He taught himself FRP technology

After a while, he became interested in the world of motorsport and tuned his C110 Skyline so that it could be driven in a serious aggressive manner. The tuning was a complete remake for circuit driving.

Currently, parts for the prototype “Kenmeri GT-R Racing” are sold as kits, but when Mr Kitagawa started building the car, there were no such convenient items available, and he proceeded to build a replica while collecting and referring to various materials. It is therefore surprising that he taught himself FRP technology, including the over wings, each spoiler, and the headlight jackets, and completed a completely original mold.

The engine, which took more time and money than the exterior, is a mechanically tuned L28 modified 3.1L engine with P90 head surface grinding, Tomei cams, port polishing, and recess processing. The carburetors are Weber φ50, one-off equal-length φ48 tacho legs are set up, and a φ80 self-made stainless steel muffler is combined. The fuel system, including the pump, was all relocated to the boot, and a Kinokuni safety tank was also set up to ensure a stable supply.

He spends his days honing his driving skills

The suspension, which is crucial for circuit driving specifications, has undergone repeated specification changes over the years to create the best set-up for the C110 Skyline. Current specifications include front and rear Star Road coilover kits, rear strengthened lower arms, and front and rear ARC stabilizers. Brakes have been replaced with Racing rotors and calibers with Wilwood. The drivetrain is equipped with an Ogra Racing Concept clutch, Nismo R180 LSD, and a Nismo 6-speed cross transmission for the Nissan S15 ‘Silvia’.

The driver’s seat has also been stripped of its undercoat as a ‘fighting race car’ and the instruments have been re-harnessed and set. A push-button starter has been fitted. The use of analog gauges, whereas most gauges these days are managed digitally, shows the owner’s commitment. The fact that many mechanical sub-meters are placed is also a point that old car enthusiasts will appreciate.

The main stage for this machine is Fuji Speedway, where the original Kenmeri GT-R Racing was supposed to run. The current target is to achieve a sub-2-minute time at FSW. To achieve this, Kitagawa-san is spending his days tuning the car and improving his driving skills in an ongoing process. Incidentally, this aka ‘Kenmeri GT-R Racing Replica’ is a fully certified car.

translated by DeepL