First I would like to say, after looking at many sites/forums for G35 owners, We have found that this site has the best information and most educated car enthusiates yet. We are proud to be new members and look forward to learning from you all.

Beginning of May 2003, we purchased a 2003.5 G35 6MT. Let me say, I grew up around racing and building cars. I love them, most all of them, and I am very much a tough critic when it comes to every aspect of a vehicle. My husband and I researched the G35 for about 10 months, prior to purchase. We are always reading up on, checking out, and test driving new cars of every sort. For the past 3 years I had my heart set on the BMW 540i (Ok, I really wanted the M5; but, I have children a home and not enough money coming in every month for that payment, reality is a bitch). Anyway, initially we drove the early 2003 G35 when only the auto was available. I will admit, I hate automatics, I believe a car should be drivin, and love to drive. However, my husband and I were thoroughly impressed with the car. Finally, an automatic that actually stays in the gear you want it in with out shifting up. Must be able to redline a car. We talked about and read about it for months. I, being the difficult wife that I am, insisted that I must have the six speed. So, in January, at the LA Auto show, we finally witnessed the six-speed manual. I sat inside, felt the short throw, and without driving, I was in love. But still, I had the 540I on the brain. We drove the six speed version of the 540I. I liked it, he wasn't impressed, especially when it came to the "BMW" sticker price. They are very proud of their vehicles, and for good reason, but I believe that you can get more for you money on occasion.

With that said, we stumbled across an Infiniti dealer on a trip down south. Didn't even think the place was open. There it was, my car, sitting there, beautiful black on black with my trany. Ok, my husband found it, but it was my car. Suddenly, we're approached by a salesman, he asked if we wanted to drive. Before he could finish his sentance, I was behind the wheel waiting for the key. I fully believe in "test driving" a car. Put it through it's paces. And that I did. End of that week, I was driving home in my new G35. (Please don't yell at me for driving it too hard before it's break in period, it's good for it, it needs to learn my driving) I'm proud of it, and get lots looks and wonderful comments (mostly, "that is a beautiful car"). I've had a few people even stop me to ask me questions about it.

My only complaint, if you can call it that, is the stock 215/55/17's, ok, and a bit more horsepower. Although I am impressed how the 260 (I know at the flywheel) can stuff you in the seat. That torque really does the trick. I would love to see NISMO or some reputable company come up with some aftermarket induction, I'd like to see 325+ out of it.

Currently, we are looking in to new rims and tires. I need more rubber. Especially with our aggressive driving styles. We're looking at 225/45/18 in the front and 255/45 or 40/18 in the rear. Would love to hear any comments or suggestions on that tire/wheel configuration. Also, if anyone can tell me/us current aftermarket power suggestions (from you pro's, of course) it would be greatly appreciated.

Pics to come soon. There aren't many I've seen like ours.

Take care all. Oh, and sorry for the long thread.

 

Welcome, welcome, welcome... I'm relatively new here as well, as my G turned one month old today. I hope it liked the cake. I'm glad you settled on the G, they can be a ton of fun. My friend's father is on his second M5, and I must say that they're a blast in the summer, but you better lock it up for good in the winter if you get even mildly inclement weather... that much torque will get ya. Enjoy!
G

2003.5 Black w/ Willow
Premium / Sport / Aero / Winter / Navi / Tint
Indianapolis, IN

 

Welcome muuvova! Enjoyed reading your post and I'm sure we'll all enjoy your input and feedback in the future!

Welcome again.


03 G35
02 Sequoia

 

HI muuvova.. Welcome to the forums.. Long post..but I enjoyed it )

 

Thanks for the warm reply. I'm crazy I know. Ok, question...I know my cars, but I'm not all that. What's your take on this. I know I want 18" rims. I considered the 19's and even the 20's but it's just way overstated in my opinion. I know there's been talk about this in other threads, but curious what you think. I'm looking at putting 225/45/18 on the front with either an 8 or 8.5" wheel. The rear I'm looking at 255/45 or 40/18 with likely a 9.5" rim. I'm hearing talk about offset and the VDC being affected. I hate to say it, but I don't always trust the tire guys and am not as well versed in this area as I'd like to be. Come on I'm just a girl...(kidding ) You seem to be well informed, from my reading of your other posts. What are your thoughts? I'll post a copy of the rims I have in mind also a bit later. Thanks for any help you can provide...

 

muuvova, welcome to it! I had a very similar experience with the Auto and now have almost 10K on my 6MT sedan. I too started the shopping with the 540 and A-6 so that I'd have that combination of fast with enough room for the kids. The G is the best fit, by far. New rubber: You may want to check through the other threads in regards to changing up the wheels and tires without messing up the VDC. I understand that it wants to see wheels with the same outside diameter so it does not confuse it with "slip." Best of luck and I hope to see you on the road!

G35/S/MT....this car rocks!

 

kfreefall, I neglected to mention that we were also looking at the A6 2.6T Quattro. All wheel drive is a beautiful thing and Audi has that down pat. Can't beat the handling of all wheel drive. You are so right about the room in the G. Those reclining back seats are a godsend. About two weeks after we purchased the car, we drove it to Vegas, with two other adult friends. It was so comfortable and power was not affected at all, even with a loaded trunk and four full size adults. I'm very happy. Everyone on this site has been super helpful. I'm looking forward to adding some mods. We really want to make this car run.

 

Hey, great read on your thread! Dig that username... welcome aboard.

"There's no replacement for discplacement, but forced induction can sure help".