The retired Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R generation is in high demand now, and obtaining a well-preserved example of the iconic Japanese car sports can be a nightmare. Chris Steinbacher approached the matter from a creative perspective, procuring a salvaged R35 platform and stretching an R34 body over it.
The task might seem trivial at first, because “R35” sounds like “R34 plus one” to an amateur. To an individual who actually undertakes the body swap project, it represents a great challenge. Everything, from larger parts like bumpers and the radiator grille to smaller ones like the lights and door locks, needs to be carefully re-aligned and mounted in new places, because nothing aligns straight away. That, and you need to make sure the old body does not overlap any sensors or electronic assists of the newer, tech-heavier R35 underneath.
Watch the video for an interesting overview of the project by B is for Build, including the first test drive. Impressively enough, although the car is still not finished, its brakes, ABS and steering work just fine. A boost coupler snaps off during a launch attempt once, but once fixed, it no longer does anything of the kind. Impressive!