But finding a clean R32 GTR took a lot of work. First, Michael and Matt searched locally, but many cars were rough or rusty. So he enlisted the help of Iron Chef Imports to scour auctions in Japan for the perfect example.

After a few uneventful leads, a message came from a Canberra guy. A clean R32 GTR Vspec 2 rolling shell was for sale, and Michael was initially hesitant.

He was looking for a running car. But when he showed it to Matt, he immediately urged Michael to buy it.

Matt built this exact car in 2007 for Autosalon during his time at Belle Garage. He knew the original owner and was able to confirm all the details. But, the GTR had a tumultuous history.

The police got the car back after someone stole it from an Autosalon event. It then sat for ten years before Michael bought it in May 2017. Even more astounding, the car still had the original 2007 registration sticker.

The build process was a five-year journey. Initially, Michael got the car as a bare rolling shell, with only some exterior and interior parts and no motor or gearbox.

The plan was to build it OEM+ with a 2.6l, twin turbos and a standard gearbox. Matt pieced together the car at F&E, who did an excellent job finding all the OEM parts and building the motor.

Before installing the motor, Michael took the car to Bas at 2SUS Custom Resprays for a complete respray in Slate Grey Metallic. A host of N1 body parts, Ganador side mirrors and an R35 GTR badge were also fitted for a more aggressive look.

To complete the exterior, the GTR sits on a set of now iconic bronze Rays CE28 wheels in 18×9.5+15 with 265/35 tyres.

Once back at F&E, Matt fitted the built motor and sent it to Haltech for a run-in tune. The GTR made a healthy 300kw, and Michael was a happy chap. Life was good! But as with many, he soon wanted more power.

So Michael enlisted Anthony from Dahtone Racing to work his magic. First, he pulled the engine bay apart to update the hot side, cold side and fuel system to handle anything thrown at it. Anthony also helped pick the colour theme for the engine bay, which many have replicated.

Michael’s clean R32 GTR is a powerhouse built to handle high performance. The block’s honed and decked, with Nitto 86.5mm pistons, Nitto H Beam rods, and ARP head studs added for strength and reliability.

The heads are ported and polished with Tomei 270 cams and Tomei cam gears. At the same time, Supertech dual titanium springs and Supertech titanium retainers increase efficiency. In addition, the new Plazmaman plenum improves airflow. Michael also added the PRP trigger kit for extra controllability.

A Garret GTX3584RS turbo sits on top of a 6boost manifold with a Turbosmart 50mm ProGate controlling boost pressure. The result of all the hard work is an impressive 550kw at the wheels on 27psi.

When making that kind of power, cooling is a priority. So Michael went for a Plazmaman custom intercooler, Mishimoto radiator, and Greddy oil cooler to keep the engine running cool.

Bosch 1650cc injectors, Frenchy twin in-tank pump kit, and Turbosmart FPR 1200 keep the fuel flowing. A Haltech Platinum Pro ECU with sensors ensures everything is in order.

The drivetrain of Michael’s GTR is a testament to the durability focus of the build. The PPG Helical Dogbox and Billet sandwich plate make for a robust and reliable transmission. In addition, the SpeedTek Billet lockout shifter and DCS twin plate clutch effectively transfer power to the wheels.

The HKS coil overs provide an excellent balance of handling and comfort. While the Brembo F40 4 pot front brakes and 340mm slotted rotors deliver more than enough stopping power.

The interior is what you want from a clean R32 GTR. Michael has retained it’s OEM feel but with a few updates. The Nismo cluster, gear knob and killswitch lighter add a sporty touch to the factory look.

An RWD switch is an excellent addition when he wants to light up the rear end on the streets of “Mexico”. Michael also upgraded the audio system to a Sony xav-ax1000 stereo with Pioneer 4-Way 6.5″ speakers.

Throughout the whole process, Michael is grateful for the help. Without Matt at F&E and Anthony at Dahtone Racing, the car wouldn’t be what it is today.

He also would like to thank his little brother Alex for helping with parts and rolling shots.