Built By Legends Introduces a 650-HP Reimagined R34 Skyline GT-R

For the first time, this masterpiece is available in the U.S. market following the expiration of the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act. Enthusiasts who have long awaited the chance to drive a Skyline GT-R can now experience this urban street fighter, renowned for its nimble handling, balanced power, and lightweight engineering.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection, Built By Legends (BBL) has an unparalleled understanding of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles like the GT-R. Founded to produce world-class Japanese vehicles in collaboration with legendary Japanese tuners and racers, BBL blends traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art techniques and top-quality materials. Their goal is to restore and modernize iconic Skylines from the 1980s and 1990s, delivering thrilling drivability while appealing to purists.

"When we founded Built By Legends, we aimed to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world uniquely," says CEO and Co-Founder Masaharu Kuji. "With the vintage Skyline now legal in North America, the timing was perfect. Many GT-Rs exported from Japan are in poor condition, and proper restoration services are rare outside Japan. Built By Legends fills this void, offering enthusiasts the best classic Skyline GT-R with modernized internals."

The Heart of the R34

Firmly established in pop culture through movies and video games, the R34 Skyline remains one of the most sought-after JDM cars. Each Built By Legends R34 GT-R features a powerful 650-hp MINE’S MB7 engine built on a 24U N1 engine block, paired with a 6-speed Getrag heavy-duty transmission. This balanced powertrain is managed by the MINE’S VX-ROM ECU system, complemented by a MINE’S Carbon Air Intake Duct, Fuel Delivery pipe, and R35-transplanted Airflow Meter and Injectors. The engine room showcases BBL's attention to detail with color, material finish, and machined accents.

The meticulous fitting process begins with a partnership with Japanese Skyline specialist Garage Yoshida. Yoshida’s team measures each donor vehicle’s frame and chassis, exceeding Nissan’s original production tolerances. Donor cars receive reinforced strut panels, cowl top braces, and OEM hood ridge panels to minimize chassis movement and enhance suspension performance. Each chassis undergoes a detailed media blasting, powder coating, and a multi-layered paint process, finished in BBL’s Signature Navy and Shiranami White Pearl.

From Chassis to Cockpit

To further enhance the R34’s rigidity, BBL employs a comprehensive 400-point spot welding program and completely refreshes the suspension with Aragosta components selected by MINE’S. The car features a race-ready braking system from AP Racing, with 6-pot calipers and 356mm rotors in the front, and 4-pot calipers in the rear.

BBL’s focus on lightweight and aerodynamics is evident in their dry carbon front bumper and bonnet, designed to improve airflow and evoke period racing modifications. The exterior also features a range of MINE’S dry carbon aero components, including a Chin Spoiler, Rear Spoiler, Rear Diffuser, and Aero Mirrors. A handmade titanium MINE’S emblem on the trunk lid and interior dashboard signifies the depth of BBL's collaboration with MINE’S.

Inside, the R34 boasts original seats restored in black Fuji Ultrasuede fabric, matching the roof liner, dashboard, and interior panels. The cockpit features a MINE’S D-Shape steering wheel finished in Nappa leather and Alcantara, with matching handbrake and aluminum racing pedals. Sound and heat reduction sheets developed with Garage Yoshida enhance driving comfort, while the MINE’S special 320km meter and dials add a touch of high-performance flair.

Ready for the Road

The first Built By Legends R34 Skyline stands out with its Signature Navy underbody and Shiranami White Pearl details. Period-correct custom Rays 21A wheels with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza tires complete the car’s stunning look. Built By Legends offers extensive customization options, allowing clients to retain the vehicle’s original appearance or implement performance upgrades for a modern driving experience. Commission prices start at $450,000, not including the donor car, with a build and restoration process completed in under 12 months and worldwide shipment available.

"We are committed to preserving the integrity of the GT-R while providing modern upgrades for today's driving conditions," Kuji continues. "Our reimagined R34 Skyline GT-R represents the finest blend of classic style and modern performance available in the world today."

Built By Legends continues to redefine what it means to drive a classic JDM icon, offering enthusiasts the ultimate Skyline experience through meticulous restoration and thoughtful modernization.