The G35 looks to be a great car, but I'm a bit disappointed by the interior shots. Too much black plastic. If they would do it like the Q45 now has, with beautiful wood and lighter tones, that would be a huge improvement IMO. And what's with the huge center tunnel? Isn't it a bit on the extra-large size? Looks are fine--a lot liike the upcoming altima in the front.
well theres no way one copied another...theyre both coming out at teh same time...so that means they started development at the same time meaning its coincidence... ; )
I see a lot more '02 Altima in that cadddy then G35. The onlything similar to the G35 I'd have to say would be the vertical swept back headlights and wide grill.
Current issue of Car & Driver has a nice one-page article on the upcoming G35. Supposedly out in spring of '02. Has anyone spoken with a dealer about it? Know when they will arrive? Any pricing details?
Sounds like it might be a real winner. Far more substantive then G20, which is nice but lacks the right engine. Hope G35 comes with the CVT automatic that can also act like a 6-speed automatic.
I have read your posts after reading the excellent one page write-up in C&D. I would trade my Lincoln LS 5 speed manual for a 6 speed G35 in a heartbeat but I don't think Nissan is going to have the six-speed manual ready at introduction. I say that because I don't think Nissan has an existing 6 speed and the Japanese usually will make their own rather than go with a Tremec or the Getrag which the Supra used from 93-96. Concerning the IS300, Toyota did design a new five speed (W55) even though they had the excellent W58 five speed used in the 82-92 Supra, the 83-86 Cressida and in the Lexus SC300 in the early 90's, and all these models had the 2.8-3.0 litre engines that are identical to the engine in the IS300. The real reason Toyota designed a new five-speed for the IS300 was size. The W58 was physically too large for the smaller IS300 body. That Lexus didn't go for a six-speed was a disappointment to many - there position was that it "wasn't necessary". I beg to differ. The W55 has almost no fifth overdrive - an .85 to 1, requiring the rear end ratio to be lower than the automatic to keep the cruising RPM lower for CAFE and NVH. The old W58 had a .71 to 1 fifth, bringing down the cruise rpm and allowing a deeper rear ratio. My Lincoln LS uses a Getrag fiver with no overdrive fifth. So at 75 mph, the engine is at 3000 rpm!!! To keep the rpms down to that, the rear ratio is 3.07 to one! The IS300 stick is like 3.8 to 1. So I need the Getrag six-speed that has an overdrive sixth gear. The point here is that we have to hope that Infinity doesn't chicken out and put a five-speed manual in the G35. It's too much of a compromise. Lobby for the six-speed. So many cars have or are going to have six-speeds. This allows for a great overdrive ratio in sixth which enables a deep rear ratio for acceleration while getting great gas mileage as well. The best of all worlds.
I know that the 255 HP 2002 Maxima comes with a 6 speed manual. Don't you think the same transmission can be used in the upcoming G35. Also I guess the new Z is going to have a 6 speed manual too. Is that the same one from the Max or is Nissan/Infiniti developing a new one. I will strike the G off my list if it doesn't offer manual 6.
Hopefully, the G35 should be able to offer the same transmission choices as the new Nissan Z which is definitely supposed to have a 6-speed. In fact, the entire drive trains should be the same. I'm looking forward to a manual 6-spped in the G35, also, and will be dissapointed if Infiniti doesn't offer it.
The same tranny is most likely used in the new Z, as both are rear wheel drive. When is the new Z car due? Although the Maxima will have a six-speed as well, the Maxima is front wheel drive and may only share some internals of the transmission, if anything at all. I wonder if Nissan will actually build a new 6 speed. New trannys cost a fortune to design and sales are not huge in numbers. Toyota found it easier to buy Getrag six-speeds, and BMW the ZF tranny.
if you would trade your LS for the G35, are the two cars similar in size, interior and exterior??? also, is the G35 coming with independent rear suspension, as opposed to the Maxima and I35 which, I believe, do not?? wouldn't that possibly make the G35 a better handling car than either the Max SE or I35 sport? if my facts are wrong, please correct me...as always :)
the G35 will be a far better handling car than the Max SE or I35 sport. The G35 will be rear-wheel drive and has nearly 50/50 weight distribution. This car is designed to handle as well as the BMW 3-series, since that's the competition it's going after.
The G35 not only has multi-link independent rear suspension, it will have multi-link ind. front suspension as well.
Based on what I've seen and read, I would be very interested in the G35.
I'm glad that Nissan will once again be selling interesting cars in the US. They were once my favorite Japanese brand, but I didn't like any of their cars after the early 90's. Maybe they will even make a Maxima that isn't "butt-ugly" (pun intended).
G35 is 9 inches shorter than the Max/I30 but its wheels base is just as long. Room is in plenty, as in the Max/I30 so it can handle people unlike a 3 or the IS. Length is 184. Wheelbase is 112.
Isn't the new G35 similar in size to new Altima? Altima essentially a FWD version of G35? Will they be made in same factory in Japan? And this isn't meant as a slam. I'm really impressed with the new Altima. Might be hard to choose between the two, esp. if money is a factor.
Does anyone know if the G35 is currently on sale in Japan or Europe? Both of these markets received the current G20 a couple years before the US did.
Anyone seen anything substantive in regard to sales date in USA, options & pricing? I may have to swing by an Infiniti dealer to see what they know. But they seem to be the last to know anything. Wanting to move current metal!
The Altima and G35 are built on completely different platforms. The G35 is going to share its platform with the next generation skyline, not the GTR however which will now be sold as a seperate model
Re-looked over the September Car & Driver which has the nice articles on the G35, new Altima, and revised Maxima.
The review of the Altima says its suspension was "based on the zoomy Skyline model's running gear." Think that is where I thought the G35 was much more similar to Altima. Now I just wish I knew exactly how the RWD G35 and FWD Altima's suspensions and chassises differ. They sure look alike. Have similar size & shape. Both use 3.5L V-6.
New 3.5L V-6 Maxima uses 6-speed manual. New 3.5L V-6 Altima uses 5-speed manual. Car & Driver preview of G35 doesn't detail what manual is in it. Says there will be a 5-speed automatic. And that it will have both manual and automatic transmissions. Then mentions possible CVT that can function like a 6-speed. Anyone know for sure if G35 will use 6-speed or 5-speed? The reviews of the new Maxima 6-speed seem to be poor. Car & Driver says it is bad news, with poor shift feel and hard engagement. Too bad, if true.
I also missed the mention about a possible 2-door G35 in 2002. Anyone seen any pictures of it? Is it now on sale anywhere?
More I think about G35, more pumped I am. If price is around $30,000 and it has the same Infiniti build quality of its siblings, I'll give it serious look.
The G35 and Altima in now way related to each other. The rear suspension is independent on the altima and the design in which things are placed is like the kyline, but not borrowed literally.
The Skyline platform will support the following vehicles to come in the future:
The 10/01 Motor Trend New Car issue says "expect" the G35 to have a 6-speed manual. I stopped by the local Infiniti dealer today. They didn't have any brochures, literature, or anything on it. Salesperson said he'd gone to a sales seminar not too long ago and was informed G35 would be a 6-speed manual (not a 5-speed). Seemed like a decent sales guy who knew his stuff. The dealer is co-located with Audi, VW, and Acura dealership. He sells all four.
The real question is: When does the new "Z" car get the six-speed or when does the new "Z" car appear? The six-speed has to be produced for the "Z" car first.
Thought Nissan was using the same 6-speed manual in the 3.5L V-6 Maxima, G35, and 350Z? Does the Z get a different 6-speed? Motor Trend claims the Z's 3.5L will put out 300 hp versus 280 hp in G35 and 260 hp in Maxima. And 240 hp in the 5-speed manual Altima.
Every FWD tranny is substantially different from a RWD tranny. I think the new "Z" is going to be your "marker". The engines are very similar, however. The Maxima engine might be the best V-6 ever built for mass production. Too bad it's a FWD application for now.
stanny1... What do you mean? That the 6-speed transmission used in the RWD 350Z & G35 will have completely different gear ratios than in the FWD Maxima/I35? Will they handle different hp/toque loads? Or do you only mean that some of the components are different to ensure the tranny will fit longitudinally versus transversly, but they are the same from a ration & load standpoint?
Maybe all of the above. Most likely, the 350Z and G35 will use the same RWD housing (case), but the ratios may be different. Usually, the FWD cases are split into two vertical sections for space considerations. One section has the clutch and power transfer chain/belt and the lower section has the countergear and main gears. That's about as different as you can get. Does anyone know when the 350Z with 6 speed will be available? That is the $64,000 question.
stanny1... Pulled out the September Motor Trend. Has a small "Z Update". Claims July 2002 launch. As for 6-speed, are you saying you know there are such big differences between the versions used in the RWD G35 and 350Z and FWD Maxima/I35, or are you making an educated guess? Does anyone have the technical data to show what differences, if any, there are for the FWD and RWD Nissan 6-speed manual transmissions? I tried to look up that Japanese Skyline link but says it will take a long time to download the translator stuff. Don't want to clog PC with stuff.
I have no technical articles to rely on. Nissan could use the same "innards" in both RWD and FWD, just different cases. When Volvo went from the 960/S90 RWD to that abortion they call the FWD S80, the engine was the same but the auto tranny was totally different. The first twin turbo S80's blew apart the FWD trannys. FWD is such a packaging compromise (not to mention handling and a few other catagories). Just pray they carry over the six-speed to the G35 from the Z. But we are looking at 10 months or more. Anything could happen. The market will change in that time.
stanny1... Don't be too hard on Volvo. I think the S80 is quite an attractive car. The LS looks a lot like it. Good safety equipment. Good crash test results. The T-6 model has some serious power. And it uses a nice inline six engine. Isn't the engine actually running N-S rather than E-W? Can you get a manual transmission in it? Was thinking you can't. And forget if it has a 5-speed automatic. Agree it should be RWD but fact it isn't might make sense to Ford, seeing that Ford somehow has to simultaneously separately market Lincoln LS, Volvo S80, and Jaguar S-type.
The Porsche-designed engine in the S80 was used since 1992 in the 960/V90/S90 RWD. They turned it sideways (widest FWD drivetain in history) and had no room for the excellent BW/Aisan automatic. So Volvo went out and found the tranny out of a Buick Skylark. Not the best Buick tranny, just the one that fits. The first turbos grenaded the trannys.I would really worry about this car outside the warranty period. Many Volvo fanatics say that the last Volvo was made in 2/98 (V90/S90. No manual available (I guess they can't find a Buick manual tranny). I have a 1996 960 Wagon - last of the big Volvo RWD wagons. Because Ford has Volvo, the LS will not be exported to Europe. Now when do you think the G35 will be here? The 350Z?
stanny1... Local Infiniti dealer this week seemed pretty confident that the G35 would arrive in his showroom around March 1, 2002. That is only 6 months away. He also thought, though not quite as confident, that the 350Z would be in his showroom by July 1, 2002. That is only 10 months away. (If other Infiniti guy in my area is open Monday, I plan on stopping by.)
Glad to see the Lincoln LS "fanatics" and "crazies" (their own words) haven't expelled you from their ranks for disloyalty. Thought it interesting that your defense of the LS hinged on a ton of "IFs" and on a longer time frame than the G35. Who knows if the DEW lite platform will even be developed or if so, when. Ford ain't in good financial shape. Need to spend their time ensuring market share in trucks, SUVs, and minivans. Thankfully, the G35 will be here soon. And the press reports even sooner. Not to mention car shows. Praying it will be all that the early reports say. 270/280 hp and 6-speed manual. She'll eat up LS and CTS V-6s.
stanny1... Forgot to ask, didn't Buick sell the rights to there innovative early 1960s 225 cubic inch V-8 to Rover? Thinking some British car company is still using it today. In Defender or some SUV. So, Volvo might get burned on inappropriate Buick transmission, but Rover ended up with a nice Buick engine. Just like GM to give up its good stuff?
That release schedule is bad news for the G35. I really doubt that the six-speed will appear in the G35 in March if the Z will come out in July. I think the Z will come out with a six-speed - then available later in the G35. Just like the IS300. I bet the tranny is still on the drawing boards. Unless someone has internal connections into Nissan corporate, we will just have to wait. I can't afford two lease payments, but in June 2003, I will be looking for that six-speed G35. I don't have to concentrate too much on it now - I can't act anyway. I like the size of the LS and I hope the G is bigger than the IS300. For that kind of money, I want a comfortable car. My 965 Volvo was the widest Volvo made. The LS is the widest sports sedan I can afford. Almost as wide as a Hummer. I am a LS enthusiast but I think sports, religious and even car fanatics are small minded. I'm into digital cameras, video, audio, and computers so cars are just another interest. My car gets dirty and I don't kiss it every night. Who's got time? I have a family, job and a household to maintain. And my brain has only a 10mb hard drive (it's old).
I think the Brits did buy the aluminum Buick V-8. And the Range Rover still has it unless Ford or BMW changed it. By now it's an old pushrod engine. Rover charges a lot for old technology. Rover buyers buy image. Although their SUV's are great off-road, who needs it? I'm in San Diego. It hardly even rains here. In fact, I can't even remember when it last rained here. So when I see a Range Rover, I know it's just Yuppie scum, not a car person.
Was looking at hordes of new 2002 3.5L Maximas at Nissan dealer's lot. Noticed that the official window sticker says 255 hp. Down 5 hp from 260 hp press had been reporting. Guessing Nissan has doublechecked their figures and is confident they are accurate. Seems conceivable G35 might have 270 hp.
The IS300 site here has a link to Automotive.com info on plans for Japanese manufacturers. Mentions IS300 getting supercharged engine next spring. Also discusses G35 as having standard 5-speed automatic with CVT to follow. Didn't specifically mention manual transmission. Has me a bit nervous. stanny1, you might be right. Forgot to look what it says about 350Z. You should check out the IS300 board from today.
the S80's tranny is not from the Skylark. Skylark's engine barely produced any power.
This tranny is from the 240HP Buick Regal GS/Pontiac Grand Prix GTP. It is rated for 280 lbs*ft of torque, that's exactly how much the Volvo's engine is making.
That's also how much torque the Regal GS/Grand Prix GTP are making. These cars have been running fine for a few years now with this tranny. I used to have a GTP for 3 years and never had any problems with the tranny.
From what I've heard, the engine of the G35 will probably be around 275-285 bhp, likely just below that of the upcoming 350Z sports car.
There is talk that the toroidal-roller CVT introduced on the Nissan Cedric/Gloria Japanese-market models about a year ago has will be one of two standard transmissions for the G35, the other being a six-speed manual. Either way, the G35 will definitely be a major blast to drive. :-)
With that much power, the G35 is probably a much better competitor against the BMW 3-series than even the Lexus IS300.
I'm a big Nissan fan, having posted previously my satisfaction with a 1995 Maxima SE that now has 113k miles and not a single significant repair or non-routine maintenance requirement.
However, in considering upscale replacements for winter/spring purchase, I have extensively test driven everything out there. Although I have no doubt that the new G35 will be able to give BMW a run for the money in the power/acceleration category, I have not driven any sedans from any other manufacturer that compare to the tight feel and handling of a BMW 3 or 5 series. Hopefully, in going with the rear drive layout for the G35, Infinity will focus as much engineering at achieving leading edge steering and handling as they are at power.
Just a wish to make my future decision even more difficult!
P.S. It is interesting that the new crop of "near-luxury" level sedans are coming out with horsepower ratings equal to or over previous generation Acura NSX's, BMW M3/M5's and other enthusiast cars.
I always forget to look at the manufacturer's web site. Just went to Infiniti USA's site. Has some info and pictures for G35. Mentions RWD, 3.5L V-6, and fact engine is continuous VVT.
Site allows you to register for future information. I did and can't wait to see what Infiniti starts sending me. Hoping I'll get something nice in mail over next couple months. I'm excited!
Only C&D mentions the G35. Unless I'm missing it, R&T is silent. R&T has a short review on the new I35, mentioning its 255 HP, which is same as the 3.5L in Maxima. C&D mentions a 270 HP G35 power estimate and says we should be getting both manual and automatic transmissions. Great news, if true! They don't mention possible CVT (which is mentioned in C&D's discussion about Audi's 3.0L CVT in A4).
One think that I think could be interesting is if the modifications that 3rd party tuners make for the Z car can be used on the G35. If they have the same drivetrain layout, I hope it is possible. Stock 260-280 hp would be interesting for around $30k, but add a turbo or supercharger to bump it to 300-350 hp for a few grand (?) and now you have something that could possible run with a BMW540. Very interesting.
I wouldn't think that kind of horsepower is out of the realm of possibility for a 3.5 litre blown engine. Has anyone heard of anticipated mods for the Z car, or is it still too soon?
It seems like Nissan always has the high horsepower number, but straight line performance of their models doesn't seem to be in line with their hp advantage. Don't know if they are giving up torque for hp. (The BMW 540 has something like 280hp, but over 300 lb/ft of torque).
Spent some time this afternoon at local Nissan dealer looking at a moderately loaded '02 Altima 2.5 SL (leather, sunroof, & more). Quite roomy, inside and in trunk. Nicely styled, inside and out. Too bad they didn't have a 3.5L SE. Dealer thought a fully loaded 3.5L would have a window sticker around $29,500. If the G35 is all of the new Altima and much more, and for only around low $30,000s, then I think it will be a huge hit. The new Altima seems quite competitive in the mid-20 range. Hope the G35 really surprises BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS300, not to mention Lincoln LS and Cadillac CTS!
If the new Altima is close to $30,000, it would not be competitive considering the rear wheel drive competition just above that point. And I think the new Altima will carry over the image of the old Altima. Nissan has quite a challenge to change that. Putting high horsepower in a FWD platform will increase torque steer and wear problems, especially in the Manual models. We RWD people just laugh at the thought: "Gee, at $30,000 or so, if they just had a brain...
Maybe in the mid 20's the new Altima will shine. It's really in a class where the typical driver is not too horsepower conscious. It's like a hipo Camry. Is there a market? As to the new Manual LS - we haven't seen a mag test yet. But my Manual with the Borla and new air box mod should cut low sevens. It's incredible how the mags ignore manual tranny cars like the LS when only two cars are in that class. It's the old BMW mystique - make a small # of true hipo cars but most buyers buy the appliance models with slush boxes and think it's hot stuff. But what do you want with a country where only 8% know what a real car is like, and many of those are FWD econoboxes. 92% buy automatics. At least in Europe, 88% know how to drive and know what a standard transmission is. I think it's so cute how all these people complain how their automatic transmission shifts. It's like the thermostat at work - no one's happy with the temperature. At least I know that if I'm not happy with the 3-2 shift down, I can look in the mirror and know who's doing the shifting. I don't have to E-mail some poor engineer in Detroit and complain about my programming. The G35 is going to be a driver's car. To get the most out of it, don't get the automatic. It's like a 25 hp handicap. If you want an appliance, buy the Maxima. The FWD will make you feel right at home. You'll have to use traction control or your front tires will be history, especially with the six-speed. Traction control will slow you down, so the answer to begin with is RWD. So even a 400 hp Altima has a fatal flaw. We know the 2003 LS V-6 is getting a boost to around 250. That's when my lease expires. I can get an 03 or 04. Or I can get a G35. By then I can see if the hp claims are true on both cars (since Nissan is having hp credibility problems) and if the G35 does indeed get a six-speed,LSD,etc. Right now its all vaporware.
I don't think LM will stroke the Duratech very much. The Jag S Duratech has VVT and I think that will be in the 03 LS. The VVT gives better torque at low speed. My dad has a Park Avenue Ultra and it's torque is all low. It runs out of breath very fast even with the spooler. I can't even compare it's handling with the LS. It's a living room with wheels. Great trip car with tons of room. I drove it back to Nebraska last year and it is as exciting to drive as an SUV. Try to drive a 2002 LS Manual. Dealers don't like to stock them. And they take alot of break-in. I went head to head with a 2001 IS300 a couple of months ago and he couldn't lose me. Next time I will take the lead. The strategy with the LS is to keep the engine wound out and use the clutch as a semi-throttle. It's all in keeping the engine at it's torque peak. The Borla helps keep the engine from dropping rpm on the shift. The LS has a known breathing restriction because the exhaust system was not customized for the car, especially the V-6 in general and the Manual in particular. The only change for 2002 to achieve 10 additional hp was less restrictive mufflers and larger air box inlet area. I've gone beyond that. The LS is a large car compared with the 3 series and IS300. If size is not important, the IS300 has tons of mod potential. Have you seen the IS300 enthusiast sites? If you need to cap it at 25k, the Altima is probably the best compromise. In the 30k range, the G35 is the one to beat. Cars are like stereo equipment - it's what's best at each price point. In the summer of 2000, I chose the LS Manual because it was the best larger Manual 4 door RWD for the money. The IS300 was not even on the radar screen. It's probably too boy-racer for me anyway. I have to take clients in my car and the LS has more space.
Our subject here is the G35. We seem to be talking about several different vehicles other than that. These are vehicles that have their own dedicated discussions here on the Sedans board.
If anyone wants to start a comparison between the G35 and one or more of these other vehicles, please freel free to go over to our Comparisons - Sedans vs. Sedans folder and get one started.
Meanwhile, let's get back to the G35.
Stanny1 - My message is not entirely directed at your latest post - you at least made an attempt to keep us on topic, and I appreciate that.
I just want everyone here to remember this is not a comparison topic, and we can certainly entertain one if folks are interested as long as it is placed appropriately.
This G35 is an enigma anyway. We are victims of too little information about a car with too long a lead time. You can only buy a car that exists. While the G35 sounds like the perfect performance car, manufacturers are famous for "puffing" future offerings. Hp, six-speeds,etc are not guaranteed. IS300 owners did not get a six-speed, and only got a manual after some time after launch. The economy may have an effect on many future offerings. It is almost certain development budgets will be trimmed, and "updates" delayed. In the meantime, I plan to enjoy my ride and listen for new information on the G35 which is suspiciously sparse. Thanks for the comment. You'd make a good attorney...focus,focus,focus.
Is it your intention that ONLY the G35 can be mentioned here? I think it is totlly unreasonable to expect car nuts to only talk about one particular vehicle; especially when the one under consideration is a new offering. Comparisons to other vehicles is in the nature of the beast. We are intensly interested in how the G35 will stack up to others in the same market. With such little actual information available at this time a dedicated comparisons discussion is not yet warranted. Your "cautionary" note would be welcomed if we were ignoring the G35 altogether, but this has not happened. Please cut us a little slack.
Comments
Sounds like it might be a real winner. Far more substantive then G20, which is nice but lacks the right engine. Hope G35 comes with the CVT automatic that can also act like a 6-speed automatic.
Concerning the IS300, Toyota did design a new five speed (W55) even though they had the excellent W58 five speed used in the 82-92 Supra, the 83-86 Cressida and in the Lexus SC300 in the early 90's, and all these models had the 2.8-3.0 litre engines that are identical to the engine in the IS300. The real reason Toyota designed a new five-speed for the IS300 was size. The W58 was physically too large for the smaller IS300 body. That Lexus didn't go for a six-speed was a disappointment to many - there position was that it "wasn't necessary". I beg to differ. The W55 has almost no fifth overdrive - an .85 to 1, requiring the rear end ratio to be lower than the automatic to keep the cruising RPM lower for CAFE and NVH. The old W58 had a .71 to 1 fifth, bringing down the cruise rpm and allowing a deeper rear ratio. My Lincoln LS uses a Getrag fiver with no overdrive fifth. So at 75 mph, the engine is at 3000 rpm!!! To keep the rpms down to that, the rear ratio is 3.07 to one! The IS300 stick is like 3.8 to 1. So I need the Getrag six-speed that has an overdrive sixth gear.
The point here is that we have to hope that Infinity doesn't chicken out and put a five-speed manual in the G35. It's too much of a compromise. Lobby for the six-speed. So many cars have or are going to have six-speeds. This allows for a great overdrive ratio in sixth which enables a deep rear ratio for acceleration while getting great gas mileage as well. The best of all worlds.
The G35 not only has multi-link independent rear suspension, it will have multi-link ind. front suspension as well.
I'm glad that Nissan will once again be selling interesting cars in the US. They were once my favorite Japanese brand, but I didn't like any of their cars after the early 90's. Maybe they will even make a Maxima that isn't "butt-ugly" (pun intended).
A beauty. I'm hooked.
Does anyone know if the G35 is currently on sale in Japan or Europe? Both of these markets received the current G20 a couple years before the US did.
Anyone seen anything substantive in regard to sales date in USA, options & pricing? I may have to swing by an Infiniti dealer to see what they know. But they seem to be the last to know anything. Wanting to move current metal!
The review of the Altima says its suspension was "based on the zoomy Skyline model's running gear." Think that is where I thought the G35 was much more similar to Altima. Now I just wish I knew exactly how the RWD G35 and FWD Altima's suspensions and chassises differ. They sure look alike. Have similar size & shape. Both use 3.5L V-6.
New 3.5L V-6 Maxima uses 6-speed manual. New 3.5L V-6 Altima uses 5-speed manual. Car & Driver preview of G35 doesn't detail what manual is in it. Says there will be a 5-speed automatic. And that it will have both manual and automatic transmissions. Then mentions possible CVT that can function like a 6-speed. Anyone know for sure if G35 will use 6-speed or 5-speed? The reviews of the new Maxima 6-speed seem to be poor. Car & Driver says it is bad news, with poor shift feel and hard engagement. Too bad, if true.
I also missed the mention about a possible 2-door G35 in 2002. Anyone seen any pictures of it? Is it now on sale anywhere?
More I think about G35, more pumped I am. If price is around $30,000 and it has the same Infiniti build quality of its siblings, I'll give it serious look.
The Skyline platform will support the following vehicles to come in the future:
Skyline
G35
next GTR
Z Car
Satgea Wagon
???
Does anyone know when the 350Z with 6 speed will be available? That is the $64,000 question.
Just pray they carry over the six-speed to the G35 from the Z. But we are looking at 10 months or more. Anything could happen. The market will change in that time.
So Volvo went out and found the tranny out of a Buick Skylark. Not the best Buick tranny, just the one that fits. The first turbos grenaded the trannys.I would really worry about this car outside the warranty period. Many Volvo fanatics say that the last Volvo was made in 2/98 (V90/S90.
No manual available (I guess they can't find a Buick manual tranny). I have a 1996 960 Wagon - last of the big Volvo RWD wagons. Because Ford has Volvo, the LS will not be exported to Europe.
Now when do you think the G35 will be here? The 350Z?
Glad to see the Lincoln LS "fanatics" and "crazies" (their own words) haven't expelled you from their ranks for disloyalty. Thought it interesting that your defense of the LS hinged on a ton of "IFs" and on a longer time frame than the G35. Who knows if the DEW lite platform will even be developed or if so, when. Ford ain't in good financial shape. Need to spend their time ensuring market share in trucks, SUVs, and minivans. Thankfully, the G35 will be here soon. And the press reports even sooner. Not to mention car shows. Praying it will be all that the early reports say. 270/280 hp and 6-speed manual. She'll eat up LS and CTS V-6s.
I think the Z will come out with a six-speed - then available later in the G35. Just like the IS300. I bet the tranny is still on the drawing boards. Unless someone has internal connections into Nissan corporate, we will just have to wait.
I can't afford two lease payments, but in June 2003, I will be looking for that six-speed G35. I don't have to concentrate too much on it now - I can't act anyway. I like the size of the LS and I hope the G is bigger than the IS300. For that kind of money, I want a comfortable car. My 965 Volvo was the widest Volvo made. The LS is the widest sports sedan I can afford. Almost as wide as a Hummer. I am a LS enthusiast but I think sports, religious and even car fanatics are small minded. I'm into digital cameras, video, audio, and computers so cars are just another interest. My car gets dirty and I don't kiss it every night. Who's got time? I have a family, job and a household to maintain. And my brain has only a 10mb hard drive (it's old).
And the Range Rover still has it unless Ford or BMW changed it. By now it's an old pushrod engine.
Rover charges a lot for old technology. Rover buyers buy image. Although their SUV's are great off-road, who needs it? I'm in San Diego. It hardly even rains here. In fact, I can't even remember when it last rained here. So when I see a Range Rover, I know it's just Yuppie scum, not a car person.
The IS300 site here has a link to Automotive.com info on plans for Japanese manufacturers. Mentions IS300 getting supercharged engine next spring. Also discusses G35 as having standard 5-speed automatic with CVT to follow. Didn't specifically mention manual transmission. Has me a bit nervous. stanny1, you might be right. Forgot to look what it says about 350Z. You should check out the IS300 board from today.
This tranny is from the 240HP Buick Regal GS/Pontiac Grand Prix GTP. It is rated for 280 lbs*ft of torque, that's exactly how much the Volvo's engine is making.
That's also how much torque the Regal GS/Grand Prix GTP are making. These cars have been running fine for a few years now with this tranny. I used to have a GTP for 3 years and never had any problems with the tranny.
There is talk that the toroidal-roller CVT introduced on the Nissan Cedric/Gloria Japanese-market models about a year ago has will be one of two standard transmissions for the G35, the other being a six-speed manual. Either way, the G35 will definitely be a major blast to drive. :-)
With that much power, the G35 is probably a much better competitor against the BMW 3-series than even the Lexus IS300.
However, in considering upscale replacements for winter/spring purchase, I have extensively test driven everything out there. Although I have no doubt that the new G35 will be able to give BMW a run for the money in the power/acceleration category, I have not driven any sedans from any other manufacturer that compare to the tight feel and handling of a BMW 3 or 5 series. Hopefully, in going with the rear drive layout for the G35, Infinity will focus as much engineering at achieving leading edge steering and handling as they are at power.
Just a wish to make my future decision even more difficult!
P.S. It is interesting that the new crop of "near-luxury" level sedans are coming out with horsepower ratings equal to or over previous generation Acura NSX's, BMW M3/M5's and other enthusiast cars.
Site allows you to register for future information. I did and can't wait to see what Infiniti starts sending me. Hoping I'll get something nice in mail over next couple months. I'm excited!
I wouldn't think that kind of horsepower is out of the realm of possibility for a 3.5 litre blown engine. Has anyone heard of anticipated mods for the Z car, or is it still too soon?
It seems like Nissan always has the high horsepower number, but straight line performance of their models doesn't seem to be in line with their hp advantage. Don't know if they are giving up torque for hp. (The BMW 540 has something like 280hp, but over 300 lb/ft of torque).
As to the new Manual LS - we haven't seen a mag test yet. But my Manual with the Borla and new air box mod should cut low sevens. It's incredible how the mags ignore manual tranny cars like the LS when only two cars are in that class.
It's the old BMW mystique - make a small # of true hipo cars but most buyers buy the appliance models with slush boxes and think it's hot stuff. But what do you want with a country where only 8% know what a real car is like, and many of those are FWD econoboxes. 92% buy automatics. At least in Europe, 88% know how to drive and know what a standard transmission is. I think it's so cute how all these people complain how their automatic transmission shifts. It's like the thermostat at work - no one's happy with the temperature. At least I know that if I'm not happy with the 3-2 shift down, I can look in the mirror and know who's doing the shifting. I don't have to E-mail some poor engineer in Detroit and complain about my programming.
The G35 is going to be a driver's car. To get the most out of it, don't get the automatic. It's like a 25 hp handicap. If you want an appliance, buy the Maxima. The FWD will make you feel right at home. You'll have to use traction control or your front tires will be history, especially with the six-speed. Traction control will slow you down, so the answer to begin with is RWD. So even a 400 hp Altima has a fatal flaw.
We know the 2003 LS V-6 is getting a boost to around 250. That's when my lease expires. I can get an 03 or 04. Or I can get a G35. By then I can see if the hp claims are true on both cars (since Nissan is having hp credibility problems) and if the G35 does indeed get a six-speed,LSD,etc. Right now its all vaporware.
Try to drive a 2002 LS Manual. Dealers don't like to stock them. And they take alot of break-in. I went head to head with a 2001 IS300 a couple of months ago and he couldn't lose me. Next time I will take the lead. The strategy with the LS is to keep the engine wound out and use the clutch as a semi-throttle. It's all in keeping the engine at it's torque peak. The Borla helps keep the engine from dropping rpm on the shift. The LS has a known breathing restriction because the exhaust system was not customized for the car, especially the V-6 in general and the Manual in particular. The only change for 2002 to achieve 10 additional hp was less restrictive mufflers and larger air box inlet area. I've gone beyond that.
The LS is a large car compared with the 3 series and IS300. If size is not important, the IS300 has tons of mod potential. Have you seen the IS300 enthusiast sites?
If you need to cap it at 25k, the Altima is probably the best compromise. In the 30k range, the G35 is the one to beat. Cars are like stereo equipment - it's what's best at each price point.
In the summer of 2000, I chose the LS Manual because it was the best larger Manual 4 door RWD for the money. The IS300 was not even on the radar screen. It's probably too boy-racer for me anyway. I have to take clients in my car and the LS has more space.
If anyone wants to start a comparison between the G35 and one or more of these other vehicles, please freel free to go over to our Comparisons - Sedans vs. Sedans folder and get one started.
Meanwhile, let's get back to the G35.
Stanny1 - My message is not entirely directed at your latest post - you at least made an attempt to keep us on topic, and I appreciate that.
I just want everyone here to remember this is not a comparison topic, and we can certainly entertain one if folks are interested as long as it is placed appropriately.
Thanks.
Pat
Host
Sedans Message Board
Thanks for the comment. You'd make a good attorney...focus,focus,focus.
Thanks for allowing me to rant.