Hello All:

I don't make decisions quickly but I am looking at replacing my GTP in the next year or two with a G35S. My wife has a 2004 Maxima SE A5. I really like the way it drives/ handles. My question is, aside from the fact that it is front wheel drive vs. rear on the G, how much better is the driving experience in the G? I guess what I'm looking for is more of everything that the Maxima offers...crisper handling, better acceleration, more stopping power and more refinement. If I do make the purchase, I will be modding the car...engine, suspension, tires, wheels, int/exh. I think I want an automatic but am not convinced. What year vehicle should I look for, keeping all of the above in mind and why?

Thanks in advance for your helpfull comments.

Dean

 

the g35 has everything the maxima offers, but a little bit nicer quality materials and of course the infiniti name. its also a little easier to find most parts for since it shares most of everything(mechanical wise) with the 350z.

 

Expyater, when I went to buy a car there were two that the dealership had that I wanted to drive, a 2007 Maxima (loaded) and my 2005 G35x. Both had about the same miles (mid 20k), both were very nicely loaded and the price was differeance between the two was about $600. I drove the G first and loved how solid it felt and how quick it was. The G in my eyes, is a great balance between luxury and sport. I then drove the Maxima. I had a Max in the past and loved it. The ride isn't quite as nice but I know the Max has a sportier suspension. They also now have the CVT transmission so stick isn't even an option. Both cars have the auto stick feature but seriously ... what's the point. To tell you the truth, you have a 2004 Max, it probably handles about the same as a newer one. As far as mods go, there doesn't seem to be a ton of stuff out there for these cars (Max and G). But I just came off of owning a 350Z so pretty much every car out there has fewer mods (with the exception of the civic ... god i hate those). Ultimately the decision is up to you and the only way you can make that is to take each one for a spin. It would be great if you could find a dealer willing to let you have them for a few hours or even a day, that way you can really feel things out. I bought the G and I've put about 3k miles on it and absolutely love it. I drive it whenever my wife doesn't steal it. Good luck with your purchase and keep us posted if you have more questions. BTW, it's the same engine (which I'm sure you knew) and the G always has more power.

 

I had an '05 Maxima SE. Compared to the G, it was a physically larger car, handled like a boat and I hated the Torque steer when you floored it. I also wasn't a fan of the sunken in dash layout.