This 1983 Nissan Skyline RS-Turbo (VIN DR30029669) is an interesting find here in the US, where most imported Skylines are either early Hakosukas or R32-on models. Like most generations of Skyline, these were offered with a variety of engines and trim levels, as well as several body styles including a four-door sedan, four-door hardtop and wagon. This coupe is a zenki or pre-facelift model in range-topping form with a turbocharged twin-cam 2.0 liter FJ20ET four of about 200 HP, and though the seller admits to some limited rust and so-so cosmetics, the car’s distinct profile, factory two-tone, round taillights and RS Watanabe wheels still make for a very cool looking machine. The seller doesn’t mention running condition, but mileage is listed as 164k kilometers (~102k miles), and sale sounds to include what’s needed for registration. Find it here on Craigslist in Lynwood, Washington for $8,900.

Admittedly, we do prefer the looks of facelifted kouki RS-Turbo R30’s (nicknamed tekkamen or “iron mask”), but these earlier cars still have a very distinct profile and overall look, with lots of cool details like the rear wiper, quad round taillights, factory two-tone and aero kit. Large, blocky gold 4 Valve DOHC RS-Turbo markings low down just ahead of the rear wheels are another super-cool factory feature, though unfortunately they’re not all that visible in photos and are partially blocked by an aftermarket aero kit. Paintwork has held up pretty with minimal fading, though more serious flaws include bubbling rust on lower door edges and inner trunk edge, a chipped and cracked air dam, and a faded and slightly warped rear bumper.

Genuine Watanabe eight-spokes are well chosen and worth a good bit on their own, but make room in your budget for fresh tires. They’re especially attractive from the ¾ view.

Tying together the red theme throughout the car, the model’s eye-catching 80’s techno upholstery is always fun to look at and in nice shape here despite a noted hole in the driver’s seat. We dig the switchgear, cluster, and wheel, to the left of which a GReddy boost gauge has been added. Unfortunately, an empty radio slot and wires hanging below the dash are unsightly, as are the Alpine speakers resting on the cracked rear parcel shelf.

Some red paint has vacated the FJ20ET’s cam cover and running/driving condition aren’t mentioned, but the engine appears as though it may run–most hoses and fittings look fresh. It’s still a good-looking motor despite the chipped finish and when new, produced 188 horsepower in ’83 trim.

Though not as exhilarating as later (or earlier) GT-R siblings, these middle-child RWD turbo Skylines are gems in their own right, with some truly fascinating race history. They don’t show up on North American shores too often, and provided mechanicals are good and rust limited, we’d be happy to live with this one’s scruffy cosmetics for a while.