Retiring my 94 Camry this year, and will be looking at 06 or 07 G35. I'd like the 6MT, but afraid I'll wreck it (20 years of driving FWD). The G35x sounds like it might have good power, although not as much at the MT? I'll have to test drive to be sure. But anyway, after reading all these posts on mods, can I modify the "x" and get real gains? If so, does anybody know how to go about finding a qualified and proven shop to do the work? I live in the Cincinnati OH area. I'm itching to get the car now (just returned from Vegas where I drove an Indy car!), but am holding off to see what the '07 model brings.

Thanks in advance!!

 

I live in Indy and have been driving both fwd and rwd for a long time also. I got the 6mt and with proper snow tires its much better in the snow than my fwd Accord was. Plus in the summer with the summer tires on, its sooo much fun. Anyhow, I say go with the 6mt, get the extra HP and with the cash you save from not buying an X, buy some snow tires.

 

Test drive the RWD version in the rain and/or snow (doesn't matter if it's the '05 or '07) and keep the VDC on (default) and from a standstill, stomp on the gas/turn the wheel....electronics are amazing these days....check it out. I too drove FWD for the past 13 years & now have RWD...I don't regret it one bit. Just get snow tires for winter, as the stock wheels suck.

 

The G35x is AWD but is rear-biased so it will oversteer. I don't think you need the awd unless you get a lot of snow. The VDC (traction control) is standard and will keep you out of any trouble. It usually cuts in very quick and prevents any kind of wheel spin. I turn mine off now and then for a little fun. I am very familiar with rwd cars but not with the manual. Still, I find the car very easy to control even in a spin.