Nissan Skyline GT-R unveiled

Car enthusiasts worldwide anticipated one particular unveiling by Nissan at the Tokyo Motor Show: the Skyline GT-R. Although still in concept form and unveiled as the GT-R Proto, Nissan says the design is close to final. Its production launch is in 2007, and it should be available in the United States in 2008. The press kit for the car included a great little manga about the history of the GT-R, recounting its model versions and racing wins from the original 1964 launch. Besides the GT-R Proto, a separate historic exhibit at the show had the 1973 model, just before the Skyline went into hiatus.

As for the current concept, it looks fast standing still. Design elements include a drop in the roofline, giving it a slight fastback look (minus the rear hatch), and a meaty front end accentuated by wider front fenders with engine vents in back. Slash headlight inserts mark the front, along with a big center-front air intake. As in previous GT-Rs, it's likely to be an all-wheel drive. And judging from past model engines, it will probably have a power plant based on the 3.5-liter, six-cylinder engine found in the 350Z.

The new GT-R concept (left) was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show. On the right is the 1973 model of this legendary car.