Nissan Skyline X (R34) 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp)

The Nissan Skyline X (R34) 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp): A JDM Icon

The Nissan Skyline X (R34) represents the tenth generation of the revered Nissan Skyline lineage, a nameplate synonymous with performance and engineering excellence in Japan and, increasingly, worldwide. Produced from 1998 to 2001, this particular variant, the 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp) sedan, offered a compelling blend of executive comfort, robust performance, and advanced all-wheel-drive technology. While its more famous sibling, the GT-R, garnered global supercar status, the standard R34 Skyline models, including this 2.5-liter iteration, were the backbone of the series, providing a sophisticated and engaging driving experience for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). This generation continued Nissan’s tradition of offering a wide array of Skyline variants, catering to different segments while retaining the core DNA of the legendary nameplate.

Engine and Performance of the Nissan Skyline X (R34)

At the heart of the Nissan Skyline X (R34) 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp) lies the venerable RB25DE engine, a naturally aspirated inline-six powerplant renowned for its smooth operation and reliability. This 2.5-liter (2499 cm³ or 152.5 cubic inches) engine features a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with 24 valves, meaning four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. With a compression ratio of 10:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the RB25DE delivers a respectable 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 188.08 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. This power output, combined with the engine’s inherent balance, provided a refined yet spirited driving experience, characteristic of Nissan’s inline-six offerings.

Power is channeled to all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, a setup that emphasizes driver engagement and control. The all-wheel-drive system, likely Nissan’s advanced ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain with Electronic Torque Split), offered superior traction and stability, particularly in varying road conditions, making the sedan a confident performer. The vehicle’s top speed was electronically limited to 111.85 mph (180 km/h), a common practice for JDM vehicles of the era. Fuel economy figures for this model were rated at approximately 15.7 US mpg in urban driving conditions and a more efficient 26.1 US mpg on the highway, reflecting a balance between performance and daily usability for its time. With a curb weight of 3262.84 lbs. (1480 kg), the power-to-weight ratio stood at 7.4 kg per horsepower, or 135.1 horsepower per ton, indicating a responsive chassis for its class.

Design and Features

The Nissan Skyline X (R34) 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp) is presented in a practical and stylish four-door sedan body type, designed to comfortably accommodate five occupants. The R34 generation’s design language was an evolution of its predecessors, featuring sharper lines and a more aggressive stance than the R33, yet maintaining a sophisticated profile distinct from the more extreme GT-R variants. Its dimensions—185.83 inches (4720 mm) in length, 67.72 inches (1720 mm) in width, and 54.13 inches (1375 mm) in height—contributed to a balanced and purposeful aesthetic. The wheelbase of 104.92 inches (2665 mm) ensured a stable ride and adequate interior space.

Inside, the Skyline R34 sedan offered a well-appointed cabin, focusing on ergonomics and driver-centric design. While not as overtly sporting as the GT-R’s interior, it provided a comfortable and functional environment for both daily commuting and longer journeys. The trunk capacity of 14.94 cubic feet (423 liters) offered practical storage for luggage or groceries, further enhancing its appeal as a versatile executive sedan. Key features included power steering with a hydraulic rack and pinion system, ensuring precise and communicative handling. The braking system comprised ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control during emergency stops. The vehicle rode on 205/55 R16 tires, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort, supported by coil spring suspension at both the front and rear.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Nissan Skyline X (R34)

The Nissan Skyline X (R34) 2.5 i 24V 4WD (200 Hp) holds a significant place in automotive history, particularly within the Japanese Domestic Market. While often overshadowed by the legendary GT-R variants, the standard R34 sedans and coupes were critical to the Skyline’s enduring appeal. This specific 2.5-liter, all-wheel-drive sedan represented a sweet spot for many Japanese consumers, offering a blend of daily practicality, executive comfort, and the undeniable performance heritage of the Skyline name. It competed with other popular JDM executive sports sedans of its time, such as the Toyota Chaser, Mark II, and the Subaru Legacy B4, distinguishing itself with its iconic RB-series inline-six engine and sophisticated ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system.

The R34 generation, including the 2.5 i 24V 4WD, is celebrated for its robust engineering and timeless design. Its reputation for reliability and tunable potential has made it a favorite among enthusiasts. As a JDM-only model for decades, the R34 Skyline, in all its forms, gained a “forbidden fruit” status in markets like the United States. With the passing of import restrictions under the 25-year rule, these vehicles, including the more accessible sedan variants, have begun making their way to American shores, becoming highly sought-after modern classics. This influx has further cemented the R34 Skyline’s legacy as a paragon of late 20th-century Japanese automotive innovation, embodying a period when manufacturers prioritized mechanical integrity and driver engagement. The 2.5 i 24V 4WD sedan, with its blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability, stands as a testament to the comprehensive engineering prowess of Nissan during the R34 era.