Photos: Tiby Gherasim
The Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R “Hakosuka” is one of the most iconic cars in the history of Japanese automotive culture. It was produced from 1969 to 1972, and only 1,132 units were ever built.
Hirota-san is the proud owner of this 1972 Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R “Hakosuka”. He bought the car six years ago, and it is still in its original color, which he says is very close to his previous ride – a Millennium Jade Nissan R34 GT-R V-Spec 2 Nur. He has not seen this same color on other cars, making his Hakosuka even more unique.
The Hakosuka is characterized by its boxy shape, distinctive front grille, and powerful S20 inline-six engine.
The modifications to Hirota-san’s Hakosuka are not just cosmetic. The car features a dry carbon hood that weighs only 3.8 kg, compared to the stock weight of 12 kg. The hood is signed by Keiichi Tsuchiya, better known as the “Drift King”.
The engine has been fully overhauled, with the bottom part all OEM and the top modified. The cylinder head is ported, and the carburetor has been changed to the Nismo version of Solex units. The carburetor inlets are custom-made titanium, and the exhaust manifold and muffler are titanium all the way to the back. The radiator is also aftermarket from Koyorad, while the oil cooler is a Trust GReddy unit.
Although the current motor redlines at 9,000rpm, he has plants for further changes to bring it up to 12,000 in the future.
One of the first things that catches the eye about Hirota-san’s Hakosuka is the 15-inch RS Watanabe Magnesium wheels. These are a departure from the 14-inch aluminum or steel wheels that came as standard on the Hakosuka.
The front brakes are Brembo’s from a Lotus, while the rear is stock. The car weighs around 1,100 kg, making it relatively lightweight.
The suspension on the Hakosuka are OEM that have been rebuilt with the stock spring ratios. While many people lower their Hakosukas, Hirota-san enjoys the OEM comfort and has no plans to change it anytime soon.
As you spend hours inspecting the Hakosuka, you begin to develop an appreciation for its design elements and the elegant curves that make it a true work of art. The flawless and uncomplicated design is a tribute to Nissan’s design team and their remarkable talent in crafting a masterpiece many years ago. The Hakosuka’s rarity and iconic status have cemented its place as a legend that will undoubtedly be cherished by enthusiasts for years to come.
