savings — it gives the car an unmistakable one-of-a-kind look. With bug-eyed headlights and a signature quad-tipped exhaust, the Zonda Roadster F is both futuristic and timeless. Power comes from an AMG-derived V12 paired with a six-speed manual transmission, both proudly displayed since the engine bay has a transparent panel, and the transmission is completely bare in the cockpit. In 2008, the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione won 'Best Design of The Year,' and it's easy to see why. With its flowing lines, soulful headlights, traditional Alfa wheels, and short rear overhang, the 8C is pure automotive art. It's not just a pretty face, though. Under its hood, there's a Ferrari-built V8 engine that sounds almost angelic. Sadly, no Alfa that followed has managed to replicate its beauty — not even its bite-sized spiritual successor, the Alfa Romeo 4C. The Ferrari 458 isn't just one of the best-looking Ferraris of the modern era — it might be the best Ferrari to date, period. Its mid-mounted 4.5-liter V8 engine, a very similar engine used in the aforementioned 8C, revs up to 9,000 rpm and pushes 562 hp. The 458's design was so influential that it set the standard for the Ferraris that followed. Its successors, the 488 GTB and F8 Tributo, tried to emulate it, but never quite captured the same magic. If, for whatever reason, the 458 Italia is too subtle for you, you might fall in love with the roofless 458 Spider or the over-the-top 458 Speciale. It's hard to believe the Lambo Aventador is already 14 years old — it looks like it came out just yesterday. I remember a time when my friends and I all had the same wallpaper on our phones: A bright orange Aventador with black wheels. Normally, I'm not a fan of black wheels, but on that car, they just worked. The Aventador also marks the last time Lamborghini used a V12 engine without the help of any electric motors. And if the original Aventador coupe isn't outlandish enough, you might prefer the SVJ or Ultimae Roadster that came after it. Not long after the 458's debut, Ferrari introduced the F12berlinetta, a V12-powered grand tourer with an intoxicating blend of power and elegance. Its successor, the 812 Superfast, may be more powerful, but the F12 feels more refined, polished, and less aggressive — qualities that add to its beauty. But don't let its beauty fool you. It's still capable of 211 mph thanks to its 730-hp 6.3-liter V12, which has an 8,700-rpm redline. It also holds a special place in Ferrari's history as the last Pininfarina-designed model, which could make it a future collector's item. The 124 Spider proved that you don't need a lot of power to have fun in a stunning Italian sports car. And in Abarth trim, with its Record Monza exhaust, it sounds the part, too. Top Gear reports that the 124 shares its underpinnings with the ND-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata, but comes with a different engine. Instead of a naturally aspirated four-cylinder, the Abarth 124 uses Fiat's own 164-hp 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo-four. According to Kelley Blue Book, you can pick up a used Abarth 124 for as little as $13,500 — a bargain for an Italian roadster. Based on the Aventador, the Countach LPI 800-4 is Lamborghini's way of celebrating the original Countach's 50th birthday. Somehow, they managed to resurrect an icon without trampling its grave. Only 112 examples of the revived Countach were ever made, each fitted with scissor doors and a naturally aspirated V12 engine — just like the classic Countach. The 6.5-liter V12 borrowed from the Aventador produces 803 hp in combination with electric motor and gives the modern Countach a 220-mph top speed. Lamborghini isn't the only brand bringing beloved models back from the dead. Alfa Romeo reimagined the legendary 33 Stradale for the modern era, blending retro styling with futuristic elements. While it retains the silhouette and butterfly doors of its ancestor, the new 33 Stradale features modern tech and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that sounds like it belongs in an orchestra. Few cars manage to pull off nostalgic and forward-thinking like the 33 Stradale. Adrian Padeanu from Motor1 claims that buyers can get the new 33 Stradale in fully electric version as well which is even more powerful with 750 hp. Earlier this year, a 2023 Maserati MC20 sold for $168,000 on Bring a Trailer — approximately $60,000 less than its original MSRP. Sure, buying a new one might be a terrible financial decision, but with a face like that, I can think of a thousand reasons why I'd stomach the depreciation. The MC20 has doors that go up, an F1-inspired twin-turbocharged V6 that sits behind the driver, and a simple, modern cockpit. Maserati even offers a topless version, the MC20 Cielo, which takes everything great about the coupe and makes it even more dramatic. Inspired by the 1952 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52, the modern Disco Volante is a bespoke masterpiece crafted by Touring Superleggera. Based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, it features a hand-formed aluminum and carbon fiber body that exudes elegance and aerodynamic prowess. Under the hood lies a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 450 hp, enabling a 0–62 mph sprint in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 181 mph. Each unit requires over 4,000 hours to build, emphasizing its exclusivity and artisanal craftsmanship. The TZ3 Stradale is a unique fusion of Italian design and American muscle. Designed by Zagato, it boasts a carbon-fiber body with classic curves and aggressive lines. Beneath its sculpted exterior lies an 8.4-liter V10 engine from the Dodge Viper ACR-X, delivering 600 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, according to Classic Driver. With only nine units produced, the TZ3 Stradale is a rare collector's gem that combines heritage with high performance. As per Dan Trent at Pistonheads, the GranTurismo MC Stradale is currently Maserati's most track-focused road car. Its design features aggressive aerodynamics, including a front splitter and rear spoiler, enhancing both aesthetics and performance. Powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 460 hp, it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. The MC Stradale's lightweight construction and sport-tuned suspension make it a thrilling drive on both road and track. The 599 GTO is a limited-edition Ferrari that combines luxury with race-bred performance. Its design includes aerodynamic enhancements like a front splitter and rear diffuser, contributing to its aggressive stance. Under the hood, a 6.0-liter V12 engine delivers 661 hp, propelling the car from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.3 seconds. With only 599 units produced, the 599 GTO is a coveted masterpiece among Ferrari enthusiasts. The Reventón is one of Lamborghini's most exclusive models, with only 20 coupes produced. Its stealth fighter-inspired design features sharp angles and a matte gray finish, making it a visual spectacle. Powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 650 hp, it achieves 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds. The Reventón's combination of radical design and performance cements its status as an automotive icon. The Huayra is a hypercar that showcases Pagani's commitment to art and engineering. Its flowing lines and active aerodynamics create a dynamic and elegant appearance. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine from AMG, it produces 720 hp and reaches 62 mph in 3.2 seconds. The Huayra's meticulous craftsmanship and performance make it a standout in the world of supercars. The F430 Scuderia is a track-focused evolution of the F430, emphasizing lightweight construction and performance. Its design includes carbon fiber components and a more aggressive front fascia. The 4.3-liter V8 engine produces 503 hp, enabling a 0 to 62 mph time of 3.6 seconds. With its razor-sharp handling and raw driving experience, the Scuderia is a favorite among purists. As reported by AutoEvolution, the 4C is a compact sports car that embodies Alfa Romeo's design philosophy, and it was built to duke it out with the Porsche Cayman and Lotus Elise. Its sleek, aerodynamic body is constructed from carbon fiber, resulting in a lightweight chassis. Powered by a 1.75-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 240 hp, it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. The 4C's minimalist interior and responsive handling offer an unfiltered driving experience. The Lancia Stratos HF is a rally-bred Italian exotic that looks like it came from outer space. Designed by Bertone, its wedge-shaped body and ultra-short wheelbase gave it a distinctive, purposeful stance. The cockpit-forward layout, wraparound windshield, and bold wheel arches ensured that it's unlike anything else on the road. Under the clamshell rear sat a mid-mounted 2.4-liter Ferrari V6 from the Dino, producing up to 190 hp in road trim, but much more in rally spec. Agile, ferocious, and impossibly cool, the Stratos wasn't just built to turn heads; it was created to dominate rally stages and steal hearts. Even when standing still, Italian sports cars evoke emotion, and when you're behind the wheel of one, they remind you that cars aren't just for getting from A to B. While other manufacturers strive for perfection, Italian sports cars embrace passion, drama, and sometimes a hint of madness. Whether you're team Testarossa, still swooning over the Lancia Delta Integrale, or think the Ferrari Dino is the most beautiful car ever made (you might be right), we see you. And who knows? Maybe your dream machine will show up in the next roundup. Either way, we're all here for the same reason: because Italian sports cars aren't just cars: they're stories on wheels. The cars on this list prove that beauty in the automotive world is far from dead — you just have to know where to look.
