The JDM "Hakosuka"... [PIC]

This 1970 Nissan Skyline GTR coupe is a most sought after muscle car of the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market Only) as the first generation of true Skyline performance cars. The Skyline was actually a legacy of the Prince Motor Company that debuted in 1957 that also built race cars in the '60s for the Japanese circuit before the company was absorbed by Nissan who kept the line going. By 1969, Nissan, decided to put a detuned 2.0 liter DOHC S20  inline 6 from their prototype R380 into the 4 door sedan with successful results. So in 1970 they released this 2 door hardtop coupe in this rather raw form with steel wheels sans hubcaps, bolted on rear wheel flares and a tacked on rear spoiler. It's nickname, "Hakosuka" translates roughly to 'boxy-looking mountain road machine'. The engine produced a reasonable 160 hp and it came with 5 speed manual trans, beefed up suspension and front disc brakes. It was a very successful touring car with this 1st generation produced from 1969 to 1972. A 2nd gen with body mods was built for 1973 lasting one year falling victim to the oil crisis and toughened emission regulations. Today, with export restrictions over, this GTR is highly sought after in the US commanding big bucks from an expanding number of JDM fans.

The model is by AUTOart and I love the intricate 3-D badging on this diecast.