Glad I drive a 35 vs. 45

[Stan_izzle]

After reading about the engine issue on the 45s, I looked up the engine the 35 has on wakopedia. I'm glad the dealer didn't have any 45s on the lot that I could afford when I bought mine. Anyway here is what they had.

"VQ35DE The VQ35DE engine is used in many modern Nissan vehicles. Bore and stroke are 95.5 mm and 81.4 mm. It uses a similar block design to the VQ30DE, but adds variable valve timing. It produces 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) to 302 PS (222 kW; 298 hp) of power and 246 to 268 ft·lbf (334 to 363 N·m) of torque.

The VQ35DE is built in Iwaki and Decherd, TN. It was on the Ward's 10 Best Engines list from 2002 through to 2007. It features forged steel connecting rods, a microfinished one-piece cast crankshaft, and Nissan's nylon intake manifold technology. It has low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons and the intake is a high-flow tuned induction system.

A modified version of the VQ35DE, called the S1, is produced by Nismo (Nissan's motorsports and performance division) for the Fairlady Z S-Tune GT. It produces 300 PS (220 kW; 300 hp) at 7,200 rpm, a higher rev-limit than that of the original VQ35DE. The 350Z GT-S concept has a VQ35DE equipped with a switchable Novidem supercharger, producing around 382 PS (281 kW; 377 hp) with the supercharger switched on."

[ArbitrageMan]

I'm glad you're happy with your car. I often think, I didn't really NEED the V8. Then I'll be driving and need to step on the gas and every thought is erased as I'm crushed back into my seat.

I'm not sure what you read regarding reliability, but I haven't had any problems with the engine in my car. Even if I did, all Ms have a 6 year/70,000 factory power-train warranty.

Again, glad your happy with your car, and there's no denying the fact that the VQ35DE was one of the best car engines ever made. Someone can correct me if Im wrong on this, but wasn't the VQ35DE just an upgrade from the VQ30DE, which was on wards 10 best back in 1995.

http://en.wakopedia.org/wiki/W...gines

[hawkfan]

I test drove an '07 M35 last Saturday and have to say I was impressed to say the least. I drive an '02 I35 with the VQ35 engine and have to say it is more than up to the task when it comes to power. The M35 seems to be a bit stronger due to the engine revisions and transmission though. But the M35 would be more than enough for me to enjoy driving it on a daily basis. The M45 would just be overkill. But I am really impressed with the step change from the I35 to the M35. I also test drove an '07 Lexus GS 350, and while very nice, I just preferred the M35 Sport due to it's "sportiness" edge over the Lexus. Plus the Lexus was priced about $6,000 more.

[pangpang77]

I drive the 35 because I'm in the Northeast and needed the "x" part. So when the M56 comes out and M56x is offered, you gotta go for the 430 ponies! I mean really, a Toyota Camry with 260HP should be more than enough, but that's not what getting an M is about about, no?!

[M45Runner]

The VQ35 engine is one of the best, no doubt. While we all know that the VK45 has oil burning issue due to the loose fit (in order to generate more power), I would not discount it to say it is not a good engine.

When I bought my M45, the thought was: M35 adn M45 get the same gas mileage (when both are paired with 5spd) and the M45 provides more power at a price of 1 qt. of oil every 2-3k miles on average (it varies). So, to me, it is well worth to buy the extra oil to get more power. To others, if the extra power /bragging rights are not that important, you can get M35 with additional peace of mind that the engine is almost bullet proof.

[ken in az]

Yup, no denying it the VQ35DE is a sweet engine but it does lack in the power department stock.

While that document is a little dated to say the least....The HR engine is vastly superior to the regular VQ and the M35 did not get that update till 09'.

Any complaints in the power department can easily made up for with aftermarket support. The VQ35DE is very mod friendly where as the vk45 is not.

ps: my VK45 does not consume any oil - even after the track day session at firebird I am still exactly where I was when I changed my oil.

[Stan_izzle]

Wasn't trying to knock the VK45 engine. I'm was just stating I was glad I unknowingly chose a better car for me. I'm what most of you on here would call mechanically challeneged, I don't even change my own oil. Which is sad for me to say seeing that I worked on helicopters for 6yrs as an Electrician while I was in the Army. If I could of afforded it at the time I would of gone with a 45 sport.

[antzrus]

I drive a 35. And every time I pull into that left lane w/my foot on the gas and pass a slower moving machine I always get more than I need. I mean why would I go w/something bigger?

I think I know. When I was younger (I'm 62) it was very important to run faster, be stronger, throw farther, be cooler, have the more muscular machine etc., etc. Now that I'm an old fart and have already been there, done that I wonder. "What was I thinking, what was the big deal..?"

Old age certainly does mellow some of us out.

[fiveliterbeater]

After reading about the engine issue on the 45s, I looked up the engine the 35 has on wakopedia. I'm glad the dealer didn't have any 45s on the lot that I could afford when I bought mine. Anyway here is what they had.

.....to be honest, when i read your post, i keep saying to myself ".....whatever makes yourself sleep better at night brother"

anyway, since you're a big fan of research, i thought you might enjoy what i found too :

quote from: http://en.wakopedia.org/wiki/Nissan_VK_engine

The 4.5 L (4494 cc) VK45DE was introduced in 2002 and is built in Yokohama, Japan. Bore is 93 mm (3.7 in) and stroke is 82.7 mm (3.26 in). Output is 340 hp (254 kW) at 6400 rpm with 333 ft·lbf (451 Nm) of torque at 4000 rpm. Redline is at 6600 rpm. It has an aluminum engine block and aluminum DOHC cylinder heads. It uses SFI fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder with VVT and features forged steel connecting rods, 4 one-piece cast camshafts, and an unusual variable-flow induction system optimizes airflow for low- and high-speed operation and low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons and microfinished crankshaft.

it also goes on to say:

Warning to all those who own this engine** All VK45de engine consume oil. The PCV-positive crank case ventalation passages in the valve covers are not desigened correctly and flow too much, thus allowing large amouts of oil into the intake system. The engine will eventually develope low compression in the rear most cylinders first. To easily confirm this condition- remove the intake duct from the throttle chamber and open the throttle flap manually. Large amounts of oil residue will be seen, as well as oil pooling in the back of the intake manifold plentum

interesting enough though it says this:

If you are mechanically savvy you can fix this problem. Remove the fresh air hose, and both pcv valve hoses. Install a second pcv valve inline with the factory one using acrylic hose. then install an inline moisture filter (like the ones used with automotive paint sprayers) inline on all three hose. The moisture filters will need to be replaced incombination with your yearly service. For disposable inline filters see any automotive paint or most parts stores.



....and something interesting i didn't know untill now

....The VK45DE is used by Nismo for Super GT races with the Nissan GT-R instead of using the GT-R's VR38DETT twin-turbo V6 engine.[1] The VK45DE was previously used in Nissan's 350Z Super GT car, replacing the previous VQ30DETT used in that car in 2007. In race trim, the Super GT VK45DE produces 500 PS (490 hp) and 52 kg·m (380 ft·lbf) of torque.[2] The engine idles at around 3500 RPM and is restricted to the above specified power output. Without such restrictions, the engine is reputedly capable of producing nearly 800 PS (790 hp).[3] Nismo reasons that by using the engine, they eliminate turbo-lag, save weight and generally prefer the torque curve of the atmospheric V8.

VK45DE

congrats though on the new M

post up pics when you can


Modified by fiveliterbeater at 10:12 AM 11/6/2009

[rsg123]

I test drove both the 35 and 45 and the feeling/sound of the V8 was addictive. The 35 was quick as well, but lacked the push-you-into-your-seat power and roar of the 45. Cost of ownership is very close and having the biggest and best (M) is also nice.

[ken in az]

Old age certainly does mellow some of us out.

HAHA! when I read that for some reason I thought of this Carrol Shelby vid....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEdJYCwxgUk

[antzrus]

HAHA! when I read that for some reason I thought of this Carrol Shelby vid....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEdJYCwxgUk

Hey, I implied I was old; not ancient!!

[ArbitrageMan]

HAHA! when I read that for some reason I thought of this Carrol Shelby vid....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEdJYCwxgUk

He really short-shifts... Or maybe its the car. What does a mustang red-line at? 3000 rpm? 2500?

[1scott]

I agree with you on the G35. My Wifes cousin has a 05 G35 and I drove it before I brought my M45. The 05 G35 had a very rough ride and was pretty fast but nothing to brag about, so I discounted the new G35/37 when I went car shopping earlier this year.

I made the mistake of driving the M35 and still wanted something more, so I drove the M45. It was the best car I have ever driven with a perfect combination of size, luxury, and handling. I love a V8 and always thought their was no substitute for one (My Wifes car has a V8 also).

Well fast forward seven months later and ten thousand miles I have added 8 quarts of oil to keep the level at full. The car keeps passing the consumption tests just barely, the smoke out the tail pipe is discouraging to say the least.

The good news is the dealer did give me a 07/08 model G35 as a loaner car and man I did I love it. My presumtion that I need a car with a V8 were sqashed. The G35 with the new V6 is a freaking hot rod! It is so light and well balanced, I wish it had more room but that would kill the light wieght. I did notice some very cheap interior pieces on the G, like the door handles were completly worn away on the loaner. I can live with a few cheap interior parts and I want a car that can go 150k without needing an engine overhaul or major work like the M45s, for this I think the G fits the bill better than the M. I would trade it right now for the G37 but I am so FRUSTRATED at the piss poor customer service I am receiving from the factory and dealer. Ok I re read the title for this post, and swore it said G35 vs M45, anyway enjoy the read and your M35.
Modified by 1scott at 5:53 PM 11/6/2009

[ken in az]

Hey, I implied I was old; not ancient!!

lol - sorry I actually was thinking of a different video but I couldn't find it, he was much younger, but just hopped into an old blue shelby cobra and just started doing endless burnouts.

[nadzak]

Had an 06 G35 when I purchased my M35. Drove the G for a year parallel with the M...Both are great rides. The G is in my heart, a habit in a way. Super fast. Very comfortable, and surprisingly big inside. My M is all customized, and it is another great whip, but if we are talking about an Infiniti experience, the 06G35 is what Infiniti is all about!

[rsg123]

The G35 feels small inside. My brother has an 07 and it's claustrophobic compared to the M.

[AD1787]

On here you hear all the problems. Dont forget there are thousands of happy M45 drivers that dont come to these forums to tell you how great the car is.

Mine is 3 years old and there are no service records dealing with engine issues

[mcdoken]

One ever recurring problem you'll find with the 35 is a lack of power underneath the bonnet.

[nadzak]

One ever recurring problem you'll find with the 35 is a lack of power underneath the bonnet.

Not in mine, bud. Plus, we have already talked about this. The 35 can be modded very inexpensively, and you will end up with a lot more power than the 45.

[m-licious]

i know a lot of people talk about modding the m35 engine but it seems few here do. it would seem that the m45 would be a good off the shelf alternative for those hesitant to mess with the engine block. i'm not saying one car is better than the other but simply clarifying that for those whom wanted more stock power, the m45 is a much better choice than the pipe dream of modding the m35 engine, which few will do. not saying it hasn't been done, but that even on a "enthusiast" site like this, we have simply a handful.

both cars are great. one is lighter, cheaper and bulletproof. the other is heavier, stronger, and MAY have oil consumption issues. why must there be a pepsi vs coke argument? drink what you like.

[gbpdx]

The VQ35DE engine is a development of the earlier Infiniti engines in my M30 and my two departed J30's. Just wonderful, strong engines. The M30 has a VG30E engine, and the J30 a VG30DE engine.

And ... love that new on line reference wakopedia. Perhaps it is related to the well renowned wikikpedia? Go to http://en.wakopedia.org/wiki/Nissan_VQ_engine for a history of this engine. There are links from that page to the whole family of Nissan engines.

[nadzak]

i know a lot of people talk about modding the m35 engine but it seems few here do. it would seem that the m45 would be a good off the shelf alternative for those hesitant to mess with the engine block. i'm not saying one car is better than the other but simply clarifying that for those whom wanted more stock power, the m45 is a much better choice than the pipe dream of modding the m35 engine, which few will do. not saying it hasn't been done, but that even on a "enthusiast" site like this, we have simply a handful.

both cars are great. one is lighter, cheaper and bulletproof. the other is heavier, stronger, and MAY have oil consumption issues. why must there be a pepsi vs coke argument? drink what you like.

Brilliant deduction!

[07sportm35]

Had an 06 G35 when I purchased my M35. Drove the G for a year parallel with the M...Both are great rides. The G is in my heart, a habit in a way. Super fast. Very comfortable, and surprisingly big inside. My M is all customized, and it is another great whip, but if we are talking about an Infiniti experience, the 06G35 is what Infiniti is all about!

In terms of strait line performance you are dead on (IMO). The 7 speed G37 is a beast. 13.5 seconds in the quarter mile and zero to 60 in 5 seconds stock. A little bit of modding and you have a 12 second 4 door sedan albeit a small one(the car is not roomy). What I really liked is the agressive "DS" mode and the low speed cornering sure I'll go into first gear tendencies. The "DS" mode down shifts VERY agressively. Stays in higher RPMs and is always ready!!!!

I have never been crazy about the looks of the G37 personally. Maybe with the right wheels...

In terms of creature comforts, build quality, dash, luxury, ride quality, the "M" kills the "G".

During the loaner car "G" sessions, I make sure to beat up on a few folks while their wondering "what is his regular ride like for christ sakes"???

With suspension Mods and the right tires the "M" can out handle the stock "G"--and feels better balanced. But yes a stock "G" out handles a stock "M". God I love the sporty short shifter, then again I'm talkin' the sport edition(don't like the wood).

The "G" is a fun car for sure. Unfortunetly, the loaner car had leaks and felt cheap. Oh but the acceleration...

[bicsintegra]

the g35 coupe is a beast the sedan i do not like at all especially when it is the loaner car. i would rather have the M45 but the M35 is good for the intorductory luxury car. after this will most defintely have to be a 8 cylindr like the Lexus LS 600 that car is incredible.

[rsg123]

Another thing to consider is that the stock M35 and 45 have comparable fuel economy. When you mod an M35, that will most probably change. Why not just get an M45? When I bought mine 7 months ago the used 45s were cheaper than the 35s. As stated before, not every M45 has oil consumption issues, including mine.

[Stan_izzle]

My co worker is always calling it that. It's rubbed off on me, I didn't realize I typed that until you mentioned it.

[hawkfan]

Another thing to consider is that the stock M35 and 45 have comparable fuel economy. When you mod an M35, that will most probably change. Why not just get an M45? When I bought mine 7 months ago the used 45s were cheaper than the 35s. As stated before, not every M45 has oil consumption issues, including mine.

I'm not sure the fuel economy is all that close between the two cars. I know the EPA ratings are only 2MPG apart but I thought the "real world" MPG differed a lot more. I've read some reports of some people getting 26-28 out of the M35 on the highway, which sounds more in line with what I would expect out of the VQ35. That's what is factoring into my decision to get an '07 M35 Sport over an '07 M45. But I'm still researching and digging so I reserve the right to change my mind. But I gotta admit, the engine note and thrust of that '07 M35 I test drove was friggin AWESOME!!!

[gangstar946]

I agree, but this....this is somethinghttp://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors...rucks

[rsg123]

I'm not sure the fuel economy is all that close between the two cars. I know the EPA ratings are only 2MPG apart but I thought the "real world" MPG differed a lot more. I've read some reports of some people getting 26-28 out of the M35 on the highway, which sounds more in line with what I would expect out of the VQ35. That's what is factoring into my decision to get an '07 M35 Sport over an '07 M45. But I'm still researching and digging so I reserve the right to change my mind. But I gotta admit, the engine note and thrust of that '07 M35 I test drove was friggin AWESOME!!!

If I am driving only on the highway my mileage is in the 24-25 range. Have you driven an M45 for comparison?There is no doubt that the 3.5 is a great engine. You will be happy either way.