Threxx

My girlfriend is getting ready to trade in her 99 Accord EX for a new car. She's pretty much leaving the decision of which car to buy up to me... she just wants it to have leather and decent pickup... beyond that she doesn't care, and just wants me to pick the one I think will last the longest and be the best bang for the buck.

I've been looking at it seems like I can actually get an I35 w/ no options (still comes with leather, dual power seats, bose stereo, xenon headlights, etc, etc- just doesn't have sunroof, sport package, or GPS- which doesn't really matter to us) for a couple thousand less than I can get the G35. And that's with no options besides leather on the G35... it wouldn't come with the Bose stereo, xenon headlights, power seats, or any of that- for that price)

We're looking to keep these cars under 27k... and we can get both cars for a tad under invoice (I know a guy that owns an Infiniti dealership and already told me any car I want from the dealership he'll sell for a bit under invoice). But that means that I can't add any more options to the G35.
Whatever car we get it's going to be 4-door (so no G35 coupe in this comparison) and will be auto tranny (g/f can't and won't drive a stick)

So I'm asking for a comparison here.

I really like the fact that the G35 is RWD, that is has a little more power, and that it comes with a 5-speed auto.

But I also like the fact that the I35 is on a proven platform is has been through many years with nothing but tweaks to fix all the bugs that have been discovered over the years. Plus I get the feeling that the I35 will be a much more comfortable ride? But then again it seems like the G35 will handle a lot better and be noticably faster. I've heard things about the G35's interior being cheap and poorly built for a 30k dollar car... which I've never heard about the I35, and interior build quality and material quality is a big concern of mine, as I HATE squeeks and rattles with a passion.

I would assume that the G35, being built on the 'latest greatest' FMP chassis from Nissan\Infiniti, probably has a stiffer and more rigid chassis... meaning it would stay 'tight' feeling longer than the I35 would... which is essentially based on the same chassis as my '95 Maxima was based on, and I can attest that it had a very loose feeling chassis... albeit after 110k miles.

But then again I know that strut tower braces and even subframe connectors are available for 95-02 Maximas... nothing really changed for 03, and the I35 is basically the same car as far as the chassis is concerned, so I would assume that I could bolt on some subframe connectors to the I35 as soon as I got it. But even then, would it be stiffer and more resistant to flex than the stock G35 chassis?
Also, are there subframe connectors and STBs available for the G35 yet? If not, do you think there ever will be?

I know the G35 has some neat tricks like drive by wire, dual stage exhaust, etc... does the I35 utilize these new technologies?

And overall, which car do you think will hold its original qualities and original resale value the best?

I have to give style points to the G35's exterior for sure... but honestly I think I like the I35's interior better... and I'm going to be spending a lot more time looking at the interior than I am the exterior.

Plus the whole thing about buying an '03 Infiniti without even power seats, Xenon lights, or a decent stereo system... just kind of disturbs me.

So what do you guys think\know?

Give me a complete rundown of all the facts and opinions you can come up with for this comparison.

Thanks a million!

NYC GS4

iTrader: (2)

This is the last model year for the I35, after that the resale value will start to go down very quickly. Meanwhile the G35 will just hopefully be picking up more steam (With the release of the coupe next month, then the 6 speed for the sedan shortly after). I drove both and the G35 is faster, handles much better, sounds mean, tranny feels much nicer, ride comfort is definitely very acceptable. However, I dont really like its looks (Pretty damn plain to say the least) and the interior doesnt work at all for me. So I guess I like the looks of the I35 much better but the design is already getting old, at least to me, and the interior of the I35 blows away the G35 but some people have different tastes. I guess in the end go with whats fresh and the G35 just fits the profile for younger people much better than an I35.

Ever thought about a 2K3 SE Maxima fully loaded, including titanium package and Navigation. You'll probably get it for the same price as the other two the way things seem to be going now. To get a Nissan at around or a bit below invoice, you dont even have to know the owner, just be able to bargain a bit.

joaquink

Your car sure looks purdy in that pic. Nice paint.

Nealoc187

iTrader: (23)

Thats a really long post, and honestly I didn't read it, but I would pick the G35 hands down. RWD, more power and better looks. If possible I'd wait for the coupe and 6spd, if that meets your needs.

I30tMikeD

iTrader: (8)

The way you put the choices, I'd say the G35.

dwapenyi

iTrader: (3)

Hmmm. The I35 is bigger, interior space and trunk. More practical. Plus nicer amenities. FWD. Safer in bad conditions., like snow etc. The G35 has RWD, more performance oriented. Less roomy, but faster. Not by much. 255 I35 vs 260 G35. The G35 will be faster, more b/c of the 5 speed auto. The motors are basically the same. But still, after a 99 Accord, even the I35 will blow her away.

If your girlfriend is more practical, get the I35. If she's performance oriented and likes more flash (on the outisde), get the G35.

Both cars will have more than decent pickup, especially since she's coming from a Honda.

Resale value will probably be higher for the G35 since it's more of a niche model.


DW

irvine78

iTrader: (2)

ha!
wait for the G35 manual tranny...V6, 6speed, RWD and brakes that stop you from 60-0 in 117feet...now that is a yummi combo!

MaximaZero

i think the i35 is the better value all around. if she's planning to keep the vehicle for a good while, get the i35.

Mishmosh

iTrader: (3)

If you have Infiniti connections, I'd say by all means get the G35--just be sure you can get the G35 for near invoice as most find it hard to pay much less than full retail. Definitely have the GF test drive both. The G35 is definitely a firm ride, which she may not appreciate, but definitely handles quite a bit nicer. It is also a much more stylish car that for now, is a little more exclusive and special. To me, the I35 looks a little too similar to it's Maxima cousin for a luxury division.

Dave B

Jeez, you do know the I35 is just a rebadged Maxima, right? I would never pay upper 20K/lower 30K for a car with a rear beam axle like the Maxima/I35.

Advantages of the G35:

1) RWD = better overall handling, traction control will save you in bad conditions

2) Nearly perfect 50/50 weight split which means great handling

3) A true BMW 3-series contender

4) 5 speed automatic = far better acceleration

5) Much better looks

6) independent rear suspension = better ride over choppy surfaces



Dave

Kojiro_FtT

Let the GF get the I35. Then get the G35c 6-speed for yourself. She won't want manual anyways. And you do.

MONTE 01&97 SE

iTrader: (1)

Acceleration isn that much better in the G35 both do 0-60 in the 6's, similiar 1/4 mile times from what I have seen Edmunds and other sources. Handling is all G although! Looks I think the 02/03 Maxima looks better than both but that is subjective, Interior all I35 over the G.

blizz20oma

iTrader: (1)

I know about mag times and site times, etc, but MT got the auto G35 to run the same as a 330i manual (14.7 was their call). If an I35 auto can do that, I'm impressed.

My sentiments are along the lines of Dave B, but I don't know if your gf is going to take factors such as slightly better acceleration & advantages of RWD over things like interior/exterior styling and room.
As a performance-oriented driver, I'd choose the G35 (obviously the 6-spd coupe at the top of the list). As someone who really can't tell a difference in accel or the way a rear beam vs. independent rear susp feels, I'd side with I35.

Why doesn't she like the Accord? The answer of that question might help.

shortchaz

Hands down the G35, and not just because I own one. After having an I35 loaner car I always enjoy getting back into my car. The I35 is very floaty in comparison to the G. By the way if you end up ordering a new G35, which will be the 2003.5 model the HIDs come standard as far as I have read, there are a couple other differences but nothing major. Your girlfriend won't be dissapointed if you go with the G35.

ps. the exhaust tone is perfect on the car, like I read in Road and Track(i think it was them), "If you could squint your ears you'd swear it was a v-12."

costcowholesale

iTrader: (12)

leather and decent pick up??

350z

but if you have to pick g35 vs i35

i'll get the g35

mayhem_J30

G35.

carnal_c30

iTrader: (38)

G35

Finality

G35 w/o a doubt.

joaquink

Does choosing between brand new $27,000+ vehicles really qualify as
a dilemma or is it more of a quandary?

I say you should get the G35. Screw the resale value issue. Buying
a vehicle is not an investment. It should be considered a sunk cost
the moment you sign the papers. If you're buying a car that you like,
you're not buying it to sell it; you're buying it to drive it and
enjoy it. Pick the car that best lets you do that.

BBaker025

iTrader: (1)

G35

JsL

iTrader: (5)

I got a G35 loaner car when i bought my I30t for service. Dam that car was fun. Turn off traction control and go to somewhere empty and you will entertain yourself drifting around. The engine is dam tight. It sounds so nice and pulls crazy after 3krpms. I would pick the G35 coupe, then 350z, then G35, then I35.

urbanrobot

i love my sunroof so much i couldnt see myself ever buying anything without one, unless it was a mercedes hardtop convertible but we're not talking about those. for your girl, i think the i35 is a better choice. they have the same engine, and it's not like the i35 is a bad handler or anything. will your girl really notice a difference?? im sure she'd appreciate bose too.

JsL

iTrader: (5)

I35 with 350z intake manifold and engine internals

Miguel97GLE

Definately I35!! The non coupe G35 is dog a$$ fugly inside and out. Go for the total package of performance and luxury. Besides you NEVER want to buy a vehicle the first year it comes out.

dwapenyi

iTrader: (3)

Man you guys are too funny Of course a performance oriented maxima board will pick the G35. I would, too, if it was for me. Actually, I would get the G35C 6 speed with the sports package, and KILL THAT DAMN UGLY WING! Sheesh, that beautiful coupe, spoiled by the spoiler.

Anyways, try to think of what she wants. Maybe you should print this thread and show it to her. See how she reacts.

DW

bill99gxe

iTrader: (1)

G35

superloon

If it were going to be *my* next car, I'd pick the G35. More power, better suspension/handling, RWD, and it's bright shiny new. It would also be 2-door, 6-speed, and, um, not available for many more months...

OTOH, if it was for my wife, I think I'd actually end up going with the I35, because it's got softer suspension, would have more options, she'd prefer the more refined wood-trimmed interior, and she already thinks the max has more than enough power. Plus, I'd know how everything works, so it'd be easier to maintain.

As for resale, It's probably safe to say that the G35 will do better. Think 94/95 Max. And which will hold up better in the long run? Hm, don't have my crystal ball handy.

Should be fun either way though As a final note, I think I actually prefer the exterior styling of the I35 to the G. The G looks good in pictures, but to my eyes, it looks a bit too skinny in person. And the rear end really looks like ***. Har de har. But really, it doesn't even compare to the loveliness of the Coupe and 350 backsides.

the Loon

slickrick

iTrader: (12)

go with the i35. its a classier version of a maxima. the g35 looks too narrow and kinda ugly.

Triple8Sol

iTrader: (29)

Where's the debate here? G35 hands down...no contest...just spring for a few options if you can.

costcowholesale

iTrader: (12)

what about TL-S? they got really good interior

bullseye

I own a 1995 Maxima SE 5-spd. This year I traded in my 2000 Infiniti I30t (auto-tragic) for my 2003 Infiniti G35. Nobody has told me my G35 is fugly. Quite the contrary! Most folks drool on themselves as they tell me how great it looks. Its Garnet Fire (red) exterior and light Willow interior is a great combination.

Do I spend more time looking at the G35's exterior or the interior? Neither, actually. I spend most of my time looking forward through the windshield as I drive down the road. The G35's interior is more than good enough for me. It has great pick-up, and it handles like a dream. It feels light and responsive. It has ABS, EBD, and VDC to go along with its limited-slip diff. And its BRAKES are terrific. My G35 inspires confidence, and it is a very safe, yet fun, car to drive.

Your GF will think she's driving a truck in a I35. It rides soft and sluggish, and it feels heavy. It has a HUGE turning radius that can be very frustrating, especially when it comes to navigating in tight places, like parking lots, driveways, and gas stations. Its looks are OK, but it won't turn any heads. And it does look like a Maxima.

After I test-drove a G35, I couldn't trade-in my I30t fast enough.
But, let her test-drive them both, compare their features/benefits, and pick the color she likes. Let her choose. If she asks you which one YOU think she should get, tell her the value and safety built into the G35 makes it a good choice for her.

My money is on the G35. Good luck.

Burton069

iTrader: (2)

The G35 already had issues. They came out with a 2003.5 model where they fixed the gas tank issue, and HIDs standard. They also changed the trunk a little. Looks better.

There is a G that parks near my building at school...

I have yet to be in a G so I can't comment on interior. I own an I30 and love the interior (cept for rattles) The I35 can only be better.


She should test drive them both and see what she likes. Id get the G though

samarth

Pick the G35 since the I35 will be discontinuing.
The whole infiniti line is going RWD again so the I35 will be sort of obsolete.

Frank Fontaine

I think the G35 looks great from the front. But what has really surprised me about the car is it doesn't look that great from the back, and the worst of it is it looks like a small car. I don't know the dimensions but it seems extremely narrow for whatever reason. It lacks that bold look, forgive me for saying, that even the Cadillac CTS has! I don't like the lack of duals and prop-rodded hood. G35 is not a cheap car imho. Since it doesn't seem to be a big car, I'd go Audi A4 3.0 instead, way way better looking and AWD to boot. Japan makes great motors, but they seem to lack the full monty unless you go Toyota, Honda, Lexus, which is pricier.

Mishmosh

iTrader: (3)

A lot of people seem to comment that it is a small car, particularly that it is narrow. But inside, there is plenty of room. Sure it is smaller, but that just means it is able to handle so much better. Fit and finish may not be up to others in the entry luxo class but the G35 is the biggest bargain out there. In fact, it's probably the only real option out there at $27k unless you scale down to an A4 4-banger. Nissan has done well to make this car the complete package: stopping power, go power, style, comfort, etc.

FortressMaximus

G35 is larger than most ppl think....

anyway, go G35

shortchaz

Just to give you guys an idea of the size of the interior room, I am 6'9" and have a little extra room. In the I35/Maxima I bearly have enough room, I am very tight in it and wouldn't even be able to drive the 6-spd.

Burton069

iTrader: (2)

I was talkin to my dad about him getting a G, and he said the back is smaller, How would you comment on this?

SR20DEN

iTrader: (7)

Looks really bad from the back? Well look again. They have already changed the decklid in the same '03 model year. It looks much better.


Old G35 Rear




New G35 rear

SR20DEN

iTrader: (7)

Despite the fact that most people here prefer the G35 (as well as me) maybe you should just tell her to drive both cars. The g35 is obviously more sporty but the I35 does have more room an a much nicer interior. You should also consider the Maxima as a 3rd option since it's less money than the I35. Or you could wait a few weeks for the G35 coupe which looks even better. I sat in one of those last week and I must say that car is awesome. I just wish they would make the interior look a little more like the Maxima.