What do you know about VQ35 and G35/350Zs?

[sleepydsm]

I have always really liked the looks of the G35 coupes, and I am interested in a 6spd 03-04 with Brembos.

What sucks about these cars, what is good about them?

I had heard somewhere that some of the earlier VQs were not great and used oil. Any truth?

-Kevin

[Matt D.]

Those motors are pretty stout in my book. I've known a handful of people with 350Zs and no one really had any complains.

IIRC, only the track version of the 350Z came with Brembos, and at the time they didn't justify the price point you'd pay over the model that was just below it, enthusiast or whatever it is.

[Kracka]

The only real complaint I've heard is interior quality in the early ones. Otherwise, very nice cars. I'd rock one.

[Matt D.]

The only real complaint I've heard is interior quality in the early ones.
Forgot about that. The 350Z interior does seem chintzy, lots of hard plastic, like what you'd expect out of a domestic, but they are a blast to drive.

[Kracka]

Why not just pick up an Evo VIII for about the same price? Coming from a DSM you'd probably feel more at home and be happier with it in the long run.

[Kevin 1G Drummer]

The later model VQ35 ('06+) used a different intake manifold, and I think there were a couple other minor changes, but I don't know exactly what they are. I've heard about the earlier models using a little oil but from what I understand, it's nothing to be worried about. Think a quart or so every 3k miles. I test drove an '03 Z last summer and it was a blast to drive, as well as an '04 G. Of the two, the interior quality of the G was much nicer, and having a back seat would be nice. The Z was way more fun to drive though. The only thing I didn't like about the Z is the rear strut tower bar... The thing is fuckin huge and really cuts out a lot of the view in the rear view mirror. The G was also fun to drive, but didn't feel as nimble or quick as the Z. Both cars had the 6 speed, and they both shifted great. Neither car had the Brembos, but they both stopped pretty well.

[At-Least-It's-An-Evo]

pass. I heard the same thing about the oil issue. If you want a daily, they're pretty awe-ite. If you're looking for something high-power-potential wise for not a million dollars... look elsewhere.

[Tachyon]

Why not just pick up an Evo VIII for about the same price? Coming from a DSM you'd probably feel more at home and be happier with it in the long run.

Oh man, knowing what I know of Kevin, he is going to get very bent out of shape over that comment :biggrin:

I nearly bought one in 2007, but honestly, the interior was the deal breaker. It's complete rubbish. I test drove a 370z last summer and was much happier about the whole package. But decided for the price, I would rather have an NSX.

What about the Genesis?

[Shane@DBPerformance]

G35 is nice, 350Z feels kinda plasticy. The VQ35 isn't a great platform for modding, if you are going crazy. If you want 300-400whp, they aren't bad. But they don't respond to much as far as mods all-motor and to make bigger power you are talking a lot of money in built motor, return fuel system, injectors, standalone, drivetrain, etc.

[GG_9_SE]

If your getting an 03 make sure the warrenty work was done on the syncros. A buddy of mine bought an 03 after the warrenty had expired, his grinds into 3rd, and also 5th.