vie2233hil

Hello,

It looks like they holding Z back and pushing G35 to get ready to introduce GTR in 2007 under Infinity brand. G35 will have "new sport-tuned suspension" and HP increase will offset the weight.
If difference in price is not a concern is G35 a better choice for 2005 in terms of handling? I personally like Z trim better though.

Thanks

shiva

Simpy put, the Z handles better.

The G35C's longer wheelbase contributes to a sense of stability in corners, but it dulls the driving experience quite a bit. The larger turning radius reduces your ability to make deft movements. In the G35C, you are positioned farther from the rear wheels, so you feel like you are dragging along a big (though admittedly well sculpted and good looking) ***.

The G35C weighs 200 extra pounds. The G35C does not shed its speed as quickly as the Z, and does not carry it as well through corners. The extra weight leads to lower technical limits, as evidenced by slalom tests and general track experience. The 2005 G35C will actually weigh 75lbs more than the current G35C.

I am not terribly optimistic about the new G35C's "sport tuned suspension." The current G35C sacrifices some of the Z's direct, connected feel for a softer ride. The 19" wheels included in the new G35C's sport package will kill ride quality. To counteract this, Infiniti may soften the G35C's suspension even further.

Right now, the G35C honestly handles more like the G35 sedan than the 350Z; the 2005 G35C isn't going to improve in this regard. Keep in mind that all of these cars handle very well, so you are not sacrificing that much if you go with the G35.

And no, Nissan is not "holding the Z back" - please take a look at the 20 or so redundant threads on the improvements being made to the 2005 Track and Anniversary Zs .

Gsedan35

iTrader: (10)

I basically support what your saying, alway's have. But, your laying too much blame on wheelbase and weight. The Z has alway's benefited from much stiffer shock valving, not too mention being a tid bit lower via 1/2" shorter springs. Those tigher shocks make a word of difference when it comes time to pilot the car on the track. Here's what Road & Track say's about what I'm talking about.

"Dynamically, there are few cars so immediately comfortable to drive quickly. Thoughtful chassis and suspension tuning have made it relatively easy (and hugely satisfying) to hustle the Z around offramps and racetracks alike. Excellent overall balance allows it to seamlessly process braking, steering and throttle inputs without unduly upsetting the chassis. Fore-to-aft weight transfer has a minimal effect on the car's composure, allowing the driver to transition from braking to power more quickly when cornering."

So,...if, that is "IF", the 2005 G35 Coupe with the Sport suspension get's the same suspension as the Z has now, they will have removed the core element that has benefited the Z this whole time. Leaving you with the weight and wheelbase difference, it will come down to oem tire fitments and the talent of each driver. That being said, corner me on the tarmac, which one would I want to use to go for the win, I would sheepishly ask for the Z

Gsedan35

iTrader: (10)

Oh, spring rates are the same as are the oem sway bars Z to G coupe.

shiva

Yes, the Z's suspension is stiffer, which may exaggerate its fundamental advantage in weight and wheelbase. Keep in mind, though, that the G35 comes with superior Michelin Pilot Sports - tires that leads some people to believe that the G35 handles as well as the Z in these numerous G35 vs. 350Z threads.

xswl0931

Note that Road and Track got:

G35c 0.92g, 67.7 slalom, 117 ft
350Z 0.89g, 65.6 slalom, 119 ft

The 350Z did beat the G35c in 0-60 and 1/4 as expected due to power/weight. Most people say the G35c has better grip (largely due to the tires) and the 350Z is more nimble.

shiva

Correct, but these numbers are only indicative of the quality of the tires, not the handling prowess of the car (I wonder why they put the touring tires on the sports car and the sports tires on the touring car). I've seen a lot of 350Z vs. G35 discussions where people argue that the G35 handles as well as the 350Z, on the basis of these numbers. A Mustang GT puts down similar skidpad numbers comparable to the G35's, but that car clearly doesn't handle as well as the G35.

ExtaZ33

iTrader: (1)

you're right shivak. skidpad doesn't mean anything in reality. either way, both cars are great with handling. if you plan on pushing the limits, you'll probably mod the suspension anyway. go with the car you think looks better