Rare Japanese Classics Head to Concours d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction: NSX-R, R34 GT-Rs on Block

The Concours d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, long associated with European coachbuilt masterpieces, will feature a striking collection of Japanese metal this year. Broad Arrow Auctions will present a 2003 Honda NSX-R and five rare Nissan R34 Skyline GT-R models at the event on Lake Como.

Among the highlights is a 2003 Honda NSX-R, one of just 140 second-generation NSX-R models ever made. The car, recently exported from Japan, underwent a full factory restoration in 2022, including engine removal, transmission overhaul, and exterior repainting. With only 46,700 km (29,000 miles) on the odometer, it is expected to sell for between $998,000 and $1.115 million.

A second NSX, a 1999 NSX Type S in blue, is also part of the auction. One of 209 units built, it has 46,830 km (29,093 miles) on the clock.

Five Rare Nissan R34 Skyline GT-Rs Headline the Auction

The star of the R34 lineup is a 2002 GT-R Clubman Race Spec (CRS) from Nismo. Only fewer than 20 GT-Rs underwent the CRS restoration at Nismo’s Omori factory, making it one of the most desirable R34 models—second only to the elusive Z-Tune. This car is expected to sell for between $822,000 and $998,000.

The auction also includes:

• A 2001 Skyline GT-R V-Spec II Nismo S-Tune, one of just 14 built, with under 11,000 km (6,800 miles). Estimated sale price: $587,000 to $822,000.
• A 2001 GT-R M-Spec, one of 366 units built, with 23,000 km (14,200 miles). Estimated sale price: $528,000 to $704,000.
• A 1999 GT-R in Midnight Purple II, modified by Hosaka Tuning Factory. Estimated sale price: up to $469,000.
• A 2002 Skyline GT-R V-Spec II Nur, one of 156 painted in Millennium Jade. Estimated sale price: $528,000.

Japanese Classics Gain Global Collector Attention

The inclusion of these Japanese supercars at Concours d’Eleganza Villa d’Este reflects a growing trend in the classic car market. Once primarily the domain of European exotics, Japanese models like the NSX-R and R34 GT-R are now commanding top dollar at auctions worldwide.

"The Concours d’Eleganza has long celebrated automotive artistry, but this year’s lineup proves that Japanese engineering and design have earned their place among the greats."