G35 Sedan V35 2003-06 Discussion about the 1st Generation V35 G35 Sedan

g35 handling vs bmw 3 series

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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 04:14 AM
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g35 handling vs bmw 3 series

How does a g35x sedan handles compared to a bmw 330xi sedan?

I had a couple of quick test drives on both cars and the 330xi felt a bit more stiff but those
test drives were too short and I could't get enough speed to really judge between the two.

Looking to buy one of those cars(2005 models) and leaning towards the g35x because of better reliabitity and larger interior and trunk but would that be in detriment of better handling at higher speed?

Anyone has experiences driving these two models?

If the bmw is better, would upgrading suspension and sway bars on the G make it as good as the bimmer?

Will be riding mainly on highways with lots of twisties and hills.


Thanxs
 
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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 06:09 AM
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I test drove a 05 xi and 05 G35X same day. The xi seemed like you said stiff hard ride. The sound of the exhaust didnt sound good either.They were only 5 minute test drives.The G35 X felt and sounded much better not to mention build quaility better! Needless to say l bought the G35X! Im glad l did too. It seems like
there is a bmw everywhere in my neighborhood! Very few Infiniti's. The g35x is a very good handling car! Hotchkis sway bars will make the x awesome.l plan on getting them a 5/16 spacer z-tube and a tune.and be done modifying her.
 

Last edited by Gman56; Nov 25, 2013 at 06:15 AM.
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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 12:10 PM
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If you're looking for a car to take to the track, take the bimmer. If you want a more reliable car for everyday use, get the G35.

If you are serious about track racing enough that the difference between the two is significant, get the G35 and a Miata.

The handling on the G35 is very good for anything legal (and a little beyond) on the street.
 
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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 01:14 PM
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If you don't mind the little extra maintenance, get the BMW as nothing really rides or drives like a BMW.

The Infiniti will be a little more straight forward maintenance wise and is always a safe choice.

That being said, back in 2007 I was comparing a 2004 BMW 330i sedan 6MT ZHP and a 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan 5AT. I ended up buying the 05 G, starting my Infiniti fascination and eventually ended up replacing that with a 08 G35S 6MT and now my 2013 G37xS. To this day, i regret not buying that ZHP BMW and just getting my euro fix on sooner, but I was young and afraid of the maintenance cost and general stigma associated with used european cars. Now that I am older and a little bit more 'aware' of european cars and their costs, I am no longer afraid and plan on replacing my G with a 3 series once the lease is up. Along with getting almost to the point of signing the papers on that 04 330i, I almost bought a 2005 Audi S4 6MT before my 08 G35S and regret that decision as well... but whatever, live and learn lol.

Thats my two cents though. Just make sure to do your research and have whatever car your looking at inspected. Pick the car that contains the aspects that you value. Maintenance will be a smidge more expensive on the BMW but you are rewarded with an incredible driving experience. The Infinitis are a very safe bet and will always be there for you and (generally) don't leave you stranded.

Either way, you are picking a fabulous car. Have fun!
 
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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 01:20 PM
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The BMW is the better performance car, the G35 is the better everyday car. The BMW will also hold it's value better, but you will pay more in maintenance.
 
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Old Nov 25, 2013 | 11:36 PM
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Are you looking at buying one those specific cars you test drove? Maintenance costs are too general of a reason not to buy or buy a car. You may have no idea who the previous owner was or what they did with the car. Or if the two rear wheel bearings on the G35 you just bought will snap in 7 months. Well that's a $600 repair if you don't know how to do it yourself. Meanwhile that 3 series made it to 2 years without an issue.

All cars have their problems and it's up to you to decide how long you want to drive the car without fixing them. Most people on this forum think they have reliable cars or don't even know how to work on it so just dish $$ on repairs. If you think maintenance is really that important to you and your buying a 10 year old car, hopefully you have 2k on reserve for repairs- no matter what car.

Or you may find yourself buying or leasing a new car every 3 years because you think it's cheaper than repairs. You decide on what chance you wanna take with it. Seems like if you are set on handling, both are going to handle fine on the street, I mean they are not 4Runners. If you want handling so you can abuse the car then that's where that 2K is used.
 
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Old Nov 26, 2013 | 03:51 PM
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an g35 AWD to 330 AWD. i would take the G35x.

Now if you are speaking in terms of 335x to g35x/g37x. i would get the 335 and maybe that new 3 series turbo ( i think its the new 328)

The V35 chassis to me is a better all around then the E46 but not the E90.

Dont be a badge ***** if you cant afford to pay the price to keep up with a car. But in the end you being happy is priceless, even if it MIGHT cost you $1000 every month.
 
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Old Nov 26, 2013 | 05:01 PM
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My sedan with coupe 19s Michelin pilot sports, Z springs, Konis, and Hotckis sways was a better riding and similar handling to my buddies 2005-ish M3. But the BMW reved way better than the VQ35
 
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Old Nov 26, 2013 | 05:43 PM
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I own a 2005 BMW 330CI and had a 2003 G35 Coupe now have a 2006 M45 and have ridden in a number of G35 Sedans. BMW are notorious for stiff rides but its not harsh what so ever. Personally I love the way the seats holds me in my seat and the suspension set up in the BMW. BMW corner out of the box like a dream and feels light on its toes even with less power, but if you want luxury get the G35 as they are more luxurious on the insides unless you find the rare ZHP model.

My 2005 BMW ZHP came stock with Alcantar seats and carbon fiber trim but we payed like 7k more than a regular 325 for the upgraded motor, wheels, interior and exterior.

As a daily drive I wont even mention a M3 because theirs suspension is just harsh especially if you ride in the back seat.
 
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Old Nov 26, 2013 | 06:24 PM
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Yup. The M3 suspension was like riding in a modded G35. I can't believe make the M3 even stiffer
 
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Old Nov 27, 2013 | 11:20 AM
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even though the G35x handles well, it does tend to push a bit in the corners. Some guys with 2nd gens claim a RWD sway bar does help bring the balance to more nuetral feel. Unsure if anyone with a 1st gen gas tried this.

Can't comment on BMW comparison as i despise all BMW's with a passion and refuse to drive them.
 
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Old Nov 27, 2013 | 11:58 AM
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Originally Posted by Mustang5L5
even though the G35x handles well, it does tend to push a bit in the corners. Some guys with 2nd gens claim a RWD sway bar does help bring the balance to more nuetral feel. Unsure if anyone with a 1st gen gas tried this.

Can't comment on BMW comparison as i despise all BMW's with a passion and refuse to drive them.
I am curious as to why?
 
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Old Nov 27, 2013 | 12:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Wannabe6MT
I am curious as to why?
Has to do with a personal experience years ago before I could even drive. Stupid reason really, has nothing to do with design/tech. Great cars and good engineering...but I'll never drive one.

Love Audi/Porsche, own a Mercedes....want to buy a BMW just to bash it with a sledgehammer
 
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Old Nov 27, 2013 | 12:10 PM
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Originally Posted by Mustang5L5
Has to do with a personal experience years ago before I could even drive. Stupid reason really, has nothing to do with design/tech. Great cars and good engineering...but I'll never drive one.

Love Audi/Porsche, own a Mercedes....want to buy a BMW just to bash it with a sledgehammer
Ah. You are missing out on a lot of great driving cars. I'v had personal vendettas against car brands, and then i grew up and now I just hate specific vehicles.
 
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Old Nov 29, 2013 | 11:15 AM
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The sound of the exhaust didnt sound good either.
 
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