‘Fast and Furious’ Skyline GT-R sets auction record
The record price for a Nissan Skyline GT-R sold at auction has been reset, following the sale of a very special example this May that was not only driven by Paul Walker in Fast and Furious, the fourth instalment of the Fast & Furious movie franchise, but also customised to the late actor’s request.
As previously reported by JUST CARS, the 2000-model R34 Skyline GT-R was offered by Bonhams in a one-lot, timed online auction that opened on 28 April and closed on 5 May. Located in Germany, the car went there in 2012 after a lengthy legal dispute over its US title, including seizure by the US Border Force after filming of Fast and Furious wrapped in 2008.
While several R34 Skylines were acquired for the movie, what set this one apart was the fact it was a genuine GT-R; the others were lower-spec Skyline GT-Ts dressed up to look like the hero car and used primarily for long shots and stunt work.
Imported from Japan by Kaizo Industries in the US without an engine, after a correct RB26 was sourced and the GT-R made road ready, it was provided to Universal Pictures for filming of Fast and Furious.
While the car’s factory RHD configuration was retained, Kaizo Industries made several modifications to Paul Walker’s request. These included a Turbonetics front-mounted intercooler, increased boost pressure, an upgraded exhaust, Nismo lowering springs, larger brakes, a custom roll cage, OMP racing seats, dashboard monitor and more.
Walker also requested the car be devoid of the graphics and stickers that had adorned many previous FF cars, allowing the factory Bayside Blue paint to shine.
In this form, the car was driven by Walker in Fast and Furious and, according to Bonhams, the seat position is unchanged from when he last used it.
The Walker connection, along with the auction being held on the eve of the release of the tenth Fast & Furious film, ensured global interest and ultimately led to a final sale price of US$1,357,000 (AU$2,023,300 approx.), including buyer’s premium. Bonhams claim this as a new record for a Skyline GT-R sold at auction, more than doubling the previous record of US$577,500 set last year.
"This is an incredible result,” said Maarten Ten Holder, Managing Director, Bonhams Collector Cars. “Well-deserved for such an iconic car – not only one of the most famous contemporary automotive film stars from one of the world's biggest movie franchises, but the ultimate example of the mighty 'Godzilla'. This is a genuine piece of cinematic and modern motoring history.”
Richard Stafford, Head of Research, Bonhams Collector Cars, who consigned the Skyline, added; "We were excited to have had the opportunity to offer this legendary Skyline to global car enthusiasts on behalf of its vendor and are thrilled that it has been such a box office hit, with bidding across the world."
