The Infiniti M45 is not a highly restricted, limited-edition vehicle, but it is relatively uncommon in today’s market. It sits in a niche category: a V8-powered luxury sedan from the mid-2000s that appears infrequently in used-car listings compared with mainstream rivals.
Launched as part of Infiniti’s early M lineup, the M45 shared its platform with the M35 and used a 4.5-liter V8. It was produced from the early 2000s through the late 2000s, receiving updates before the line evolved into later models such as the M56 and, eventually, the Q70. Because production volumes were modest and most examples are now aging, surviving cars are less common than their V6 siblings but can still be found through specialized channels and enthusiast networks.
Rarity in context
Several factors shape whether a model is considered rare. The M45’s rarity is tied to production volumes, how long the model stayed in production, and the model’s ongoing availability in the used market. The following points summarize these factors.
- Modest production compared with mainstream sedans: The M45 was a niche product within Infiniti’s lineup, built to offer a V8 option rather than mass-volume sales.
- Time and aging: Most examples are now more than a decade old, which reduces their presence in drivable condition and increases maintenance needs.
- Market distribution: The largest concentration of M45s was in the United States, with far fewer units sold in other regions.
- Absence of widely publicized limited editions: The M45 did not have a widely recognized special-edition run, which limits scarcity beyond standard production.
- Enthusiast interest: There is a niche but steady following for V8-powered Infiniti sedans, which can elevate perceived rarity among collectors or buyers.
In practice, the Infiniti M45 remains a relatively uncommon sight on the road, but it is not a true rarity in the sense of a limited-edition model with very low production numbers.
Where to find an Infiniti M45 today
Because the M45 is a niche model, your best bets for finding one are specialized channels and ongoing used-car listings.
- Used-car marketplaces and dealer inventories: Look on sites like Autotrader, CarGurus, and Cars.com for 2003–2009 M45 models with solid maintenance histories.
- Enthusiast clubs and forums: Infiniti owner communities often list cars for sale and can help connect buyers with well-kept examples.
- Auctions and specialty dealerships: Local auctions and shops that focus on luxury or Japanese-brand cars can yield opportunities that mainstream dealers miss.
- Local classifieds and word-of-mouth: Private sellers sometimes offer lower prices, though due diligence is essential.
- Inspection priorities: Prioritize evidence of routine maintenance, timing/valve-train health, and transmission condition, as aging components can be costly to repair.
Because maintenance costs can be higher for a 15- to 20-year-old luxury sedan, buyers typically pay close attention to service history, overall mechanical condition, and rust-free bodywork when evaluating a candidate M45.
Buyer considerations
Prospective owners should be mindful of parts availability, the potential for higher repair bills, and the need for specialists who understand the M platform. A well-documented ownership history and thorough pre-purchase inspection can make the difference between a reliable purchase and a costly misstep.
Summary
The Infiniti M45 offers a distinctive proposition: a V8-powered, mid-2000s luxury sedan with a unique character. It is not a rare, limited-run vehicle, but it remains relatively uncommon in the used market, especially in well-maintained condition with verifiable service records. For enthusiasts who value a V8 Infiniti with a timeless design, the M45 represents a niche but attainable option, best pursued with patience and due diligence.