In most straight-line tests, the G37 tends to accelerate faster than the M45, thanks to a lighter chassis and a more modern drivetrain. The M45 can deliver strong power on paper with its V8, but its heavier weight and older transmission typically limit its 0–60 performance compared with the G37. Exact results vary by year, trim, and tire condition.
To understand why these two Infiniti sedans feel different on the road, this article compares their powertrains, drivetrains, and typical acceleration figures across common model years.
Powerplants and transmission options
Here's a side-by-side look at what motivates each model, including engine size, horsepower, torque, and transmission choices.
- Infiniti M45: 4.5-liter V8 engine, roughly 340 hp with torque around 333–350 lb-ft; typically paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Drives are usually rear-wheel drive, with AWD variants (M45x) available on some models.
- Infiniti G37: 3.7-liter V6 engine, around 330 hp with torque near 270 lb-ft; transmissions have included 5-speed and later 7-speed automatics, with rear-wheel drive as standard and AWD variants (G37x) offered.
In short, the M45 delivers stronger peak horsepower due to its V8, but the G37 benefits from a lighter platform and a more contemporary, multi-gear transmission setup, which often translates to quicker launches in real-world driving.
Why the difference shows up in performance
The M45’s heft and older automatic tuning tend to offset its V8 advantage, leading to slower 0–60 times relative to a well-specified G37. The G37, with a lighter chassis and more gears (especially in earlier 7-speed iterations), typically launches more briskly and feels more eager out of the gate.
0–60 mph performance and returns
Before listing typical times, note that actual numbers depend on year, drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD), tires, and testing method. The following ranges reflect common figures reported by outlets and owner data across the two generations.
- 0–60 mph (typical range): M45 generally about 5.8–6.2 seconds, depending on year and transmission configuration.
- 0–60 mph (typical range): G37 generally about 5.3–5.7 seconds, with newer or sportier transmissions bringing times toward the lower end of that range.
Taken together, the G37 more often lands in a quicker 0–60 bracket than the M45, though the exact gap can be small on certain M45 variants or with specific tire and weather conditions.
Notes on how to interpret the numbers
Acceleration figures can swing a few tenths based on fuel, altitude, gear ratios, and whether the car uses Launch Control or similar systems. AWD variants can also show different figures from their RWD counterparts due to traction differences.
Bottom line and takeaway
For buyers prioritizing outright acceleration and a more modern drivetrain, the G37 is usually the faster choice. Those who value the M-series’ V8 character and a large, spacious luxury sedan may prefer the M45, even if it isn’t consistently quicker off the line. Year, trim, and condition matter more than a simple model-name comparison.
Summary
The Infiniti G37 generally offers faster 0–60 performance than the M45 due to its lighter weight and newer transmission tuning, despite the M45’s higher horsepower from its V8. Differences across years and trims mean there are exceptions, but for most straight-line scenarios, the G37 holds the speed edge. Both cars remain capable luxury sports sedans with distinct character: the M45 for V8 power and presence, the G37 for balanced performance and agility.