I drove a used 2003 G35 two days ago and I'm hooked! I really like the car, with only one exception (see question 1 below). I'm considering purchasing a 2004 or maybe a 2005 G35 or G35x sedan. Here are my questions:

1) The parking/emergency brake down on the floorboard REALLY drives me nuts. Basically my left leg and shin kept hitting it. I drove a 2003 G35... do all the G35s have the parking brake on the floorboard, or do some have a hand brake in the center console? Is there a way to cut it off, modify it, or shorten it? Has anyone done this?

2) I would REALLY like to have a built-in MP3 player or at least an aux jack to plug in an iPod. It looks like the 2005 had an optional built-in MP3 player, but what options are available for aftermarket stereos or iPod connectors?

3) How much difference is there in the gas mileage between the G35 and the G35x? I live in the Midwest and it does snow a few months out of the year. Am I much better off with the G35x even with the reduced gas mileage?

Thanks in advance for any and all advice!