I have it narrowed down to these two cars, I just want to confirm that I am not missing another possibility.

I looked the the 3-series from BWM and the C-Class from Mercedes. It seems like anything comparable engine wise, as well as features to the TL and G35 rund above 40,000, which leaves this out of the question.

I researched the Lexus ES330, never drove it but heard it was basically a Camary, with a very refined interior, and had very slow 0-60 times.

The Audi A4 comparably equipped was above 40,000, and I am not really impressed with the Volve S60 or Jag X-Type.

Just interested if anyone who bought the G35 was seriously considering any other automobiles that I may not have considered.

Thanks.

 

You are realizing what most of us already have. The G is the most car for the money of anything on the road.

 

Most of the Europeans are going to offer less power for the money.

 

The only other car worth mentioning is the new 2005 Subaru Legacy GT ltd.
It's turbo 260 hp. With the manual, it reaches 60 in 5.7 secs, faster than a Porsche boxter. The new interior is very nice and luxurious, with a really cool electroluminescent dash. The all wheel drive is nice to have too. Maximally loaded it will run about $31,000.

The down sides: The seats didn't feel comfortable to me. The stock stereo $ucked big time and would absolutely have to be replaced. The doors didn't feel as solid to me as the G35's. As nice as the interior is, it's no match for the TL.

I'm going to go with the G35x myself, but for the money, the Legacy GT is pretty sweet.

 

Maxima? - Many don't like its looks.
Altima SE? - Loaded for $10k less but FWD.
Mustang GT? - C&D 10Best; 0-60 in 5.1; $25k

 

I'd actually look at the Pontiac GTO. Lots of horsepower, rear drive, independent rear suspension, incredible exhaust note, six speed trans, and a nice interior. And, from what I hear, they're practically giving them away right now. Now, the looks are nothing special, and it does wear a Pontiac badge, but it's actually a Holden Monaro. I'd certainly test drive one.

 

After many days of dealer visits, internet searches, and monetary calculation I came to the same conclusion as others. There really isn't anything else out there with the combination of refinement and performance than the g. I am a current owner of a 02 Subaru WRX and I test drove the Legacy. It is a nice care and the dealer is great but it just didn't seem to stack up to the Infiniti. After test driving the G it is clear to me that it is worth the extra bucks over the Legacy. Just my humble opinion.

Living in a snowing area the local dealer doesn't have any 6 speeds. I had to order an 05 and I don't know if I am going to survive the wait.

 

I would go with the 04TL because the interior is SO much better than the G35sedan. If you are going to race and tune the car for max power get the G35.
But if you going to buy a coupe it would be the G35 all the way.
Also you might want to check out the new GS from Lexus or even the current IS, you might be able to pull off with a deal on the IS since its getting redisigned.

 

You've covered all bases there mate, apart form the LegacyGT and I think you know what it's going to be?

Enjoy your new G35 sedan, you have made an excellent choice.

 

'SO much better' than the '04, buy only 'better' than the '05 G35...

I looked pretty seriously at an S60-R and used '04 S4 before settling on the G35.

 

If I wasn't into cars and driving them, and I drove tons of miles on the freeway, I'd buy an ES330, its basically the most comfortable couch on wheels. I love the car, if I can't afford an LS430 when I am 75, I'd definatley get it.

 

If what you are looking for is a RWD sedan with good power, give the Dodge Charger (optional V-8) a chance too. I don't know much about the chassis/suspension and I'd be surprised if it could hold a candle to the incredible sophistication of the skyline front midship platform. But again, I'd give it a test drive.

 

I was interested in the ES330 and test drove it. I also drove the GS300 but it was to expensive for me. Toyota was accross the street and I decided to see what they had. Now, don't laugh. I test drove the Toyota Avalon. It is a really boring looking car although the dash design was interesting. Not a speed racer of any sort. But , I have to say, quality wise, it was excellent. Nikk6 called the ES330 the most comfortable couch on wheels. I agree some what. However it has some great competiton. The GS 300 was like drivng a couch(although priced higher than the G) and the Avalon was second place and priced around the G35, maybe slightly less. The feeling of serenity, quiet isolation and kind of like floating on the road was amazing. The front bucket seats were large and extremely comfortable, like sitting in your favorite leather chair at home. The audio system in the Avalon was not bad, can't remember what brand it was...maybe pioneer? But overall, I did not think I was truely ready for no excitement and just refinement. For those of you looking for excitement, the G has it. If you just want reliability and comfortable quiet touring after a grueling day at the office or long days on the road, check out the Toyota and be surprised.

 

FYI on the Avalon, the new redesign should start rolling off the assembly line some time this month. Significant power increase. As the marketing reps at my company now drive Avalons, I had to laugh when a magazine described it as "the Japanese Buick". While not stylish or inspiring to drive, the Avalon is highly reliable with a luxurious ride at a good price.

 

A loaded 300C is less than 40K and has a few more options than the G.