The Infiniti Q50 is almost always faster than the older G35, especially in its higher-performance variants. Even the base Q50 outpaces most G35 configurations, and the range-topping Red Sport/400 models are markedly quicker still.
Infiniti’s G35 represents the brand’s mid-2000s performance sedan, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produced horsepower in the upper 200s depending on year and body style. The Q50, launched in 2014 as the successor to the G-series, leans on a more modern platform with a 3.7-liter V6 that delivers about 328 horsepower in base form, plus higher-performance variants that push output toward 400 hp. Real-world acceleration is also influenced by weight, drivetrain (rear- vs all-wheel drive), and tires.
Performance snapshot by generation
The following breakdown compares the G35 era with the modern Q50 lineup, focusing on power output, available drivetrains, and typical acceleration figures. Figures can vary by model year and testing method.
Infiniti G35 (2003–2006)
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (VQ35DE) rated roughly 265–280 hp depending on year and trim.
- Drivetrain: Primarily rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive (G35x) available in some versions.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual in select markets.
Concluding note: The G35 delivered brisk performance for its era, but its acceleration figures sit below those of contemporary V6 sport sedans in many comparisons.
Infiniti Q50 (2014–present)
Note: The following list highlights the typical powertrain options, drivetrain choices, and transmissions across common Q50 trims.
- Engine options: Base 3.7-liter V6 around 328 hp; higher trims and Red Sport variants push output toward 350–400 hp depending on model year; turbo 2.0-liter options offered in some years with ~208–252 hp.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available on many trims, including performance-focused variants.
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic with manual shift mode widely used.
Concluding note: The Q50 generally delivers quicker acceleration across the board, with Red Sport models achieving notably faster 0–60 times than the G35-era cars.
0–60 mph and real-world performance
Practically, consumers care about how quickly the car reaches 60 mph. The following figures illustrate typical ranges across representative trims, while acknowledging year-to-year variation and testing conditions.
- G35 sedan (2003–2006): typically around 6.0–6.8 seconds; coupe variants can be similar or slightly faster depending on spec.
- G35x AWD: usually a bit slower than RWD versions due to drivetrain losses, often in the mid-to-high 6 seconds range.
- Q50 base (2014–2018): approximately 5.0–5.5 seconds with the 3.7L V6 and rear-wheel drive; AWD variants are similar with minor traction-related differences.
- Q50 Red Sport / 400 (late-2010s): commonly in the 4.3–4.8 seconds range; strongest Red Sport 400 models tend to run around 4.5–4.7 seconds depending on year and launch conditions.
Bottom line: Across the lineup, the Q50 outpaces the G35, especially when comparing the base Q50 to older G35 variants and dramatically so in the Red Sport/400 versions. Real-world numbers depend on equipment and conditions.
Summary
The Infiniti Q50 is the faster car overall, particularly in its higher-performance trims. The G35 was a strong performer in its time but trails the Q50 in horsepower, acceleration, and available performance technology. If speed is the priority, the Q50—especially the Red Sport variants—offers a clear advantage, while the G35 remains a compelling, more affordable classic option for enthusiasts.