Straight from the Factory 1972 Nissan Skyline Rocket Bunny Turbo Build

2.8L L28 Turbo Inline-Six with 3 Cabs

Although the R32, R33 and R34 Skylines are highly acclaimed, their earlier counterparts provide equal levels of thrill and excitement. This is clearly visible in the instance of this customized Nissan Skyline Rocket Bunny by Nicole Johnson; which featured on her YouTube channel, ‘Detour’.

Roy de Guzman, a retired US Air Force serviceman, is the proud proprietor of this authentic 1972 Nissan Skyline. Although he was not fortunate enough to acquire the uncommon first-generation GT-R (a figure close to two thousand produce units were made), he has nonetheless fitted it with supplementary components in order to achieve a more dynamic and menacing look for his non-GT-R variant.

Roy was previously unaware of the iconic Hakosuka GT-R until he got an invitation from Dino Dalle Carbonare, a noted YouTuber and Japanese domestic market enthusiast. Attending the Nismo Festival 2005 at Fuji Speedway, it did not take long for Roy to become enchanted with the Skyline upon witnessing one take to the race track.

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Ever since, Roy had been set on obtaining a Skyline 2000GT. His endeavor came to fruition in Japan and by chance, this vehicle was right-hand drive. Additionally Rocket Bunny provided it with a widebody kit personalized by him. To ensure maximum aesthetic effect of the low stance, he altered some of the wheel wells and mounted 15-inch Watanabe R-Series 8-spoke wheels with Toyo Proxes R888R tires and incorporated substantial negative camber.

The interior is absolutely remarkable, fitted with Razo pedals, a Nismo shift knob, and a caloric gauge holder inspired by the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX. Additionally, a Momo steering wheel styled similarly to the classic Skyline GT-R wheel has also been included.

For an exhilarating drive, Roy opted for a 2.8-liter L28 inline-six motor to substitute the stock L20 engine. At that time, this mill was utilized by burly automobiles like the Nissan Patrol. Besides the enlarged powerplant, the builder also managed to cram three carburetors fitted with an SK Racing inlet manifold, a Garrett AiResearch turbocharger, and a Cartech intercooler into the cramped engine compartment.

Further enhancements are embodied in the shape of a strut brace, Japanese-manufactured M Speed suspension system, reconfigured engine parts and an HKS blow off valve.

This time-honored Nissan Skyline may not bring the GT-R label with it, however, it is always esteemed as one of the most hung after Japanese Domestic Market sports automobiles. Owing to the lacking presence of the Skyline designation, the current R35 GT-R would have never come into being.