Rare R33 Nissan Skyline GT-R NISMO S1 Hits Auction in Iconic Midnight Purple
Nissan’s “Godzilla” remains one of the most storied names in automotive history and this time it arrives stateside with its NISMO S1-Spec pedigree.
Summary
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This rare 1996 Nissan Skyline GT-R is currently up for auction on Cars & Bids, featuring the sought-after Midnight Purple paint and the specialized NISMO S1-Specification tuning package
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The vehicle is powered by the legendary 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine and features tasteful modifications, including 18-inch racing wheels, a NISMO air intake, and an upgraded exhaust system
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With approximately 71,800 miles and a current bid trending toward the six-figure mark, this right-hand-drive R33 represents a premier opportunity for U.S. collectors to own a well-maintained piece of JDM history
For enthusiasts in the U.S., the Nissan Skyline GT-R has long been the “forbidden fruit” of the automotive world—a dominant force on Japanese streets and global racetracks that remained tantalizingly out of reach for decades. Now, a rare opportunity has surfaced on Cars & Bids to own a piece of that legend — a 1996 R33 Skyline GT-R NISMO S1-Specification, finished in the highly coveted and iridescent Midnight Purple.
This isn’t just a standard R33. It features the specialized NISMO S1 package, offering a refined balance of performance and factory-backed tuning. While many Skylines fall victim to over-the-top aftermarket changes, this example is remarkably tasteful. The exterior is enhanced by a NISMO 400R-style front bumper, carbon fiber spoiler accents, and 18-inch Rays Engineering Volk Racing TE37 wheels. Inside, the driver is greeted by a NISMO gauge cluster and center console gauges, along with NISMO front seats and a MOMO steering wheel, all reflecting its right-hand-drive, Japanese-market heritage.
Under the hood lies the iconic 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six (RB26DETT), paired with a tactile 5-speed manual gearbox. The S1-Spec upgrades include BNR34 turbochargers, S1-specific camshafts, and a NISMO intake system, all designed for “S-tune” street performance. While originally rated at 276 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, the addition of a Tomei exhaust and SARD high-flow catalytic converter suggests this “Godzilla” breathes even more fire than its factory specs imply. With approximately 71,800 miles (115,500 km) and a clean Florida title, this Midnight Purple icon represents the peak of 90s tuning culture.
