The massive wings, enormous tires and snarling, raspy exhaust note of the modified 2.8-liter RB leave no one uncertain about this GT-R’s purpose. Suffice it to say that while punchy, the R34 GT-R was not an immensely quick car from the factory. Strangled by the gentleman’s agreement, it always had potential for more, as its stiffened chassis and sophisticated drivetrain suggested. This particular machine shows exactly how quickly a modified GT-R can go with carefully-chosen parts and diligence.

While single turbos are all the rage these days, Develo Pro opted not for big boost alone, but for a well-balanced engine, with responsive turbos, Tomei parts, and increased displacement. The massive output is harnessed not only by the ATTESA-ETS four wheel-drive system, but an Albins sequential gearbox. With every pump of the gear lever, the car surges forward, and relentlessly hurls its occupant towards the horizon. In fact, it’s able to match a liter bike at the end of the Phillip Island straightaway. For a car that weighs a touch over 3,000 pounds, that is extraordinary acceleration.

The aero parts give this GT-R a smart, serious look, but detract from the stylish lines of the original.

This Skyline will divide opinion with its aesthetics. Though many might love the extravagant, JGTC-inspired overfenders, carbon body parts and angular add-ons, they’re in place to make the car quicker, not give elegant lines. Similarly, the interior is spartan and stripped, and the familiar screen atop the dash which appeals to the inner Playstation gamer in all of us has been scrapped, and replaced with a minimalist, carbon fiber dash.

All those upgrades go to good use. The onboard footage shows a car that is stable, responsive and predictable. No sudden bouts of wheelspin, unforseen slides or locked brakes, just a competent, relentless charge. The GT-R’s sophistication might keep it from being the most theatrical car on display, but when it handles this well, you can leave drama for the birds.