The Nissan Skyline R33 series was very similar to its predecessor, the Nissan Skyline R32 series. The GT-R was continued, as was the optional all-wheel-drive layout of the Nissan Skyline  sedans and coupes. The car was still very sporty, although it had grown a little in size and weight and had thus become less agile.

The weight disadvantage was compensated in the engine department though, by the new normally aspirated RB25, a 2.5l inline-6 with 190hp for the GTS-4 and GTS25 versions, and the far more powerful RB25DET, a 2.5l inline-6 turbo with an output of 255hp, which worked in the GTS25t. 

Nissan kept the GT-R RB26DETT engine with an unchanged 280hp, but had a broader torque band which made the engine more flexible. Also standard were improved versions of ATTESA-ETS and Super-HICAS.