An R34
Nissan Skyline GT-R famously driven by Formula
1 champion Lewis Hamilton has been located following a theft earlier this year. The iconic car was moments away from leaving Japan, risking being untraceable.
The white R34 belonged to the fleet of the Japanese
performance car rental network
Omoshiro Rent-A-Car.
This specific car was leased by Hamilton during the 2022 Japanese Grand Prix weekend, where he famously showcased daring driving maneuvers, which apparently resulted in damage to the car’s ATTESA ET-S all-wheel-drive system, necessitating an accumulator replacement that same month.
On
Jan. 31, the Nissan was stolen under mysterious circumstances. It was seen
being driven recklessly with altered license plates for disguise. The car remained elusive until customs officers in Yokohama uncovered it in a shipping container on Monday. Due to the soaring value of R34 GT-Rs, which can command prices exceeding $100,
000 and even surpassing $1 million, it’s suspected the theft was for potential export purposes.
The car’s interception prevents its export, albeit parts are reported missing by Omoshiro,
rendering the vehicle inoperable for the time being. The extent of the theft is unclear, but likely targets include high-value
aftermarket performance components or
rare OEM parts. Despite this setback, the Nissan is anticipated to return to rental service, possibly equipped with additional covert GPS trackers.
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Conclusion
The timely recovery of the stolen R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, known for its connection to Lewis Hamilton, averts its potential disappearance into the lucrative market for high-end Japanese cars, ensuring its return to its rightful place. Despite missing parts, efforts are underway to restore the vehicle to its former glory, readying it for future rental services with enhanced security measures.
FAQ
What made the stolen R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R so special?
The stolen R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R gained notoriety for being rented by Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton during the 2022 Japanese Grand Prix, where he showcased daring driving stunts that reportedly led to damage to the car’s all-wheel-drive system.
Why are R34 GT-Rs so valuable?
R34 GT-Rs are highly sought-after and command premium prices due to their rarity, performance capabilities, and iconic status in the automotive world. Prices can exceed $100,000 and even reach over $1 million for well-maintained models.
Will the recovered R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R be put back into rental service?
Yes, the recovered R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R is expected to undergo repairs to address missing parts and will likely be reintroduced into Omoshiro Rent-A-Car’s rental fleet, potentially with added security measures like hidden GPS trackers.
