LB-ER34 Miniature 1:18: Liberty Walk's modified Nissan Skyline that became a JDM legend
Few cars combine as much emotion and style as the LB-ER34, a bold creation by Liberty Walk based on the legendary Nissan Skyline ER34. This car is not just a modified Japanese sports car: it is a symbol of modern JDM culture, where extreme customization and respect for motorsports roots go hand in hand. With its aggressive widebody body kit, low stance, and intimidating presence, the LB-ER34 has won fans around the world—from the streets of Tokyo to the biggest international tuning events.
CARS & CLASSIC
Driven Vault
9/10/20253 min read
Model History and Origin
The Nissan Skyline ER34, produced between 1998 and 2002, is one of the most beloved models in the Skyline line, even though it wasn't the GT-R version. It was equipped with robust engines from the RB family, such as the RB25DET turbo, and quickly became a beloved platform for performance enthusiasts.
Liberty Walk, founded by Wataru Kato in Japan, gained international fame by creating body kits that transform already legendary cars into true automotive sculptures. It was in this spirit that the LB-ER34 was born: a radical reinterpretation of the Skyline, maintaining its essence but elevating its appearance and presence to another level.
Cultural Impact and Exclusivity
The LB-ER34 has become an icon within the global JDM and tuning scene. It unites two worlds: respect for the legendary Skyline and the boldness of Liberty Walk.
International Events: The car is a regular at trade shows like SEMA (USA) and Tokyo Auto Salon (Japan).
Pop Culture: Although it didn't officially appear in the Fast & Furious films, many fans associate it with the spirit of characters like Brian O'Conner and his passion for Skylines.
Exclusivity: Each car is custom-built, making it a one-of-a-kind creation.
JDM Symbol: It is considered one of the most famous modified Skylines outside of Japan.
Rare Curiosities
Inspired by Motorsport: The ER34's Liberty Walk design was inspired by Japanese Touring Cars (JTCC) and the style of bosozoku, Japanese car culture groups.
Handcrafted Construction: Each widebody kit is carefully crafted, and installation can take weeks to perfectly align every detail.
Collector's Value: Even though it's a tuner car, the LB-ER34 is highly prized among collectors seeking exclusivity.
JDM Globalization: Many examples were exported from Japan to the US and Europe after the Skyline's import license (25-year rule).
Variety of Colors: Although the most popular kits are gray, white, or matte black, LB-ER34s have also been seen in eye-catching paint jobs like acid green and pearlescent purple.
Design and Engineering
What makes the LB-ER34 special is its Liberty Walk design, which doesn't go unnoticed anywhere.
Design Highlights:
Widebody Kit: flared fenders, exposed rivets, and muscular lines.
Air ride suspension: Allows the car to be lowered to extreme heights during events without compromising handling.
Redesigned bumpers: With larger air intakes and a racing-style rear spoiler.
Custom forged wheels: Typically with a wide rim and aggressive offset.
Pure JDM style: Combines the soul of the Skyline with the boldness of modern tuning.
Each LB-ER34 can be customized by the customer, making each one unique, but all share the aggressive Liberty Walk DNA.
Technical Specifications
Since the LB-ER34 is based on the Nissan Skyline ER34, its specifications may vary depending on the configuration. However, a typical build features:
Base engine: RB25DET 2.5L turbo (inline 6-cylinder)
Stock power: ~280 hp
Tuned power: can exceed 500 hp with turbo and ECU upgrades
Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic (many converted to manual)
Wheel drive: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (depending on the base model)
Suspension: Adjustable coilovers or Liberty Walk air suspension
Approximate price: depends on the base model + LB kit; easily exceeds US$100,000 for complete builds
The LB-ER34 is much more than a modified Skyline: it is an icon of modern Japanese automotive culture, capable of thrilling sports car fans, collectors, and tuning enthusiasts around the world.
Whether for its aggressive stance, the unmistakable roar of the turbocharged RB engine, or the exclusivity of the Liberty Walk touch, this car has become a landmark among today's most admired JDM projects.