1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R - PSI Perfection
Portland Speed Industries Has Finally Unleashed Its Jaw-Dropping R34 Skyline GT-R As Proof Of The Company’s Tuning Philosophy.
By David Pratte, Photography by Nick Parker
Although they haven’t had a chance to retune for ethanol, with a tank full of E85 PSI expects to see about 650 whp out of their Skyline’s RB26DETT engine, and with E98 another 25 whp is expected. And just to reinforce those stereotypes introduced earlier, it does seem strangely fitting that a speed shop in an eco-conscious state like Oregon would be doing innovative work with a bio-fuel like ethanol. Apparently, you can go fast and hug Mother Earth a little at the same time. Who knew?
Aesthetically, PSI put its own touch on the R34’s exterior by having HRE make a custom set of C20 19x11-inch forged wheels with a polished lip and brushed aluminum centers. Amazingly, these seriously wide pieces of rolling jewelry fit perfectly within the confines of the stock GT-R fenders, allowing Pirelli Pzero 295/30ZR19s to clear without any rubbing. With a set of mammoth 8-piston front and 4-piston rear Brembo F50 brakes tucked inside the HREs and SilkRoad coilovers completing the stance, PSI has put together what is arguably the finest-looking R34 to be found anywhere on American soil.
Inside there’s been just as much attention to detail, starting with a matching pair of Status Racing Laguna carbon-fiber buckets that Status custom-wrapped in gray suede. PSI also had Bishop Customs work its suede-wrapping magic in gray and black throughout the rest of the interior, including the rear seats, door panels and trunk, as well as installing carbon-fiber overlays for the center console, instrument cluster, audio console, door switch panels, interior dome light console and A- and B-pillars. Overall, the interior now has a very rich and elegant appearance, yet still maintains a decidedly performance-oriented feel thanks to the Momo Commando-R steering wheel and Nismo titanium shift knob.
With the makeover of PSI’s R34 Skyline GT-R completed, Jason described the driving experience as, “Totally transformed from a stock R34 GT-R. Stock, this car feels sort of like an AWD Toyota Supra—from its power delivery to its engine note. But now our GT-R just takes off when it hits full spool at around 3800 rpm and pulls like a train to redline. And it feels really stable at high speeds; 120 mph feels like 60 mph. Adjusting to driving on the right-hand side is no big deal, with the only confusing part being that the turn signal and windshield wiper levers are on the opposite sides of the steering column compared to a left-hand-drive car.”
Now that their masterpiece of a GT-R is complete, the PSI crew plans to just enjoy driving their Skyline and taking it to local shows as a way of promoting their shop. Given its super clean and subtly aggressive exterior styling, its impressive power and innovative ethanol fueling, it’s easy to see how this perfect piece of PSI tuning will attract many new and discerning customers. But the question remains, Is it possible to heel and toe downshift while wearing hemp sandals?
By David Pratte
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