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And I think you get a true flavor of the comparison.
I didn't get the impression at all that they thought the RX8 was rated more highly just because of minor things like the transmission. Instead, the seemed to think the RX8 handled much more crisply, mainly due to 500 lbs (!) less weight. They also surprisingly found the back seat more habitable (mainly headroom), the extra doors made entry/exit much easier, and the RX8 was a lot cheaper.
OTOH, they did think that the RX8 really had to be flogged to get the power out. Keeping it above 6K RPM was required for quick running.
I think the pecking order is fairly clear - if you want a car with true sports car reflexes, you can't deny 500 lbs less weight - get the RX8. OTOH, if you want the more comfortable GT car with effortless thrust, the G35c is top dog.
The Getrag in my Lincoln LS MTX was notchy and slow shifting when new. I discovered that the recommended gear lube was either mineral Mercon auto tranny fluid or 10-30 mineral motor oil. After 5,000 break-in miles, I switched to Redline Synthetic D4 Auto trans fluid in the winter and in the Summer I install a 50-50 mix of the Redline D4 and Redline MTL Manual Tranny Lube. What a difference! Faster and smoother shifting. AMSOIL also makes a 100% Synthetic Universal Auto Tranny Fluid that is excellent but harder to find. Can anyone with a MTX G35 tell us what fluid/lube is recommended for the 6 speed?
do you change out the fluids right away, or wait till you get to certain mileage, or what? (I've heard different recommendations.) Redline sure did the trick on my previous cars, btw. I also had good luck with it in the rear differential and may make the change all the way through.
I changed the tranny only, as the differential has some kind of silicone fluid from the factory. I use Mobil 1 in the engine and get it from Costco. I've seen test results that place AMSOIL above Mobil 1 but AMSOIL is so hard to get here in San Diego, as well as more expensive with shipping included. Redline fluids are $10.00 a quart, but the Getrag only takes 1.1 quarts. I change them 2x a year, and I left the stock Dino oil in the tranny for about 5k before the change to Redline. Trannies don't need the same break-in as an engine,
my G35 Coupe on Monday. I have to wait til next week to get it - it was the ONLY one left at the dealership (besides their test drive car), and it's their showroom car, so can't take it til they get one to replace it. It's Brlt. Slvr w/ Aero and Tire Pkg. Unreal. The most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
BTW, I am also a stepfather to an 8 yo., and I was amazed at the safety features and child features the car had (curtain airbigs, LATCH system for childseats). There's nothing wrong with driving the car with a child in the back - it's much better than a friggin SUV or minivan.
Also, I'm curious as to the supply/demand for this car in other areas. In Chicago area, they are GONE. There is a list to be on a list - it's crazy! I really lucked out in finding this one.
There are 12000 scheduled for the US this year. Delivery is already in the 10000 range. I've heard Infiniti has added an extra 3000 to the schedule so there will be enough to get through till the 04. They also notified the dealers of a price hike by $150 or so effective this spring. It is widely assumed that there will be a larger increase with some interior upgrades for next year.
Did you get the manual? Fewer are available. Enjoy.
I can think of a few good reasons to wait until the 2004 model year to pick up a G35C: 1. The interior designers at Infiniti might come to their senses and replace that silver plastic on the dash with some real aluminum trim. 2. Demand will probably be lower by this time next year, making selection and negotiating prices much more favorable for the consumer. 3. More interior color choices might be available. The brick interior from the FX series would look sweet on a laser red G35C.
1. At least in the Chicagoland area, MSRP is the norm. I heard some dealerships are even asking for a few hundred above MSRP.
2. Incentives? C'mon - it's all about supply and demand. The demand is much larger than the supply right now - there is absolutely no reason for Infiniti to offer incentives when they can't even keep the cars on their lots!
3. Yes, the gas expense will stink. 93 octane is required, and it ain't cheap!
I wish I had the patience to wait til 2004 to buy one. In a year the price will be much more negotiable, and like a few above me said, I bet they improve the interior. But oh well - I've been wanting one since June of 2002, at least I waited almost a year! I couldn't wait any longer when I saw that Brilliant Silver coupe sitting in the showroom.
Karlw90, way to go on the will power of holding out ;-). Yeah, pretty obvious point about the incentives, heheh. I've been tracking the inventory at the dealer in Lisle and another (forget the town) near my area, and they've been dissapearing and reappearing.
I'm thinking of waiting a few months before I decide, with all of this war stuff going on and also job security at where I work is not that great.
I think I saw a G35 Coupe on the road the other day. It was silver and caught my eye immediately because it was something "new", kinda like when you see a Porcshe or other "rare" car on the road, it just grabbed my attention. It turned right coming from the other direction, and all I really saw was a blurr. hah
On the way to the autoshow. All of them were silver. That's the color I would want if/when I were to order one. That car looks awesome going down the road.
They had a sedan with the Aero kit at the show too. Very nice.
I came across this picture with a black colored dash layout instead of the silver one they have now and loved it way more. Anyone know how to get the black console? thanks take a look for urself
Did you take a look at the picture? I was looking at the area surrounding the stereo and climate control the one that is all silver in the link i sent in posting 1184 it is all black instead of silver. I went to the dealership on friday and sat in a AT one with leather that automatically means there is the 18 inch rims. ARe you sure of this? Thanks
1. Is southern California having allocation problems--coupe availability seems rare especially in San Diego. The dealers in Pennsylvania seem to have coupes ready to go!!
2. Will a bike rack fit on the rear of the coupe with a spoiler and without a spoiler??
3. Does anyone know the production numbers for the G35 Coupe in all trim levels.
The AT/leather comes with 17" wheels. Many (most?) have a sport wheel/tire pkg. upgrade which adds the painted silver console. Check the prices on Edmunds or at Infiniti.com
..wow what a different car to drive. I have to get used to the power, and those xenon headlights at night. You're not supposed to take it over 4000rpm for the first 1200 miles, but it's tough since everytime you hit the gas it tries to go there and then some!
I love the car but I can already tell you I don't like the access to the back seat. You fold your seat down, and it takes what like seems forever for the power seat to move forward. Then, when you fold you seat back, it doesn't go back to where you had set it! So you have to re-configure everytime. Looks like I'll be using the trunk to store my gym bag rather than the back seat.
I can't wait to get 1200 or so miles on my car so I can really drive the thing. Only 1170 more miles to go!
man that is all talk not being able to drive your car above 4000 rpm's this is 2003 these cars are built for this especially Nissan made cars. They just recommend that so you don't drive fast...
Anyone know improvements that will be done to the 04 G35 Coupe? I am not too fond of the interior materials or the color choices besides diamond graphite...hg (higuy)
I disagree that this is a fictional limit to keep you from driving fast. Infiniti doesn't care how fast you drive. They don't want to replace your engine under warranty if you don't break it in properly.
Robmarch is correct. Infiniti wants you to be happy...but if they suggest a limit...it is wise to follow it. They are underwriting engine repairs.
Now the salesman, or the PhD service writer may tell you something else, but they have both less knowledge, and different motives. The former wants to sell you the car and the latter makes money from warranty engine repairs.
Of course, if you like the hassle of bringing the car back to the dealer for repairs...let'er rip.
The best guess is that they may be announced in April or thereabouts. Keep track of the auto shows -- New York for example. Orders should be taken in June/July for October/Nov availability.
None of this is fact but can be presumed from the way Nissan handles its releases. Upgrades for the '04 are also presumed to be interior upgrades with about a $1000-$1500 increase in price.
I agree that, if you like gray, the diamond graphite is probably the best.
I'm hoping for interior upgrades as well, just so we can quiet the folks who like to count that as a big neg compared to BMW and Audi. As for colors, I'm hoping for the diamond graphite to be offered on the sedan, as that is my first choice. What looks better on the inside of the diamond graphite? The graphite leather or the willow leather?
Anyone know of any places where you can get replacement console kits for the g35 coupe can't stand the silver one it comes with now...Can you get the aluminum brushed one? thanks
The titanium console looks like aluminum in color but is actually paint on the std. black console.
There is of course, for those without 18" wheels, the standard black plastic console, or willow console if you have the willow package.
Brushed aluminum is available if you purchase a flat, applique kit aftermarket and apply it. But these don't wrap around to cover the sides. There is also a 'dip' process you can get some places that comes out glossy if you remove the console and send it to these places.
And yes, it is theoretically possible to replace the console. The Infiniti dealer has the part numbers for the console and you can order the plain black version and install it. This, however, would be very expensive.
In fact, if it bothers you that much, I'd recommend forgetting about the car and go get an Audi or Lexus. This car is cheap relative to its performance for those who want its performance. There are many nice cars on the market for those who prefer luxury features and are willing to give up the performance.
If you want both luxury and performance, come up with another several thousand dollars: again, there are several really nice cars available, but not at this price.
I find it interesting as to how many people would decide against the car based solely on a single piece of plastic console trim. Come on people, it's just a piece of trim....paint it, replace it, cover it in leather, make a new one out of wood, but just get over it and enjoy the rest of the car, for god sakes! If that turns out to be the biggest ailment with the G35, it should be a big success!
I'm curious about the expenses of owning this car. Aside from the premium gas, what about oil changes? Does it need to be done at a dealer? Anything else I'm not thinking of? Insurance wise, I got a quote of 540 for 6months.
Lots of people seem to be doing them themselves, especially putting in synthetic oils. The only trick to changing the oil is that an air deflector beneath the engine has to be removed with several screws before the oil change.
Also of interest: the car has a timing chain and that means lower maintenance costs.
of a timing belt vs. a chain aren't apparent until around 100,000 miles these days. And if the engine is interference I would still consider changing the chain around 120,000 just to be safe.
What makes that happen? Are the links actually stretching? Is it just a noise problem or can you run 1000's of miles with the noise? At what point does it become more than a noise problem? How can you tell that it is becoming more than just a noise problem?
Yep, chain can stretch, chain guides or tensioner can wear. I've even seen chain guides collapse and bind the engine. Usually the chain kicks up a fair racket though and you know it's time to do something. A slack chain will also affect performance somewhat, could even cause pinging in rare cases I'm told.
A lot depends on the chain design and support system. I don't know how the G35 is set up.
How many people actually keep a car forover 100,000 miles. I'm sure the vast majority of g35's will be traded for the "next great thing" long before the savings will be realized.
My current car is a 1990 Mustang GT Convertible with 120k. I would never sell a car with less than 100k and am now buying cars that I am sure I can get 200k on. People that just like to have the latest greatest thing every 3-5 years just spend too much money on cars. Some of us has kids to raise and put through college.
Saves a bundle. Figger I'll get a Gee in about 4-6 years. Tired of paying all the depreciation. Plus there are some NICE 7 year old cars out there for CHEAP.
and keeping for a long time is cheaper than buying used. You have to pay for too many repairs out of warranty and its not as dependable at that point. You also can't keep it for as long and have to rebuy alot quicker. Money is alot cheaper to borrow on a new car too.
I guess I'm not normal either. I have a 95 Maxima w/ 136k miles and am having a difficult time foreseeing when I will turn it in for the "next great thing". I did digress from frugality a bit by buying an S2000 as a fun car, but only after I looked at the 2-3 year resale and concluded that, after taxes (it's now replaced the fully depreciated Maxima as my official company car) it wouldn't cost me much. As for keeping the Maxima, it hasn't hurt that as Nissan/Infiniti increased horsepower about 50% since 1995, they've only increased real world performance about 5%. So I'm not sure the next great thing is even out there, unless I want to pop for a 5-series.
The G35 is NOT a car I would buy if I were inclined to trade every 3-5 years. Positive attributes notwithstanding, Infiniti has had historically horrific resale values. The upscale I35 sells for less as a used car than it's cheaper Maxima SE cousin. Two friends with J30's ended up keeping the cars long after they got the itch for the "next great thing" because they couldn't bear to take the depreciation hit. One just turned 160k miles and hasn't had a lick of trouble, but he still resents becoming a "lifer" due to poor Infiniti resale. A BMW 3-series is a lot easier to trade every 3-5 years without getting whumped on resale.
I'm not so sure the G coupe is the same as a J30, or I30. I might even concede on the sedan, although I believe the resale value will be much better than previous infiniti vehicles.
My experience is that if one drives above average # of miles, it makes sense to either sell your car every 3 years or keep it until it dies. The people that get hurt are the ones that wait 5 years or so, because they now have 80-100K miles, and regardless of brand, people are willing to pay only so much for a car with a lot of miles. Scanning cars.com, I noticed very few high mileage BMW's. I searched zip 10541 - 75 mile radius. A 1998 328is with 73,000 miles was listed at $17,995. I'm not sure how much they were new, but I assume close to 40K? That's $4400 a year (not including lost tax and loan interest). Meanwhile, the comparable 2000 model cars with 45,000 miles (the same 15K miles per year) are going for around $26K; that's almost the same depreciation (per year) as the person who waited 2 more years to sell his car. There is little difference in waiting to sell your car (except that the amount you pay for tax and interest is eaten up over 3 years in lieu of 5 or whenever you sell) and you have the benefit of not having to pay for any repairs.....as long as you have a car with a good resale value (Honda, BMW, and, I predict, the G coupe).
that 5 years and 80,000+ miles is a no-mans land for resale. To new to write off and too old to get a good price.
But when I look in the Washington Post at what 3 year old <40k mile cars are selling for, Infinitis still take a much bigger hit (%- wise) than BMW's or Mercedes. My Maxima would have taken a bigger hit than a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry as well. Fortunately, it was a superior car IMO and I haven't minded keeping it for 8+ years.
It will be interesting to see how the new G's fare. One problem with Nissan / Infiniti in general is that they are always face lifting this and redesigning that and then come up with new models every 4-5 years. That has to affect resale a bit, compared to say BMW or Mercedes where models usually have at least a 6-7+ year lifespan. A 1996 E320 still looks pretty fresh.
and people like most of the posters here apparently make hay out of them.
I do it a little different.
I have two cars -- one is a daily driver. I buy them a year or two out and keep them until I have to carry them out in a bucket. Since I like cars that are also enjoyable to drive, I have to get cars that combine some minimum performance with reliability for this to work: I had an '89 Maxima for 237,000 miles (sold it to a kid who still has it!). I'm in an Acura now.
My other car is a toy. Weekends and, on days like this, when I play hooky. I started with a Miata (A '92 in '94). And in these cars my interest goes up and down pretty rapidly. I usually keep them a year or 18 months. Today I played hooky and went to look, with a friend of mine, to Boston Sports Car to look at a 356 Cabriolet ('64) and a 328GTS ('88). Tempted by each of them. Notice neither is new. All of these are cars I couldn't afford to drive if they were new.
I understand the charm of a new car, but to me they're a 'sucker play.' No insult to anyone meant, but I've always had richer tastes than my wallet could deal with. Buying used gives me a chance to indulge a little bit.
If I buy a G, it'll be next year or the year after. It'll be loaded and I'll pay somewhere around $25000. It'll be driven for a number of years at about 18000 to 20000 miles/yr.
"5 years and 80,000+ miles is a no-mans land for resale" is not a true statement in my opinion. Its hard to get much of a deal on trade-in after that but you can get a private party to buy a car like that all day long. I sold my 1995 customized Chevy Astro last year with 113,000 miles on it for $8,000. I originally bought it for $20,000. That is 60% depreciation over 7 years and only 10 cents/mile. It seems pretty good to me.
Definately, buying a new car is not worth it unless you plan to keep it for a long time. I dunno, I figure at least 5 years.
I paid about 24K including tax for a grand prix 2 years ago, and now it's worth 9500. I paid the car off 2 years earlier and put the remaining balance on a 0% interest credit card which I'll pay off by the end of the year.
Personally I'm fighting not to buy a G35C, because in this economy my job is not 100% secure and I rather have a big savings in case I'm out of work, instead of a less savings. It would be funny to be driving around with a brand new sports coupe with no job for 6 months .
We all know the reality of the situation. We buys these things because we want them, not because they're worth the money. They're a total loss as soon as you roll off the lot with it.
I just think that you should get the car you really like because then you're likely to keep it longer.
But, do "sports" cars like the G35c remain reliable after 5+ years? It seems that a high-performance engine would burn itself out sooner or something, or would likely have some major issue earlier than a more modest automobile.
Now that is a ludicrous statement. I have a 1990 Ford Mustang that I have had since brand new. I intend to take a G35, if that's what I decide on, for 20 years or 200k miles. Depreciation is no factor whatsoever to me.
I do share you concern about the economy though and that's one reason why I am also waiting.
A Ford Mustang has nothing on the electronics that are on todays cars. Most engines will go the distance, it's everything else that will fall apart. I do not believe the computers, sensors, all electric interiors, sunroof, door locks, windows, power seats, upholstery, electric mirrors, engine control modules, ABS, TCS sensors, Nav, etc. can go the distance on any car without maintenance, replacement and repair. Owning a loaded 2003 G35 for 10 years, with absolutely everything working to spec, without replacement parts for any component, is going be near impossible. And I cite BMWs in the same categories. Not to mention in the Northeast with the massive amounts of salt and potholes on the roads body corrosion will force many cars into early retirement.
Comments
I didn't get the impression at all that they thought the RX8 was rated more highly just because of minor things like the transmission. Instead, the seemed to think the RX8 handled much more crisply, mainly due to 500 lbs (!) less weight. They also surprisingly found the back seat more habitable (mainly headroom), the extra doors made entry/exit much easier, and the RX8 was a lot cheaper.
OTOH, they did think that the RX8 really had to be flogged to get the power out. Keeping it above 6K RPM was required for quick running.
I think the pecking order is fairly clear - if you want a car with true sports car reflexes, you can't deny 500 lbs less weight - get the RX8. OTOH, if you want the more comfortable GT car with effortless thrust, the G35c is top dog.
- Mark
After 5,000 break-in miles, I switched to Redline Synthetic D4 Auto trans fluid in the winter and in the Summer I install a 50-50 mix of the Redline D4 and Redline MTL Manual Tranny Lube.
What a difference! Faster and smoother shifting.
AMSOIL also makes a 100% Synthetic Universal Auto Tranny Fluid that is excellent but harder to find.
Can anyone with a MTX G35 tell us what fluid/lube is recommended for the 6 speed?
JW
I use Mobil 1 in the engine and get it from Costco.
I've seen test results that place AMSOIL above Mobil 1 but AMSOIL is so hard to get here in San Diego, as well as more expensive with shipping included.
Redline fluids are $10.00 a quart, but the Getrag only takes 1.1 quarts. I change them 2x a year, and I left the stock Dino oil in the tranny for about 5k before the change to Redline. Trannies don't need the same break-in as an engine,
BTW, I am also a stepfather to an 8 yo., and I was amazed at the safety features and child features the car had (curtain airbigs, LATCH system for childseats). There's nothing wrong with driving the car with a child in the back - it's much better than a friggin SUV or minivan.
Also, I'm curious as to the supply/demand for this car in other areas. In Chicago area, they are GONE. There is a list to be on a list - it's crazy! I really lucked out in finding this one.
I'll report back when I pick it up.
Did you get the manual? Fewer are available. Enjoy.
JW
1. Seems you can't get below MSRP, is that true?
2. No incentives!! C'mon, where's that "bad economy" incentive or something? The world could be ending and we won't get any incentives?
3. Gas guzzler on the verge of skyrocketing gas prices.
4. Break my piggy bank, though not saying it's expensive.
5. When are 2004 models released with the "newer" interior? Do they come out before Jan, 2004, or after?
Ugh, gime an excuse, please.
1. The interior designers at Infiniti might come to their senses and replace that silver plastic on the dash with some real aluminum trim.
2. Demand will probably be lower by this time next year, making selection and negotiating prices much more favorable for the consumer.
3. More interior color choices might be available. The brick interior from the FX series would look sweet on a laser red G35C.
2. Incentives? C'mon - it's all about supply and demand. The demand is much larger than the supply right now - there is absolutely no reason for Infiniti to offer incentives when they can't even keep the cars on their lots!
3. Yes, the gas expense will stink. 93 octane is required, and it ain't cheap!
I wish I had the patience to wait til 2004 to buy one. In a year the price will be much more negotiable, and like a few above me said, I bet they improve the interior. But oh well - I've been wanting one since June of 2002, at least I waited almost a year! I couldn't wait any longer when I saw that Brilliant Silver coupe sitting in the showroom.
I'm thinking of waiting a few months before I decide, with all of this war stuff going on and also job security at where I work is not that great.
I think I saw a G35 Coupe on the road the other day. It was silver and caught my eye immediately because it was something "new", kinda like when you see a Porcshe or other "rare" car on the road, it just grabbed my attention. It turned right coming from the other direction, and all I really saw was a blurr. hah
They had a sedan with the Aero kit at the show too. Very nice.
http://www.carad.com/photo_manager2/dsp_pho_img.cfm?img=http
JW
2. Will a bike rack fit on the rear of the coupe with a spoiler and without a spoiler??
3. Does anyone know the production numbers for the G35 Coupe in all trim levels.
JW
I love the car but I can already tell you I don't like the access to the back seat. You fold your seat down, and it takes what like seems forever for the power seat to move forward. Then, when you fold you seat back, it doesn't go back to where you had set it! So you have to re-configure everytime. Looks like I'll be using the trunk to store my gym bag rather than the back seat.
I can't wait to get 1200 or so miles on my car so I can really drive the thing. Only 1170 more miles to go!
Have fun
Now the salesman, or the PhD service writer may tell you something else, but they have both less knowledge, and different motives. The former wants to sell you the car and the latter makes money from warranty engine repairs.
Of course, if you like the hassle of bringing the car back to the dealer for repairs...let'er rip.
None of this is fact but can be presumed from the way Nissan handles its releases. Upgrades for the '04 are also presumed to be interior upgrades with about a $1000-$1500 increase in price.
I agree that, if you like gray, the diamond graphite is probably the best.
JW
The titanium console looks like aluminum in color but is actually paint on the std. black console.
There is of course, for those without 18" wheels, the standard black plastic console, or willow console if you have the willow package.
Brushed aluminum is available if you purchase a flat, applique kit aftermarket and apply it. But these don't wrap around to cover the sides. There is also a 'dip' process you can get some places that comes out glossy if you remove the console and send it to these places.
And yes, it is theoretically possible to replace the console. The Infiniti dealer has the part numbers for the console and you can order the plain black version and install it. This, however, would be very expensive.
In fact, if it bothers you that much, I'd recommend forgetting about the car and go get an Audi or Lexus. This car is cheap relative to its performance for those who want its performance. There are many nice cars on the market for those who prefer luxury features and are willing to give up the performance.
If you want both luxury and performance, come up with another several thousand dollars: again, there are several really nice cars available, but not at this price.
JW
There ain't no free lunch.
If the A6 was reliable or the LS still had a manual and was serviced by the likes of Infiniti dealers, things might be different.
Thanks!
Also of interest: the car has a timing chain and that means lower maintenance costs.
JW
(I personally have two Maxima's, one with 192,xxx miles and another with 123,xxx miles, both on the original timing chains.)
Under no circumstance would I open up a perfectly fine engine for major surgery at 120k, it's simply not necessary!
A lot depends on the chain design and support system. I don't know how the G35 is set up.
The G35 is NOT a car I would buy if I were inclined to trade every 3-5 years. Positive attributes notwithstanding, Infiniti has had historically horrific resale values. The upscale I35 sells for less as a used car than it's cheaper Maxima SE cousin. Two friends with J30's ended up keeping the cars long after they got the itch for the "next great thing" because they couldn't bear to take the depreciation hit. One just turned 160k miles and hasn't had a lick of trouble, but he still resents becoming a "lifer" due to poor Infiniti resale. A BMW 3-series is a lot easier to trade every 3-5 years without getting whumped on resale.
My experience is that if one drives above average # of miles, it makes sense to either sell your car every 3 years or keep it until it dies. The people that get hurt are the ones that wait 5 years or so, because they now have 80-100K miles, and regardless of brand, people are willing to pay only so much for a car with a lot of miles. Scanning cars.com, I noticed very few high mileage BMW's. I searched zip 10541 - 75 mile radius. A 1998 328is with 73,000 miles was listed at $17,995. I'm not sure how much they were new, but I assume close to 40K? That's $4400 a year (not including lost tax and loan interest). Meanwhile, the comparable 2000 model cars with 45,000 miles (the same 15K miles per year) are going for around $26K; that's almost the same depreciation (per year) as the person who waited 2 more years to sell his car. There is little difference in waiting to sell your car (except that the amount you pay for tax and interest is eaten up over 3 years in lieu of 5 or whenever you sell) and you have the benefit of not having to pay for any repairs.....as long as you have a car with a good resale value (Honda, BMW, and, I predict, the G coupe).
But when I look in the Washington Post at what 3 year old <40k mile cars are selling for, Infinitis still take a much bigger hit (%- wise) than BMW's or Mercedes. My Maxima would have taken a bigger hit than a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry as well. Fortunately, it was a superior car IMO and I haven't minded keeping it for 8+ years.
It will be interesting to see how the new G's fare. One problem with Nissan / Infiniti in general is that they are always face lifting this and redesigning that and then come up with new models every 4-5 years. That has to affect resale a bit, compared to say BMW or Mercedes where models usually have at least a 6-7+ year lifespan. A 1996 E320 still looks pretty fresh.
I do it a little different.
I have two cars -- one is a daily driver. I buy them a year or two out and keep them until I have to carry them out in a bucket. Since I like cars that are also enjoyable to drive, I have to get cars that combine some minimum performance with reliability for this to work: I had an '89 Maxima for 237,000 miles (sold it to a kid who still has it!). I'm in an Acura now.
My other car is a toy. Weekends and, on days like this, when I play hooky. I started with a Miata (A '92 in '94). And in these cars my interest goes up and down pretty rapidly. I usually keep them a year or 18 months. Today I played hooky and went to look, with a friend of mine, to Boston Sports Car to look at a 356 Cabriolet ('64) and a 328GTS ('88). Tempted by each of them. Notice neither is new. All of these are cars I couldn't afford to drive if they were new.
I understand the charm of a new car, but to me they're a 'sucker play.' No insult to anyone meant, but I've always had richer tastes than my wallet could deal with. Buying used gives me a chance to indulge a little bit.
If I buy a G, it'll be next year or the year after. It'll be loaded and I'll pay somewhere around $25000. It'll be driven for a number of years at about 18000 to 20000 miles/yr.
JW
JW
I paid about 24K including tax for a grand prix 2 years ago, and now it's worth 9500. I paid the car off 2 years earlier and put the remaining balance on a 0% interest credit card which I'll pay off by the end of the year.
Personally I'm fighting not to buy a G35C, because in this economy my job is not 100% secure and I rather have a big savings in case I'm out of work, instead of a less savings. It would be funny to be driving around with a brand new sports coupe with no job for 6 months
We all know the reality of the situation. We buys these things because we want them, not because they're worth the money. They're a total loss as soon as you roll off the lot with it.
I just think that you should get the car you really like because then you're likely to keep it longer.
But, do "sports" cars like the G35c remain reliable after 5+ years? It seems that a high-performance engine would burn itself out sooner or something, or would likely have some major issue earlier than a more modest automobile.
I do share you concern about the economy though and that's one reason why I am also waiting.