Advice in choosing vehicle :)

[jhfreedom]

Hello everyone,

I have been a lurker for a while on this forum and have finally decided to join since I like what the forum has to offer to all of us enthusiasts in Alberta.

So I have pretty much been driving beaters all my life and figured that I should take a leap and get something nicer.

I will probably daily drive it but am also considering purchasing a little winter beater...

It will be either the G35, G37, or the RSX Type-S. Would like to go for a BMW or a Benz but I would be kind of overextending myself.

Pricing is not an issue although I would like to keep it under $26,000 after importation unless I decide to go for the G37.

1. 2007 G35 6MT Ivory Pearl White. CPO vehicle, 50000 Miles, 3 owners (From the exchanged e-mails, current owner seems very obsessive about how he maintains his cars) and oil consumption issue has been resolved with a new version of Rev-up motor at 24000 Miles (Hand built in Japan) and replaced clutch at 34000 Miles. Seller asking $22,000.

2. 2008 G37S 6MT Gray 35000 Miles, 2 owners (Was used as a corporate vehicle for the first owner so that kind of worries me). All options including navigation. Dealership asking $26,000.

3. 2006 RSX Type-S Taffeta White. 50000 Miles, 1 owner. Pretty much all options except for heated seats I think. Dealership asking $16,000.

So I am pretty much leaning towards the G35 or the RSX but I am also concerned about its resale value down the road if I wanted to get rid of it. Would the vehicle being in a recall affect its resale value down the road? I mean, the motor is an advanced version (Reliability wise) and the owners were a lady and a ~32-year old man.

I love the RSX but am leaning towards a classier vehicle.

Thanks very much for your inputs and have a wonderful day!!!

[Sugarphreak]

...

[jhfreedom]

Yeah, but kind of looking for a 6MT if possible. I noticed that Accord EXL's go for a bit higher so I don't want to go that route.

I was maybe just thinking about that RSX, it's just that I would like some torque in the low RPM's ya know...

But then you give up a little bit of resale and reliability...

Keep them replies coming!!!

[2EFNFAST]

Here's my thoughts for what it's worth

- i wouldn't buy a 6spd g35; I've read lots of issues with the rev up engine (oil consumption; heck, it's almost seems like it's the norm now to just rip otu the engine if it has consumption witht hem) and the trannies (constant replacements). I think the first one demonstrates that - it's 22k because it's had to have the engine, clutch, (and porbably tranny) replaced at some point

- forget resale value with a g35/37. I got mine in 03. Paid 51k. Sold it yesterday for 17k. 55k miles, fully loaded (navigation, etc..), minor mods, well maintained and cared for. One of my friends was selling his 06 (or maybe 07, I forget) and he had a bitch of a time selling it. I joked with him about it back then because you see G35/7s everywhere, so how hard could it be to sell...it's a popular car. Well, I almost had ot give mine away for free to get it to move.

[heavyD]

Miles? Are these American cars? Since you are leaning towards a classier vehicle get the G37 as even if the RSX turns out to be a nice car you will always wish you went with the more upscale car. Pass on the G35. New engine and new clutch means it's been through a lot. RSX is a solid car though for a daily driver and pretty reliable. Regardless you should get the cars inspected by a trusted mechanic if you don't know what to look for yourself.

Oh and as always someone will inevitably post up "get a WRX". Ignore them as you are leaning towards luxury/reliability not a hopped up Corolla minus the reliability with AWD.

[syeve]

Don't some of the Acura TL's have a 6 speed?

EDIT - Here is one - KMS are a little high, but still a super nice car IMO

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-2005-Acura-TL-Dynamic-Navi-Package-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ201276616

I will sell you my 2004 S4 for $26k. It has a 6 speed. :)

[benyl]

"American car" and "resale value" should not go in the same sentence.

[jhfreedom]

Hey, thanks for your reply.

I do understand that the Rev-up motors (2005-2007 models) create oil consumption issues and as demonstrated in my first post, it has been replaced with a Version 2 (Hand-built from Japan, seller will verify upon request) as well as a new clutch. Don't know about the entire transmission.

So if the vehicle has been recalled and whatnot, that depreciates its resale value eh?

The car looks so minty tho you know. No accidents and all service records available. I just think it should last a long time as long as I take proper care of it.

You guys still wouldn't go for it if you were in my position eh?

By the way, the seller is in the USA, not in Canada.

Thanks

:clap:

[2EFNFAST]

A US car that's had the engine and clutch replaced (and I'd wager something to the tranny - I've seen so many people with issues and eventual replacements I'd almost bet it was done or will have to be done)........I'd walk far far far away from that deal.

Btw, are your prices USD or CDN?

[jhfreedom]

Syeve, the TL Type-S from 07 to 08 came in a 6-speed manual if I am not mistaken.

And yes benyl, I agree with the fact that American cars don't hold its value compared to its Canadian counterparts.

Heavyd, the G37 has been a corporate vehicle as its first owner so I am worried that people just bag the crap out of it. Hence, that's why it's so cheap I guess...

That's what bothers me the most. I would love to jump ship on a E46 M3 (My dream car) but don't want to fork out ~$40,000 and have to spend extra on repairs. On the other hand, RSXs are great but some days I am going to wish that I didn't cheap out and spent a little bit more extra...

[jhfreedom]

2EFNFAST,

All prices are USD. Thanks for your advice. Any other suggestions? Would much rather prefer Japanese over German (Maybe in a few more years).

[scat19]

Where are the cars actually located?

If it's a US car in USA, you have other fee's to do with importing. And it's very costly, around 2800 dollars for a cluster change and I couldn't drive a G37 without the cluster being changed. You can barely see how fast your going because the needle covers the KM/h

Could you link the cars? I almost bought a G37s from a nissan dealer here for 38, and it sound indentical to the grey S you posted.

[IEatRice]

I can't tell you what to buy. However I can tell you what not to. Avoid any vehicle from a company that accepts government handouts.

[davesparky6]

If you like the RSX, why not go for the TSX?:dunno:
G35/37 is better than both though

[Aleks]

Originally posted by IEatRice
Avoid any vehicle from a company that accepts government handouts.

Why? If I had the means I wouldn't avoid either of these...

http://mikegothard.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/2009-corvette-zr1-official.jpg


http://www.cargurus.com/images/2009/06/12/14/59/2009-cadillac-cts-v-6.2l-sfi-pic-10115.jpeg

[Tomaz]

I like the G37 personally.

Why buy the American versions when there are perfectly good Canadian ones here? :dunno:

[j.garner]

Originally posted by Aleks


Why? If I had the means I wouldn't avoid either of these...

http://mikegothard.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/2009-corvette-zr1-official.jpg


http://www.cargurus.com/images/2009/06/12/14/59/2009-cadillac-cts-v-6.2l-sfi-pic-10115.jpeg

Plus one for the cts-v:hitit:

[jhfreedom]

Hey scat19,

Here are the links to both vehicles. I am going to concentrate on the G35/G37 for the time being.

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=277186586&dealer_id=65160825&car_year=2007&rdm=1272473819776&lastStartYear=1981&model=G35&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=2007&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=0&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&make=INFIN&keywords_display=&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceASC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceASC&address=59401&advanced=y&end_year=2007&doors=Two%20Door&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=1782&standard=false&rdpage=thumb

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=277908099&dealer_id=100037500&car_year=2008&rdm=1272474044437&lastStartYear=1981&model=G37&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=2008&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=0&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&first_record=76&make=INFIN&keywords_display=&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceASC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceASC&address=59401&advanced=y&end_year=2008&pager.offset=75&doors=Two%20Door&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=1515&standard=false&rdpage=thumb

As far as cluster change goes, it is it MANDATORY? I thought all you had to change was the DRLs... I can pretty much convert the MPH to KPH in my head so I don't think that's too much of an issue...

I might even hold out until this winter because RWD vehicle prices seem to drop the most during those seasons. Should be able to find a nice one for $25,000.

Tomaz,

Because it is still cheaper (After importation dues) to import one from the US if you are able to pay it for cash. As benyl mentioned, the depreciation sucks but I think if you can find a good enough deal, you should be able to break even or take a little bit of a loss in a two year time frame.

Davesparky6,

I have also considered the TSX and the TL Type-S. Great daily drivers. But my heart is leaning towards the Infiniti because those two are FWD and I don't know if I want either cars as a 6MT. Harder to sell in the future I think...

Alexs,

Lol if I had the means, I go C63 or RS4. But to each his own I guess. The ZR1 is one sexy ride I tell ya.

[Tomaz]

Originally posted by jhfreedom

Tomaz,

Because it is still cheaper (After importation dues) to import one from the US if you are able to pay it for cash. As benyl mentioned, the depreciation sucks but I think if you can find a good enough deal, you should be able to break even or take a little bit of a loss in a two year time frame.


Linky! (http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/Edmonton_Alberta_2005_INFINITI_G35_136406.html?srcID=5&frnID=6074432&cofid=CT200448104533379&prv=Alberta&r=20)

Soooo, that doesn't suit your needs?

G35, it's $22k, with under 100kms (59030Miles)... And it is in Edmonton. Your $25k car in the states brought over here, plus the changeover to Canadian spec will cost you $28k+.

Just saying.... lol

[jhfreedom]

Hey Tomaz,

That one is an auto, not a 6MT (6MTs cost a little more if I am not mistaken lol).

The $22,000 G35 is a 2007 6MT model. Yes, I am aware that it would cost roughly $26,000 after all importation costs.

But if you do a search on a 2007 6MT G35, it would be a heck a lot more...

The $25,000 car I was talking about was a G37S, not a G35...

[benyl]

http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/Calgary_Alberta_2007_INFINITI_G35_1104116.html?srcID=5&frnID=7360734&cofid=20053211152706&prv=Alberta&r=20

http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/Calgary_Alberta_2007_INFINITI_G35_755344.html?srcID=5&frnID=7059408&cofid=20053211152706&prv=Alberta&r=20

[jhfreedom]

Hey Benyl, thanks for those links.

On the other hand, what about this one then? Notice that I am only talking about 6MT Coupes (Because this model was the most expensive model when it rolled off the showroom)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Fully-Loaded-2007-Infiniti-G35-Coupe-6MT-Premium-Pkg-/220590162907?cmd=ViewItem&pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item335c32c3db

After importation, $27000-$28000 after taxes and all expenses so you still save roughly $5000...

I understand where you are coming from in regards to resale and junk cars they are selling in the USA.

Adding the fact of time and hassle in bringing it over to Canada may not seem like its worth it to a lot of people...

But I think as long as the vehicle passes inspection and you do regular maintenance on it and don't bag the crap out of it (I would be revving it every once a while because it would be pointless to baby it every single time), should still be okay right?

I mean, G37S are currently going for $26K and will be lower come winter time... I remember seeing some nice ones a couple months ago (30000 Miles or less) for $26K...

You guys think the G37S' will have the similar oil consumption issue and transmission failures like the G35?

[Orbie]

Go for the G37, the upgrade in interior alone is worth it IMHO. I had one for 2 years and it was a good reliable car. I had a first MY car too, no issues with oil consumption or tranny, but then again I only had it for 2 years so who knows what might come about as they age. Although I do visit the G37 forums from time to time, and I haven't seen the long time owners there complain either. Only reason I moved on was because I got bored of it and wanted something a little more sports oriented than luxury.

Keep in mind that there aren't many Infiniti dealerships in Alberta, so service may be a bitch. I bought the car in Calgary but I remember the dealerships turned back anyone with an imported car for one bull excuse or another.

[911fever]

Ignore everyone that says US cars don't hold the same resale as Canadian cars. I deal with US cars constantly in the car industry, and they don't really take huge hits here. Often they are in not only better shape, but they have never seen winter before. /waits for someone to insert US cars have seen flooding before
/end rant

Get the G37S. That RSX is overpriced and is old and you'll regret buying it. Just like the G35 is old now too, slow, and is incredibly dull compared to the G37. That G37 price could be slightly negotiated too. They are pretty reliable and are great cars, comparable to the 335i... almost

Also, want a car you can get for 32k Canadian that's a "Canadian" car and is a good deal?
08 G37 -6 speed and performance pcgk's
http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/MARKHAM_Ontario_2008_INFINITI_G37_123756.html?srcID=5&frnID=5970147&cofid=ON20080331100844500&prv=Ontario&r=40

08 G37S 6speed 16,000km
http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/SCARBOROUGH_Ontario_2008_INFINITI_G37_113206.html?srcID=5&frnID=5850427&cofid=ON20080102102602125&prv=Ontario&r=40

If you decide to buy Canadian, buy from Ontario, many G37's haven't been driven all year long, so they see no winters, and if any have, it's been such a small instance (these cars are only 2 years old) that salt worries are nonexistent

[stokwa]

Originally posted by 911fever
Ignore everyone that says US cars don't hold the same resale as Canadian cars. I deal with US cars constantly in the car industry, and they don't really take huge hits here. Often they are in not only better shape, but they have never seen winter before. /waits for someone to insert US cars have seen flooding before
/end rant

Get the G37S. That RSX is overpriced and is old and you'll regret buying it. Just like the G35 is old now too, slow, and is incredibly dull compared to the G37. That G37 price could be slightly negotiated too. They are pretty reliable and are great cars, comparable to the 335i... almost

Also, want a car you can get for 32k Canadian that's a "Canadian" car and is a good deal?
08 G37 -6 speed and performance pcgk's
http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/MARKHAM_Ontario_2008_INFINITI_G37_123756.html?srcID=5&frnID=5970147&cofid=ON20080331100844500&prv=Ontario&r=40

08 G37S 6speed 16,000km
http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_Car_details/SCARBOROUGH_Ontario_2008_INFINITI_G37_113206.html?srcID=5&frnID=5850427&cofid=ON20080102102602125&prv=Ontario&r=40

If you decide to buy Canadian, buy from Ontario, many G37's haven't been driven all year long, so they see no winters, and if any have, it's been such a small instance (these cars are only 2 years old) that salt worries are nonexistent

Listen to this guy :)

[slinkie]

Originally posted by heavyD

Oh and as always someone will inevitably post up "get a WRX". Ignore them as you are leaning towards luxury/reliability not a hopped up Corolla minus the reliability with AWD.

:rolleyes: