1985 Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) ranges between 1275 kg (2812 lbs) and 1480 kg (3263 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. This weight range helped balance performance and handling; the lighter models typically offered more nimble driving dynamics, while the heavier versions might include additional features or drivetrain components like an all-wheel drive system. Overall, the weight was competitive for coupes of its era, contributing to a stable yet responsive driving experience.

Yes, the Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) fits comfortably in a standard residential garage. With dimensions of 4530 mm (178.3 inches) length, 1615 mm (63.6 inches) width, and 1325 mm (52.2 inches) height, it poses no issues for typical garage spaces in most regions, which are commonly designed to accommodate vehicles up to about 6000 mm (236 inches) long and 2400 mm (94 inches) wide. This allows for sufficient clearance around the car for opening doors and maneuvering inside the garage.

The Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) originally came with a variety of tire sizes including 205/55 HR16, 205/60 HR15, and 225/60 VR16. These sizes reflect different setups for varied performance and comfort preferences. Larger 16-inch tires like the 205/55 HR16 provide improved grip and handling due to a lower profile sidewall, ideal for sportier driving. The 205/60 HR15 offers a balance between comfort and performance with a higher sidewall cushioning bumps better. The 225/60 VR16 tires provide wider contact patches for enhanced traction, which is beneficial in spirited driving while maintaining a slightly softer ride.

The Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31), being a compact sports coupe, offers modest interior space suited primarily for driver and front passenger comfort. Rear seating is available but tends to offer limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline and coupe body style. With a width of 1615 mm (63.6 inches), the cabin is cozy but ergonomically designed to maximize driver engagement and passenger comfort. The lower roof height of 1325 mm (52.2 inches) emphasizes the sporty low-slung feel but might be restrictive for taller passengers in the rear.

Compared to its predecessor, the Nissan Skyline R30, the R31 generation shows a refined design with subtle increases in size that enhanced interior comfort and improved aerodynamics. The length of the R31 is approximately 4530 mm (178.3 inches), which may be slightly longer than the R30 depending on trim variants. The width at 1615 mm (63.6 inches) and height at 1325 mm (52.2 inches) also reflect minor dimensional shifts, aiming for a sportier and sleeker profile. These adjustments provided a more modern look and allowed for improved handling and stability at higher speeds.

The Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) was comparable in size to other popular Japanese mid-1980s sports coupes, such as the Toyota Supra Mark II (A60) and the Mazda RX-7 FB. Its length of 4530 mm (178.3 inches) and relatively narrow width of 1615 mm (63.6 inches) gave it a lean and aerodynamic profile. While the RX-7 was often more compact and the Supra slightly larger and heavier, the Skyline balanced performance with a more traditional design philosophy emphasizing comfort and all-around usability. The R31’s styling leaned towards sharp, angular lines characteristic of that period, differentiating it from its more rounded competitors.

The Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) typically features a fuel tank capacity around 65 liters (17.2 US gallons), providing a reasonable driving range for a car of its class and era. Trunk space, while practical for a coupe, is somewhat limited due to the sporty two-door design and sloping rear roofline. The cargo area is suitable for everyday use such as groceries or luggage for two people but may be restrictive for larger items or extensive travel gear. This reflects a common trade-off in performance-oriented coupes between style and utility.

The Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) offered multiple engine options during its production, including inline-six engines such as the RB20 series and the turbocharged RB20DET. These engines were known for their smooth power delivery and tuning potential. Drivetrain configurations varied, including rear-wheel drive as the primary layout, with certain trims offering optional all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction and stability. This diversity allowed the R31 to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from those seeking daily usability to enthusiasts interested in high-performance tuning.

Owners of the Nissan Skyline VII Coupe (R31) should be mindful of typical maintenance considerations for a car of its age and performance pedigree. Regular servicing of the RB series engines, especially turbocharged variants, is critical to ensure reliability. Common issues may include wear in suspension components due to age, potential rust in certain regions given the car's production era, and the need for electrical system inspections. Finding OEM parts can be challenging but aftermarket support is robust thanks to the Skyline's popularity. Routine checks of the cooling system, brakes, and drivetrain components are advisable to maintain optimal performance.