Hey everyone, let's dive into something cool today: the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, and specifically, the burning question of whether it can be converted to rear-wheel drive (RWD). We all know the R34 GT-R as a legend, a beast of a car, famed for its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the ATTESA E-TS Pro. But what if you're curious about a RWD version? Maybe you're into drifting, or you just prefer the feel of RWD. This article will break down everything you need to know about the R34, its AWD system, and the possibility – and practicality – of turning this icon into a RWD machine. We'll explore the technical aspects, the challenges, and whether it's worth the effort. So, buckle up, gearheads, because we're about to get technical and give you a detailed view about this amazing car.

The Legend of the GT-R R34 and Its AWD System

Alright, first things first, let's talk about why the R34 GT-R is so revered. The R34 isn't just a car; it's a cultural icon, especially after its role in movies and video games. Its reputation is built on insane performance, innovative technology, and a design that still turns heads today. At the heart of the R34's performance is its RB26DETT engine, a twin-turbocharged inline-six that's practically bulletproof, providing a massive amount of power. But the real magic lies in the ATTESA E-TS Pro AWD system. This is what helps the GT-R put all that power to the ground effectively. This system is not your average all-wheel-drive; it's smart. It constantly monitors various sensors – throttle position, steering angle, lateral acceleration, and wheel speeds – to distribute power between the front and rear wheels. This allows the car to have amazing grip and handling capabilities. The ATTESA system can send almost all the power to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, making it feel like a rear-wheel-drive car but with the added benefit of being able to send power to the front wheels when needed, such as in corners or when accelerating hard. This is what makes the R34 so incredibly fast and capable. The combination of the RB26DETT and the ATTESA system gives the R34 its legendary status. It's a car that's known for its incredible handling, its ability to accelerate like a rocket, and its overall performance. But what if you wanted to change that? What if you wanted to make the R34 rear-wheel drive?

Can You Make an R34 GT-R RWD?

So, can you ditch the AWD and turn an R34 GT-R into a RWD beast? The answer is: yes, technically, you absolutely can. It's not a simple bolt-on conversion, it takes some serious work, but the process is definitely possible. Here's a look at how it's done and what it involves. The primary way to convert the R34 to RWD involves disabling or removing components of the ATTESA system. One common method is to remove the front driveshaft, disconnecting the front wheels from the power train. You can also modify the ATTESA system itself by disabling its ability to send power to the front wheels. This can be achieved by using a specialized controller or by making adjustments to the system's computer. However, keep in mind that modifying the ATTESA system can be tricky and may require expert knowledge. Another approach involves replacing the front differential with a solid axle. This will eliminate the ability to send power to the front wheels completely. Of course, all these modifications will alter the car's handling characteristics. The R34 GT-R was designed to perform optimally with its AWD system. Removing or modifying this system will change how the car behaves. This may include increased oversteer, and reduced grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Therefore, it's essential to understand the implications of these changes and to make sure you are comfortable with the handling characteristics of the modified car.

Steps and Components Needed for RWD Conversion

If you're serious about the RWD conversion, here's a general overview of the steps and components you'll need. First, you'll need to remove the front driveshaft. This is usually the easiest step. You'll then need to either disable or modify the ATTESA system. This could involve installing a specialized controller or making changes to the system's computer. As mentioned earlier, you could also opt to replace the front differential with a solid axle. In addition to these primary steps, you may need to make other modifications. This could include upgrading the rear differential to handle the increased power, reinforcing the chassis to improve handling, and tuning the suspension for RWD. Here are some of the components you may need: a removal tool to remove the front driveshaft, a specialized controller or computer for disabling or modifying the ATTESA system, a solid axle (optional), an upgraded rear differential, a chassis reinforcement kit, a suspension tuning kit, and possibly other modifications. The cost of a RWD conversion can vary widely, depending on the extent of the modifications and the parts used. It's important to do your research and to determine the estimated cost. But here's the deal, these modifications will be expensive. Therefore, before embarking on this project, ensure you understand the costs involved.

The Pros and Cons of an RWD R34 GT-R

Alright, let's weigh the good and the bad. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to making this conversion. On the plus side, a RWD R34 GT-R can be a blast to drive, especially if you're into drifting or enjoy a more tail-happy driving experience. RWD cars are often considered more engaging and responsive, offering more direct feedback from the road. The car can become lighter. Removing the front driveshaft and other AWD components can reduce the car's weight, potentially improving acceleration and handling. But there are also downsides. The handling characteristics will change significantly. The car's balance will shift, and you'll experience more oversteer. This means you'll need to adjust your driving style and be prepared to manage the car's tail. The car's overall performance might be affected, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The AWD system provides incredible grip and acceleration; taking that away will impact performance. As mentioned earlier, the conversion will be costly. All of this can potentially affect the car's value. The modification could lower the car's overall value, as it would no longer be considered a factory-spec R34 GT-R.

Is It Worth It? Considerations for Your Project

So, is converting your R34 to RWD worth it? This depends on your goals, your driving style, and your budget. If you're a hardcore drifter or a performance enthusiast who prefers the feel of RWD and is willing to invest the time and money, then yes, it might be worth it. However, if you value the R34's original performance, its all-weather capability, and its collectibility, then it's probably best to leave it as is. Consider the following: your driving preferences, your budget, your technical expertise, and the potential impact on the car's value. Doing your research before starting the conversion is important. This means understanding the components involved, the potential challenges, and the costs. There are a lot of factors to consider, but here's a quick summary. If you want a fun, tail-happy car for drifting and you're willing to invest in the time and money, then an RWD R34 GT-R might be the project for you. However, you'll need to accept the modified handling characteristics and lower the value of the car. Otherwise, it is best to leave the R34 GT-R with its original AWD system.

Alternative: Consider Other RWD Cars

If you love the RWD experience but aren't sold on modifying an R34, you might consider other RWD cars that offer similar performance. There are lots of great options out there. Japanese sports cars are always great to look at. Cars such as the Mazda RX-7 or the Toyota Supra offer similar levels of performance and a great driving experience. There are also a lot of European options like the BMW M3 or the Porsche 911. These cars are known for their performance and handling. There are also muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang or the Chevrolet Camaro. These cars offer a different driving experience, but they are also a lot of fun. The advantage of these cars is that they are already RWD. You won't need to make any modifications to convert them. They are designed to be RWD, which means that they have the right components and handling characteristics. This can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches. You can find some amazing RWD cars, so there are a lot of options out there. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, your driving preferences, and your specific needs. Do your research, test-drive some different cars, and find the one that's right for you. It's all about finding the perfect car for you, whether it's an R34 GT-R converted to RWD or a different RWD sports car.

Conclusion: Making Your Decision

In conclusion, while it's technically feasible to convert an R34 GT-R to RWD, it's a significant undertaking with both advantages and disadvantages. It's a project that demands careful consideration, technical knowledge, and a solid budget. Think about your goals: Are you chasing the thrill of drifting, or are you prioritizing the original performance and collectibility of the car? Weigh the pros and cons, consider alternative RWD options, and make an informed decision that aligns with your automotive passions. The R34 GT-R is a legendary car, and any modifications should be approached with respect for its history and potential. Whether you choose to modify it or leave it as it is, enjoy the ride!