The Car I Longed For

The GT-R is a sports car that Japan takes pride in. Its second generation, the Nissan Skyline GT-R remains popular around the world today, 40 years after its debut.
Among this second generation, the BNR34 stands out as the most popular model.
Based on the BNR34, Tommykaira, based in Kyoto, sold this car as a complete car - the Tommykaira R series.

In the snowy Tohoku region, we encountered the Tommykaira R-Z, a custom complete car based on the BNR34, by Tommykaira.
In August 1988, the first generation of the second generation of the GT-R was released, as a completely new package equipped with a powerful 2.6-liter inline 6-cylinder DOHC turbo RB26DETT engine, ATTESA E-TS 4WD electronic torque split, and Super HICAS four-wheel steering system. In addition to its high racing potential, the GT-R, which was revived after 16 years, was a favorite as a tuning car base, and thus took Japan by storm.
The successor model, the BCNR33, was released in 1995.
Then, in 1999, the final version of the second generation Skyline, the BNR34, was introduced.
Compared to the BCNR33, which had grown in size, the BNR34 saw the wheelbase shortened by 55 mm and the overall length decreased by 75 mm, which offered high torsional rigidity and excellent aerodynamic performance. Its styling, with a more muscular and full-bodied appearance compared to the previous models, still enjoys immense popularity today.
Tommykaira applied their tuning expertise to the Skyline range, first with the seventh generation Skyline, the R31. In 1987, they produced and sold the first-ever certified tuner car in Japan, the M20. Building on this experience, in 1995, they created the fully original Tommykaira ZZ. The quality of their work was highly regarded both in Japan and abroad.
The Tommykaira R series, based on the BNR34, was available as three main models: the R with 365 hp, the R-S with 420 hp, and the R-Z with 530 hp. Each model could also be built on a V·Spec base.
The engine, suspension, and interior all received a great deal of attention, and bold updates were made to the exterior.
Particularly distinctive are the flared front blister fenders, which widen the body without disrupting the original lines, the dramatically enlarged front grille, and the triple-blade rear wing, which emphasize the car's performance spirit.
The current owner is one of those who were captivated by the "hardcore styling and power that should have been what it was meant to be", in Tommykaira's words. After seeing the car in a magazine, he became determined to own a Tommykaira R series. Naturally, he wanted the top-of-the-line model, but only a few dozen were ever produced. The owner happened upon one for sale and didn’t hesitate. What would life be like with your dream car?
“I hardly drive it, except for vehicle inspections and maintenance. I’ve had it for 15 years, and there’s only 2,000 km on the odometer.”
The car was born to drive, yet the opportunities to drive it in the Tohoku region were limited, with ideal weather conditions few and far between. Still, the fact that the owner kept the car regularly serviced and the valid registration shows the owner’s commitment to always being prepared.