G35 vs. EVO vs. M3 vs. STI - Drive Review
05-17-2005, 05:39 PM
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G35 vs. EVO vs. M3 vs. STI - Drive Review
Like some of you, I am shopping for a fun sports car. Looking at the market, there are several cars to choose from in the price range of 30-50k which is in the comfort zone for what I am willing to pay for a car.
With that in mind, I narrowed my search down to 4 cars that to me seemed to be monsters in their own rights; The Infinity G35, The Subaru WRX STi, The BMW M3 and The Mitsubishi EVO.
My stepfather is in the car wholesale business, so rounding up used models of all of these cars to go and test drive was a relatively easy task accomplished in a few phone calls.
Considerations: I am not evaluating these cars by their numbers, i.e. skid pad, lap times, quarter mile times or hype. My evaluations are based on a daily driven perspective, with occasional trips to the track, or the occasional autocross. My assumptions, evaluations and opinions are largely based on the butt-dyno figures and other "user-experience" factors. In short, I don't care if my price numbers are not 100% accurate, or if some other random factor is off. I am offering my opinion of these 4 cars as another enthusiast who is shopping the market and communicating my experience. Please be respectful in your replies.
EVO RS
The Look:
I started at 9am sharp with the Mitsubishi EVO RS. My first impression of this car in the EVO 8 form was that it was a bit too "Fast and Furious" for me, so when I saw the RS edition it was a refreshing look at the car with reasonably crisp lines and an overall aggressive profile. This car, while sitting still says "I'll whip your *** in the twisties and probably the straights WITH my kids in the backseat" (No I don't have kids, it's just what came to mind)
The Specs:
2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged engine with 276 horsepower and 286 lb-ft torque - front-mounted air-to-air intercooler - close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission - full-time AWD with electronically governed Active Center Differential and driver-selectable mode: Tarmac, Snow or Gravel - aluminum roof panel, front fenders and hood - rear-end lateral chassis stiffener - turbo boost gauge kit - aluminum sport pedals - 4-wheel ventilated BREMBO® disc brakes - 17" x 8" ENKEI® alloy wheels - W-speed rated Yokohama P235/45 ADVAN® high-grip, soft-compound radial tires - front Recaro® Sport bucket seats with premium sport fabric - 5 M/T Aluminum Shift **** - leather-wrapped MOMO® three-spoke steering wheel
The Drive:
First impressions, I’m a rather large guy @ 6'4', 375lbs so when I get into these cars I don't expect there to be much room in terms of head and foot space. This car however, was surprisingly accommodating having plenty of space to adjust and get comfortable. Now let's get to the part that we all care about, letting the go-fast bug bite us and spawning the speed demon driver we all are at heart.
I turn right out of the dealership and mash the throttle down to the floor (of course, I let the car get to operating temperature first) With what to me seemed to be a little hesitation the EVO lurched forward then leveled off for a moment; then at 3300rpm or so came alive like a gazelle being stalked by a lion in the flatlands of Africa!. From that point on the car was a seat slamming, torque punching, and shotgun shifting beast. I drove the car up to 140 MPH from different roll on speeds, and twice I launched from a stoplight with 4500-5000k RPM clutch drops (Isn't romping on someone else's headache fun?!) and was surprised at how quick the car responded. It also proved very responsive in the twisties, accelerating rather well out of corners, and holding its ground in the turns, push it too far and you start to under steer, followed by over steer or "drift" if you will.
Enough about the stuff I liked in the car and onto the pieces I hated. Firstly, the car has a very cheap feeling and looking interior. Though comfortable, it was much like that of a rental car perhaps like a Kia Rio or any other sub 10k econobox vehicle in today's market. Secondly, every single Honda loving, supra spoiler having, non painted-body kit wearing rice boy that I saw tried to rev up his hamster wheel and race me. I'm definitely out for a performance vehicle, but not at the expense of having the image of an 18 year old "street-racing-is-my-life" kind of guy. Thirdly the price you pay for what you get, overall the EVO just didn’t make me feel comfortable spending the $27,929 (Base MSRP) or $26,333 (Base invoice) for what in my opinion is a high powered, all wheel drive rental car.
Subaru STi
The Look:
From my first look at this car, it also has a bit of that "Fast and Furious" look I mentioned earlier, however this car has a purebred rally car style and background that unlike the EVO in my opinion, was maintained in the design of the street car. The car I drove was Blue with Gold Rims, it had only been on the lot for 24hours, and they didn't expect it to last as apparently this is the highest demand color combination offered by Subaru. Overall this car has the same type of aggressive profile as the EVO, however the Suby lines seemed a bit classier to my eye. If I had to equate this car to a phrase it would be "**** with me?!, I dare you!"
The Specs:
300-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) - Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with helical-type limited-slip front differential and mechanical limited-slip rear differential - High performance sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension - Brembo performance braking system with Super Sport ABS - 17 X 8.0-inch 10-spoke BBS lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with ultra high-performance tires - Iridium spark plugs - STi-design front seats.
The Drive:
When I climbed into the drivers seat of this car, I really felt like I was in something meant for the track only the heavily bolstered seats, everything I could want on the instrument cluster, and a better layout and design of everything else was great. I wasn't able to get as comfortable in here as I was in the EVO, however being a guy my size (though I’m losing weight rapidly due to surgery) at this point I was willing to sacrifice a little comfort IF the drive was worthwhile.
I hit the road after the warm up, mashing the throttle to the floor in first gear; this car had no hesitation slamming me into the chair with the turbo screaming "hold on to your nuts!" I bang second gear and rocket to 60mph only to see a red light. I hit the brakes hard, and the car stops almost as fast as it accelerates. Stop light, no cops, no one in front of me... you know what that means. I rev the car up to about 4500 (to be consistent with the comparison to the other cars) and side step the clutch when the light is green. The car again, snaps out of the hole like a starving dog chasing a fresh T-bone steak. At this point, I decide it's time to go to the freeway, I’m impressed w/ the power of the car but I want to know what it does at higher speeds. I turned onto the highway accelerating up the ramp to 65mph and merge into traffic, I manage to find a clear lane drop it into third, bury the throttle and whooooosh we are off and cooking in no time flat. At about 110 mph, I started to back off, not because my ***** shrunk in size or the sight of a local law enforcement official, but because the car started shaking, and felt very unstable at that speed. I tried a couple more high speed passes, once taking it up to 130 to see if it was just an alignment problem, or maybe tire balance that was causing the shake; in the end I realized that it was just the car. This was rather disheartening because I like to drive fast, especially on the Dallas freeways. I was discouraged entirely though (I can buy new suspension), I continued on to the twisties hoping that the car would reinvigorate me. This car has excellent response on turn in with those meaty tired holding the road like the Velcro they show in their commercials, but the exit path was an entirely different matter. Give the car a little bit of throttle to get out quick and you were on your way sideways, controllable but sideways nonetheless, I would like to see the car hold its ground a little better. (Yes, I realize some of this could be driver error or road surface etc.)
Overall, the STI is a great car for someone that doesn’t want to get above 100mph often, loves city driving and doesn’t mind the annoying rear wing rendering your rear-view mirror useless. I found it to be a great drive for low speed, but it didn't have that "daily grind" great overall driving experience that I’m looking for. The STI seems best suited for track driving to me. I'm not going to pay $33,020 (Base MSRP) or $30,838 (Base Invoice) for a car that isn’t' stable above 100mph. Nuff Said.
BMW M3 Coupe
The Look:
This car has in my opinion, one of the best overall curb appeals of any automobile in it's price range, bested only by the G35 but we will get to that later. This car draws you in with its bold sophisticated lines, aggressive dual exhaust and its flared and vented fenders. To be fair and summarize this car to a statement: "I'm sex on 19 inch wheels, what's your name?"
The Specs:
3,246 cc 3.2 liters 6 in-line front engine with 87 mm bore - 91 mm stroke - 11.5 compression ratio - double overhead cam - variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder - Multi-point injection fuel system - Power: SAE and 248 kW , 333 HP @ 7,900 rpm; 262 ft lb , 355 Nm @ 4,900 rpm - Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs - Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management - Limited slip differential -Stability control - Strut front suspension with stabilizer bar independent with coil springs - multi-link rear suspension with stabilizer bar independent with coil springs.
The Drive:
I open the door to this car and am instantly drawn to the look of the seat, this thing looks comfortable yet bolstered just enough to hold you in place when you hit those turns. The position of the shifter, pedals and steering wheel should were incredible in relation to any seating position. The gauges, dash and technology in this car are far superior to the other two cars I've driven today; I'm nearly drooling at the mouth to drive this car. I climb in, and to my surprise the car is short on head and foot room, though has plenty of lateral room to support my larger frame. I manage to get the seat into a comfortable position, but there is no chance of anyone ever sitting behind me. I was okay with this because I don't have passengers that often, other than the girlfriend who is short enough to allow someone to sit in the back.
I pull out of the lot, again slamming the throttle to the floor; unlike the last 2 cars, there is no waiting for boost this car is "power on demand" the harder on the throttle I push, the more power it puts down. I am already in love with this thing, and I've not even shifted second gear. I manage to push the clutch and shift second fast enough to light up the tires and snake a little bit. The car gets mad at me and shuts it down, but damn this thing is fast. Even more impressive than the power delivery is the roar of the pissed off engine, but it quiets down to a purr at less than full throttle to maintain its sophisticated profile. I especially like this, because unless the rice boy is keen, he won't even realize that the car is an M class until it's too late and he smells the exhaust fumes. I get this car on the freeway and I’m shocked, at 130+ the car has an amazing ability to do what can only be described as lowering itself, and suck down on the concrete, what’s crazy is that doing 130+ in this car is effortless, just like a Sunday drive with grandma (minus the quick lane changes in and out of other cars) You really don't feel like you are in any danger, the car is completely predictable and handles like a wet dream.
There are of course, a few downsides to this car. Firstly, the price; Its in the high end of the dollar spectrum $48,995 (Base MSRP) + TTL & D or $44,920 +TTL & D (Base Invoice, IF I can find a dealer that will heckle) is pretty much every penny I'd be comfortable spending, I could afford more but I really don't want to spend more than that on an automobile that will ultimately depreciate over time regardless of the condition I keep it in. Another impression that stood out with the M3 was the lack of power as you reach the top of the power band, I love the on demand torque, but I'd like it to be a bit more even in the power band, depending on gear it's either up high or down low. The price tag of this beast doesn’t leave any budget for Mods, so I can't get the 420WHP the M3 guys talk about with bolt-ons and ECU re-flash and Cams. Great car, but just doesn’t fit the budget if I want something with a little bit more Gump.
Infiniti G35 Coupe
The Looks:
"And then god sent the G35", DAMN! That’s a sexy mother f***er. This car gave me what the US military claimed to pull in Iraq "Shock and Awe" Smooth, sultry, satin lines with aggressive front and rear styling that will make your momma scream "DAMN!" Did I drive 3 other cars today? I can't remember what they look like all of a sudden. This car has "I'm too hot to handle" written all over it.
The Specs:
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 - Horse Power: 298 @ 6400 - Torque: 260 @ 4800 - Transmission: 6-speed manual - Fuel Economy: 29/26 - Wheelbase: 112.2 - Length/Width/Height: 182.2/71.5/54.8 - Turning Radius: 37.4 - Seating Capacity: 4 - Front Head/Hip/Leg room: 39.2/53.6/43.8 - Rear Head/Hip/Leg room: 34.7/48.0/31.4 - Trunk Volume: 7.8 - Front Suspension: independent, two lower links and one upper link per side, coil springs, anti-roll bar - Rear Suspension: independent, multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar - Curb Weight: 3512 - Stock Tires: P225/40WR19; P245/40WR18 - Brakes Front/Rear: vented disc/vented disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist.
The Drive:
From the instant they opened the door to this car, I knew where my money was going to be spent, it might not have all the high tech Gizmo's the M3 had, but the car just does everything well. The space was amazing, even with me being a big guy, I fit in this car with room to spare. Plenty of leg room for me to stretch out, head room for me to sit up and lateral space for me to feel comfortable.
For the last time of the day, I turned out of the lot once more flooring the throttle and again instantly whipped into the seat with no lag because of the N/A motor. This was a bit different than the BMW, because even though the torque was 2 lb-ft lower at peak RPM the G35 seemed to be geared better, much smoother power band as well; the car simply flexed its power with ease. I bang second gear and to my delight it plants me firmly back into the cushy leather seating, bolstered so perfectly it was as if the seat had been made for just me. Hit 3rd and again the car hit me hard with torque to the seat. I’m very impressed by this car, like the BMW it too has suction cup ability on the highway, pulls itself down and effortlessly cruises @ 130+. Take the car to the twisties, and you’re floored again. Excellent turn in, accelerate and turn out, completely predictable. It was easy to force over steer, but the car was the most fun to have sideways, it just felt more solid during those maneuvers. The other big upside to this car is the price! $33,960 (Base 6MT MSRP) and $31,281 (Base 6MT Invoice) Even though I want more power out of the car I can spend a further $7500 for an APS twin turbo kit and have the same power as the modded M3 guys, having spend much less cash.
Of course this car is no without its downsides as well, some of the features and trim levels available on the G just don't work. For instance the "premium" package, for a guy like me, Blose (Bose) Audio is horrible ****. I demand better sound quality than it can produce, yet I have to special order all the other features to avoid having that one regardless of my intentions on changing it out. It's also slower than some of the other cars, not because it's down on power, but because it’s a heavy pig. The navigation feature is worthless, why spend the money for the factory navigation, when you can equip some aftermarket stuff that will include Navigation, DVD, and rear view camera (if you want it) for cheaper?
Overall this car is a blast to drive for any driving situation that I care to be in, adequate power and comfort for daily driving yet strong suspension and great grip for some aggressive track or drag strip driving. For my goals and the money I’m going to spend, my 50k will go into the G35, not because it's the fastest for that much money (including mods in the 50k, APS Twin Kit!!). Some of the other cars could be finessed to more HP for the same coin, but the G35 is the best all around performance machine for the money. I'll be placing my order for a 05 6MT DG with Grubbs this weekend.
Regards,
BlackieChan
With that in mind, I narrowed my search down to 4 cars that to me seemed to be monsters in their own rights; The Infinity G35, The Subaru WRX STi, The BMW M3 and The Mitsubishi EVO.
My stepfather is in the car wholesale business, so rounding up used models of all of these cars to go and test drive was a relatively easy task accomplished in a few phone calls.
Considerations: I am not evaluating these cars by their numbers, i.e. skid pad, lap times, quarter mile times or hype. My evaluations are based on a daily driven perspective, with occasional trips to the track, or the occasional autocross. My assumptions, evaluations and opinions are largely based on the butt-dyno figures and other "user-experience" factors. In short, I don't care if my price numbers are not 100% accurate, or if some other random factor is off. I am offering my opinion of these 4 cars as another enthusiast who is shopping the market and communicating my experience. Please be respectful in your replies.
EVO RS
The Look:
I started at 9am sharp with the Mitsubishi EVO RS. My first impression of this car in the EVO 8 form was that it was a bit too "Fast and Furious" for me, so when I saw the RS edition it was a refreshing look at the car with reasonably crisp lines and an overall aggressive profile. This car, while sitting still says "I'll whip your *** in the twisties and probably the straights WITH my kids in the backseat" (No I don't have kids, it's just what came to mind)
The Specs:
2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged engine with 276 horsepower and 286 lb-ft torque - front-mounted air-to-air intercooler - close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission - full-time AWD with electronically governed Active Center Differential and driver-selectable mode: Tarmac, Snow or Gravel - aluminum roof panel, front fenders and hood - rear-end lateral chassis stiffener - turbo boost gauge kit - aluminum sport pedals - 4-wheel ventilated BREMBO® disc brakes - 17" x 8" ENKEI® alloy wheels - W-speed rated Yokohama P235/45 ADVAN® high-grip, soft-compound radial tires - front Recaro® Sport bucket seats with premium sport fabric - 5 M/T Aluminum Shift **** - leather-wrapped MOMO® three-spoke steering wheel
The Drive:
First impressions, I’m a rather large guy @ 6'4', 375lbs so when I get into these cars I don't expect there to be much room in terms of head and foot space. This car however, was surprisingly accommodating having plenty of space to adjust and get comfortable. Now let's get to the part that we all care about, letting the go-fast bug bite us and spawning the speed demon driver we all are at heart.
I turn right out of the dealership and mash the throttle down to the floor (of course, I let the car get to operating temperature first) With what to me seemed to be a little hesitation the EVO lurched forward then leveled off for a moment; then at 3300rpm or so came alive like a gazelle being stalked by a lion in the flatlands of Africa!. From that point on the car was a seat slamming, torque punching, and shotgun shifting beast. I drove the car up to 140 MPH from different roll on speeds, and twice I launched from a stoplight with 4500-5000k RPM clutch drops (Isn't romping on someone else's headache fun?!) and was surprised at how quick the car responded. It also proved very responsive in the twisties, accelerating rather well out of corners, and holding its ground in the turns, push it too far and you start to under steer, followed by over steer or "drift" if you will.
Enough about the stuff I liked in the car and onto the pieces I hated. Firstly, the car has a very cheap feeling and looking interior. Though comfortable, it was much like that of a rental car perhaps like a Kia Rio or any other sub 10k econobox vehicle in today's market. Secondly, every single Honda loving, supra spoiler having, non painted-body kit wearing rice boy that I saw tried to rev up his hamster wheel and race me. I'm definitely out for a performance vehicle, but not at the expense of having the image of an 18 year old "street-racing-is-my-life" kind of guy. Thirdly the price you pay for what you get, overall the EVO just didn’t make me feel comfortable spending the $27,929 (Base MSRP) or $26,333 (Base invoice) for what in my opinion is a high powered, all wheel drive rental car.
Subaru STi
The Look:
From my first look at this car, it also has a bit of that "Fast and Furious" look I mentioned earlier, however this car has a purebred rally car style and background that unlike the EVO in my opinion, was maintained in the design of the street car. The car I drove was Blue with Gold Rims, it had only been on the lot for 24hours, and they didn't expect it to last as apparently this is the highest demand color combination offered by Subaru. Overall this car has the same type of aggressive profile as the EVO, however the Suby lines seemed a bit classier to my eye. If I had to equate this car to a phrase it would be "**** with me?!, I dare you!"
The Specs:
300-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) - Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with helical-type limited-slip front differential and mechanical limited-slip rear differential - High performance sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension - Brembo performance braking system with Super Sport ABS - 17 X 8.0-inch 10-spoke BBS lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with ultra high-performance tires - Iridium spark plugs - STi-design front seats.
The Drive:
When I climbed into the drivers seat of this car, I really felt like I was in something meant for the track only the heavily bolstered seats, everything I could want on the instrument cluster, and a better layout and design of everything else was great. I wasn't able to get as comfortable in here as I was in the EVO, however being a guy my size (though I’m losing weight rapidly due to surgery) at this point I was willing to sacrifice a little comfort IF the drive was worthwhile.
I hit the road after the warm up, mashing the throttle to the floor in first gear; this car had no hesitation slamming me into the chair with the turbo screaming "hold on to your nuts!" I bang second gear and rocket to 60mph only to see a red light. I hit the brakes hard, and the car stops almost as fast as it accelerates. Stop light, no cops, no one in front of me... you know what that means. I rev the car up to about 4500 (to be consistent with the comparison to the other cars) and side step the clutch when the light is green. The car again, snaps out of the hole like a starving dog chasing a fresh T-bone steak. At this point, I decide it's time to go to the freeway, I’m impressed w/ the power of the car but I want to know what it does at higher speeds. I turned onto the highway accelerating up the ramp to 65mph and merge into traffic, I manage to find a clear lane drop it into third, bury the throttle and whooooosh we are off and cooking in no time flat. At about 110 mph, I started to back off, not because my ***** shrunk in size or the sight of a local law enforcement official, but because the car started shaking, and felt very unstable at that speed. I tried a couple more high speed passes, once taking it up to 130 to see if it was just an alignment problem, or maybe tire balance that was causing the shake; in the end I realized that it was just the car. This was rather disheartening because I like to drive fast, especially on the Dallas freeways. I was discouraged entirely though (I can buy new suspension), I continued on to the twisties hoping that the car would reinvigorate me. This car has excellent response on turn in with those meaty tired holding the road like the Velcro they show in their commercials, but the exit path was an entirely different matter. Give the car a little bit of throttle to get out quick and you were on your way sideways, controllable but sideways nonetheless, I would like to see the car hold its ground a little better. (Yes, I realize some of this could be driver error or road surface etc.)
Overall, the STI is a great car for someone that doesn’t want to get above 100mph often, loves city driving and doesn’t mind the annoying rear wing rendering your rear-view mirror useless. I found it to be a great drive for low speed, but it didn't have that "daily grind" great overall driving experience that I’m looking for. The STI seems best suited for track driving to me. I'm not going to pay $33,020 (Base MSRP) or $30,838 (Base Invoice) for a car that isn’t' stable above 100mph. Nuff Said.
BMW M3 Coupe
The Look:
This car has in my opinion, one of the best overall curb appeals of any automobile in it's price range, bested only by the G35 but we will get to that later. This car draws you in with its bold sophisticated lines, aggressive dual exhaust and its flared and vented fenders. To be fair and summarize this car to a statement: "I'm sex on 19 inch wheels, what's your name?"
The Specs:
3,246 cc 3.2 liters 6 in-line front engine with 87 mm bore - 91 mm stroke - 11.5 compression ratio - double overhead cam - variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder - Multi-point injection fuel system - Power: SAE and 248 kW , 333 HP @ 7,900 rpm; 262 ft lb , 355 Nm @ 4,900 rpm - Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs - Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management - Limited slip differential -Stability control - Strut front suspension with stabilizer bar independent with coil springs - multi-link rear suspension with stabilizer bar independent with coil springs.
The Drive:
I open the door to this car and am instantly drawn to the look of the seat, this thing looks comfortable yet bolstered just enough to hold you in place when you hit those turns. The position of the shifter, pedals and steering wheel should were incredible in relation to any seating position. The gauges, dash and technology in this car are far superior to the other two cars I've driven today; I'm nearly drooling at the mouth to drive this car. I climb in, and to my surprise the car is short on head and foot room, though has plenty of lateral room to support my larger frame. I manage to get the seat into a comfortable position, but there is no chance of anyone ever sitting behind me. I was okay with this because I don't have passengers that often, other than the girlfriend who is short enough to allow someone to sit in the back.
I pull out of the lot, again slamming the throttle to the floor; unlike the last 2 cars, there is no waiting for boost this car is "power on demand" the harder on the throttle I push, the more power it puts down. I am already in love with this thing, and I've not even shifted second gear. I manage to push the clutch and shift second fast enough to light up the tires and snake a little bit. The car gets mad at me and shuts it down, but damn this thing is fast. Even more impressive than the power delivery is the roar of the pissed off engine, but it quiets down to a purr at less than full throttle to maintain its sophisticated profile. I especially like this, because unless the rice boy is keen, he won't even realize that the car is an M class until it's too late and he smells the exhaust fumes. I get this car on the freeway and I’m shocked, at 130+ the car has an amazing ability to do what can only be described as lowering itself, and suck down on the concrete, what’s crazy is that doing 130+ in this car is effortless, just like a Sunday drive with grandma (minus the quick lane changes in and out of other cars) You really don't feel like you are in any danger, the car is completely predictable and handles like a wet dream.
There are of course, a few downsides to this car. Firstly, the price; Its in the high end of the dollar spectrum $48,995 (Base MSRP) + TTL & D or $44,920 +TTL & D (Base Invoice, IF I can find a dealer that will heckle) is pretty much every penny I'd be comfortable spending, I could afford more but I really don't want to spend more than that on an automobile that will ultimately depreciate over time regardless of the condition I keep it in. Another impression that stood out with the M3 was the lack of power as you reach the top of the power band, I love the on demand torque, but I'd like it to be a bit more even in the power band, depending on gear it's either up high or down low. The price tag of this beast doesn’t leave any budget for Mods, so I can't get the 420WHP the M3 guys talk about with bolt-ons and ECU re-flash and Cams. Great car, but just doesn’t fit the budget if I want something with a little bit more Gump.
Infiniti G35 Coupe
The Looks:
"And then god sent the G35", DAMN! That’s a sexy mother f***er. This car gave me what the US military claimed to pull in Iraq "Shock and Awe" Smooth, sultry, satin lines with aggressive front and rear styling that will make your momma scream "DAMN!" Did I drive 3 other cars today? I can't remember what they look like all of a sudden. This car has "I'm too hot to handle" written all over it.
The Specs:
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 - Horse Power: 298 @ 6400 - Torque: 260 @ 4800 - Transmission: 6-speed manual - Fuel Economy: 29/26 - Wheelbase: 112.2 - Length/Width/Height: 182.2/71.5/54.8 - Turning Radius: 37.4 - Seating Capacity: 4 - Front Head/Hip/Leg room: 39.2/53.6/43.8 - Rear Head/Hip/Leg room: 34.7/48.0/31.4 - Trunk Volume: 7.8 - Front Suspension: independent, two lower links and one upper link per side, coil springs, anti-roll bar - Rear Suspension: independent, multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar - Curb Weight: 3512 - Stock Tires: P225/40WR19; P245/40WR18 - Brakes Front/Rear: vented disc/vented disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist.
The Drive:
From the instant they opened the door to this car, I knew where my money was going to be spent, it might not have all the high tech Gizmo's the M3 had, but the car just does everything well. The space was amazing, even with me being a big guy, I fit in this car with room to spare. Plenty of leg room for me to stretch out, head room for me to sit up and lateral space for me to feel comfortable.
For the last time of the day, I turned out of the lot once more flooring the throttle and again instantly whipped into the seat with no lag because of the N/A motor. This was a bit different than the BMW, because even though the torque was 2 lb-ft lower at peak RPM the G35 seemed to be geared better, much smoother power band as well; the car simply flexed its power with ease. I bang second gear and to my delight it plants me firmly back into the cushy leather seating, bolstered so perfectly it was as if the seat had been made for just me. Hit 3rd and again the car hit me hard with torque to the seat. I’m very impressed by this car, like the BMW it too has suction cup ability on the highway, pulls itself down and effortlessly cruises @ 130+. Take the car to the twisties, and you’re floored again. Excellent turn in, accelerate and turn out, completely predictable. It was easy to force over steer, but the car was the most fun to have sideways, it just felt more solid during those maneuvers. The other big upside to this car is the price! $33,960 (Base 6MT MSRP) and $31,281 (Base 6MT Invoice) Even though I want more power out of the car I can spend a further $7500 for an APS twin turbo kit and have the same power as the modded M3 guys, having spend much less cash.
Of course this car is no without its downsides as well, some of the features and trim levels available on the G just don't work. For instance the "premium" package, for a guy like me, Blose (Bose) Audio is horrible ****. I demand better sound quality than it can produce, yet I have to special order all the other features to avoid having that one regardless of my intentions on changing it out. It's also slower than some of the other cars, not because it's down on power, but because it’s a heavy pig. The navigation feature is worthless, why spend the money for the factory navigation, when you can equip some aftermarket stuff that will include Navigation, DVD, and rear view camera (if you want it) for cheaper?
Overall this car is a blast to drive for any driving situation that I care to be in, adequate power and comfort for daily driving yet strong suspension and great grip for some aggressive track or drag strip driving. For my goals and the money I’m going to spend, my 50k will go into the G35, not because it's the fastest for that much money (including mods in the 50k, APS Twin Kit!!). Some of the other cars could be finessed to more HP for the same coin, but the G35 is the best all around performance machine for the money. I'll be placing my order for a 05 6MT DG with Grubbs this weekend.
Regards,
BlackieChan
05-17-2005, 05:47 PM
#2
Dude what are you smoking??
i call bs on this. at 120 and 130 my sti feels like you are going 90 and is more than stable. The hood scope shakes a little as well as the wing. I don't how you could say the car feels unstable. Good car for someone that doesn't get above 100mph often? haha yea right. Nobody listen this crap.
haha you liked the g35 best out of all those cars. That's sad man. Maybe you should be a bicycle.
i call bs on this. at 120 and 130 my sti feels like you are going 90 and is more than stable. The hood scope shakes a little as well as the wing. I don't how you could say the car feels unstable. Good car for someone that doesn't get above 100mph often? haha yea right. Nobody listen this crap.
haha you liked the g35 best out of all those cars. That's sad man. Maybe you should be a bicycle.
Last edited by slow04wrx; 05-17-2005 at 05:50 PM.
05-17-2005, 06:32 PM
#4
out of what he drove he selected to slowest car and least performing. kinda sad... i like the looks of the g35 but the eingine and over all performance is garbage! i work for bmw i love the m3. brute power and killer cornering. with suspension tuned for the track.
sti drives like a dream alot easier to drive then the m3. handling is great, percision like even stock but......like all cars there is room for improvement and tunning to what you want it do.
i havent driven the evo so i can comment
i have driven a g35 and 350z track eddition and i must say that im dissaponted in performance per dollar. now if all you care about is look i still wouldnt go with this choise
sti or m3 all the way.
i think comparisons should be left to profesionals since false bs cas sway possilbe buyers to one car or another.
sti drives like a dream alot easier to drive then the m3. handling is great, percision like even stock but......like all cars there is room for improvement and tunning to what you want it do.
i havent driven the evo so i can comment
i have driven a g35 and 350z track eddition and i must say that im dissaponted in performance per dollar. now if all you care about is look i still wouldnt go with this choise
sti or m3 all the way.
i think comparisons should be left to profesionals since false bs cas sway possilbe buyers to one car or another.
05-17-2005, 06:42 PM
#5
Guest
Posts: n/a
I, on the other hand, will THANK Blackiechan for the INCREDIBLE amount of effort he put into making such a long post that makes a noble attempt to give his own personal experiences to help others in making decisions.
You others should try to respect someone's opinion and not call it "bs" (why would he write so much just to "bs"???).
Besides:
It would be nice if you guys learned to read too.
You others should try to respect someone's opinion and not call it "bs" (why would he write so much just to "bs"???).
Besides:
For my goals and the money I’m going to spend, my 50k will go into the G35, not because it's the fastest for that much money (including mods in the 50k, APS Twin Kit!!). Some of the other cars could be finessed to more HP for the same coin, but the G35 is the best all around performance machine for the money.
05-17-2005, 07:21 PM
#6
Registered User
iTrader: (3)
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Pleasanton, CA
Posts: 1,952
Car Info: a prius, a miata, & 2 m3's
The 7k turbo kit on the g35 wont put you in the same league of the M3's engine responsiveness. While my m3 doesnt put down as much power as my STi, it is infinitely more responsive. I was deciding between the G35 and STi, and decided to get the Sti because frankly the G35 is boring and underpowered.
Oh and the Sti feels stable at high speeds. I've had mine to 150 no problem. Feels great at 105 on the back straight of sears point raceway, too. Cruising at 120 is fine... A little noisy though.
Oh and the Sti feels stable at high speeds. I've had mine to 150 no problem. Feels great at 105 on the back straight of sears point raceway, too. Cruising at 120 is fine... A little noisy though.
05-17-2005, 10:44 PM
#7
I think the problem is this guys story. He is probably full of it. They had all those cars to beat on???
He defied psychics and went 65 in 2nd. His post sounds like he is doing a story for creative writing or something. Obvious crap. Enjoy your pos g35.
He defied psychics and went 65 in 2nd. His post sounds like he is doing a story for creative writing or something. Obvious crap. Enjoy your pos g35.
05-18-2005, 12:55 AM
#8
Originally Posted by sabishii
I, on the other hand, will THANK Blackiechan for the INCREDIBLE amount of effort he put into making such a long post that makes a noble attempt to give his own personal experiences to help others in making decisions.
You others should try to respect someone's opinion and not call it "bs" (why would he write so much just to "bs"???).
Besides:
It would be nice if you guys learned to read too.
You others should try to respect someone's opinion and not call it "bs" (why would he write so much just to "bs"???).
Besides:
It would be nice if you guys learned to read too.
i applaud his effort but.... like i sid before he should alow the profesional drivers to make comments on the cars on and off the track. this would be more accurate to those looking for accurate information on these cars.
if pro's ares left to make the comments on the cars you can gett buba that drove a truck that handles like ish for 10 years. all of a sudden jump behind the wheel of a camero (stock), and his oppinion is that i handles on rails when in reality it dose not.
personally im glad he found a car that fits him. but the title of this thread is a bit missleading. its more like he wants oppinions on the cars. not that hes making a writeup on them himself.
Last edited by adrian; 05-18-2005 at 12:58 AM.
05-18-2005, 02:02 AM
#9
His story is bs man, it sounds like he is practing his journalism or something. "as i crested the beautiful horizon the g35 swiftly and gracefully excelled through the on coming corners with the greatest of ease".
The real story is douche bag got a g35 to pimp hoes, and then he realized he payed too much for an overpriced boat, and is trying to screw other people to make himself feel better. ahahahha
Anyhow I will match his g35 vs my sti anyday at speeds over 100, and we will see who is stable and who isn't. (Although 375 lbs provides a lot of downforce)
The real story is douche bag got a g35 to pimp hoes, and then he realized he payed too much for an overpriced boat, and is trying to screw other people to make himself feel better. ahahahha
Anyhow I will match his g35 vs my sti anyday at speeds over 100, and we will see who is stable and who isn't. (Although 375 lbs provides a lot of downforce)
05-18-2005, 05:15 AM
#10
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 293
never driven
I'm with those that think this is BS. Not a lot of people have actually driven all 4 of those cars, and although I can't say I've been up to 140 in anything but my own subie (which holds the road @ 140 as well as at 80...), I have had that chance, and I can tell you flat out that the acceleration "feel" of G35 is nothing like the other cars mentioned. It puts up respectable #'s (but about a second slower to 60 than the other 3), but someone looking for "an occasional track car" would never buy a G, the handling is too soft, it's a luxury car.
There's also all sorts of subtle mistakes in his descriptions that would make me think that he's never driven these cars, just dreamed about it. And maybe things are different in Dallas than up here, but I don't care WHO your dad is, NOBODY takes an STi off my lot without a salesperson in the car, and NOBODY drops the clutch repeatedly @5500 on a test drive @ my store, otherwise you just bought yourself a car. I can't imagine a BMW dealer was any different with an M3. When I sold Jag, we didn't even test drive the XJR's and XKR's without a deposit because nobody wants to buy one of those cars with miles on them.
Of course, I have been wrong before.... but I don't think this is one of those times.
There's also all sorts of subtle mistakes in his descriptions that would make me think that he's never driven these cars, just dreamed about it. And maybe things are different in Dallas than up here, but I don't care WHO your dad is, NOBODY takes an STi off my lot without a salesperson in the car, and NOBODY drops the clutch repeatedly @5500 on a test drive @ my store, otherwise you just bought yourself a car. I can't imagine a BMW dealer was any different with an M3. When I sold Jag, we didn't even test drive the XJR's and XKR's without a deposit because nobody wants to buy one of those cars with miles on them.
Of course, I have been wrong before.... but I don't think this is one of those times.
05-18-2005, 09:40 AM
#11
Guest
Posts: n/a
I would like to hit on a few points:
1. All of these cars were USED as stated in the opening paragraphs of my post. All but one of the cars is in a warehouse awaiting auction at the end of the month.
2. If you read my post, I have not purchased any vehicle as of yet. I intend on purchasing this weekend. I have no intentions of "pimping hoes" I am simply expressing my opinions on my test drives of these vehicles.
3. I have stated clearly that this post was solely an expression of my opinions and experience with each of these cars, regardless of what anyone says my opinion is not up for debate. If you wanted to argue the specs or some other factual data I gave I could understand your point, but stating that my opinion is "bs" show's nothing more than your lack of respect for another potential car owner.
Regards,
BC
1. All of these cars were USED as stated in the opening paragraphs of my post. All but one of the cars is in a warehouse awaiting auction at the end of the month.
2. If you read my post, I have not purchased any vehicle as of yet. I intend on purchasing this weekend. I have no intentions of "pimping hoes" I am simply expressing my opinions on my test drives of these vehicles.
3. I have stated clearly that this post was solely an expression of my opinions and experience with each of these cars, regardless of what anyone says my opinion is not up for debate. If you wanted to argue the specs or some other factual data I gave I could understand your point, but stating that my opinion is "bs" show's nothing more than your lack of respect for another potential car owner.
Regards,
BC
05-18-2005, 10:05 AM
#12
Registered User
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: I gotta have more cow bell!!!!
Posts: 9,198
Car Info: 05 STi
I'm not calling BS, maybe it was defeative, but as you can obviously tell I own an STi and it's fine at speed. It's a little louder due to the aerodynamics but it isn't as loud as what people exaggerate to be (I don't think so anyway). And as far as performance for the money, the STi owns all. By the way, test drive an EVO MR (if you can find one) and it will change your decision, I promise.
05-18-2005, 12:38 PM
#13
I just want to know what salesman lets you take out a 50 or even 30k car and beat on it.
That said, if I had 50k to spend on a performance car I'd buy a c6 or a used zo6 vette, my buddy bought a 2003 zo6 for 35k and it is safe for me to say it's the fastset and best handling car I've ever been in.
That said, if I had 50k to spend on a performance car I'd buy a c6 or a used zo6 vette, my buddy bought a 2003 zo6 for 35k and it is safe for me to say it's the fastset and best handling car I've ever been in.
05-19-2005, 07:29 AM
#14
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 293
sitting at an auction house
OK Blackiechan, I will admit that there's a chance (albeit a small one) that if your dad's in the business, you might be able to talk a new dealer into letting you test drive a few of these cars, however, there is ABSOLUTELY NO WAY, that an auction house would let you thrash a bunch of used performance cars.
Who insures that car if you wreck it? In most states, since they've got the title, it's on their head. Who picks up the tab if you blow the clutch out of one of those cars? You? .... no The manufacturer?... Heck no, Subie and Mitsu barely warranty their owners STi's and EVO's. There's too much risk on the part of the auction company, and they stand to gain absolutely nothing from allowing you to test drive the car, since they get their fee regardless of whether you buy it or someone else does.
Furthermore, let's say for a second that I, and the rest of these people actually believe you..... The sample of cars that you drove is massively skewed, since the only used STi that I'd let go to auction is one that's beaten senseless and needs work. Same w/M3, EVO, etc.....
I'm all about sharing info that people have about their shopping process, but the extent to which your observations, even if true, would help anyone, are minimal. And if you're really looking for a car you can occasionally track, grow some ***** and grab a Z instead of that Infiniti crap.
Who insures that car if you wreck it? In most states, since they've got the title, it's on their head. Who picks up the tab if you blow the clutch out of one of those cars? You? .... no The manufacturer?... Heck no, Subie and Mitsu barely warranty their owners STi's and EVO's. There's too much risk on the part of the auction company, and they stand to gain absolutely nothing from allowing you to test drive the car, since they get their fee regardless of whether you buy it or someone else does.
Furthermore, let's say for a second that I, and the rest of these people actually believe you..... The sample of cars that you drove is massively skewed, since the only used STi that I'd let go to auction is one that's beaten senseless and needs work. Same w/M3, EVO, etc.....
I'm all about sharing info that people have about their shopping process, but the extent to which your observations, even if true, would help anyone, are minimal. And if you're really looking for a car you can occasionally track, grow some ***** and grab a Z instead of that Infiniti crap.
05-19-2005, 11:24 AM
#15
I know many people who have driven very expensive high perf vehicles and all agree the sti feels amazingly solid at high speeds. So.... basically we are calling you out for incorrect statements, whether it's your opinion or not it's wrong.