Shocking Showdown: Underdog Infiniti G37 Defeats BMW 335i in Epic Performance Test!

In a thrilling automotive showdown reminiscent of classic rivalries, the 2008 Infiniti G37 coupe faced off against the 2007 BMW 335i coupe. This comparison, hailed as a "grudge match" and lauded for its plot twists, aimed to determine if an $8,000 price gap could be overcome by the BMW's dynamic prowess. The two-door versions of these popular cars received significant upgrades beyond mere aesthetic tweaks, including new engines designed to elevate their performance.

The BMW 335i was equipped with a new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, generating an even 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Infiniti retaliated by stroking its 3.5-liter VQ V-6 to 3.7 liters, and with a sophisticated variable valve timing and lift system, the G37 coupe boasted a 10-percent advantage in horsepower over the 335i, though it had a similar disadvantage in torque. The Infiniti also featured a clever 4-Wheel Active Steering (4WAS) system, which was not present in its sedan predecessor.

Coupes, by their very nature, prioritize form over function, allowing designers greater freedom to create emotionally appealing vehicles. The BMW 335i coupe was 2.4 inches longer and 1.8 inches lower than its sedan counterpart, while the Infiniti G37 coupe was 2.8 inches wider and lower. Both offered less passenger and cargo space, clear concessions to style. The G37's design was described as a Japanese calligrapher's brush-stroke, minimally adorned, while the BMW's classic proportions, poised stance, and menacing four-eyed visage held a different appeal.

These distinct personalities extended to their interiors. The BMW's cockpit featured wood veneers and soft, double-stitched leather, exuding an established luxury. In contrast, the innovative Infiniti showcased aluminum trim with a Japanese washi-paper finish and violet mood lighting. For those considering rear passengers, the BMW offered considerably more comfort, with ample head and legroom for sub-six-footers, along with amenities like a center armrest, A/C vents, and reading lights, none of which the Infiniti provided. The G37's low, bobbed tail also limited trunk space to a convertible-like 7.4 cubic feet, significantly less than the 335i coupe's 11.1 cubic feet.

The performance drama began at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama. On this fast track, the G37 displayed impressive grip and minimal body roll, feeling very capable. Its massive 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear brakes (on S models) endured multiple hot laps admirably. The six-speed manual G37 offered precise gear shifts, reminiscent of the last-generation BMW 3 Series. However, a BMW 335i coupe provided for comparison suffered an oil overheating issue, pegging its gauge at 300 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to an extended pit-stop.

For the subsequent road test, an Infiniti G37 equipped with premium and sport packages, 4WAS, and a five-speed automatic (estimated just under $40,000) was pitted against a fresh BMW 335i coupe with similar packages and BMW's new ZF six-speed automatic, priced at $47,775 – an $8,000 difference. Automatic transmissions were chosen for their popularity and technical interest. Both cars featured paddle shifters and adaptive sport-driving algorithms, delivering crisp upshifts and rev-matched downshifts.

On a 100-mile interstate drive, the Infiniti proved easier to live with, offering standard keyless entry and starting (a $500 extra on BMW) and a more intuitive Bluetooth phone interface. Its A/C and radio could be controlled via traditional buttons, a screen, or voice commands. A notable gaffe in the BMW was its radio display turning black when viewed through polarized glasses. While the G37 had better telescoping wheel travel, the BMW generally offered a slightly more cushioned ride over rough freeway stretches.

On the tortuously bent tarmac of Alabama Highway 176, dampened by light rain and mist, both cars' Bridgestone Potenza RE050As demonstrated remarkable grip. The G37's stability control rarely intervened forcefully, and its steering felt natural, turning in sharply and predictably. The 4WAS system subtly disguised the G's 54/46 front/rear weight bias, making it feel closer to the BMW's 51/49. The G37's transmission in 'S' mode adeptly retained lower gears and provided dramatic rev-matched downshifts. The BMW's natural steering felt lighter but was equally accurate. However, the 335i's twin-turbo engine, coupled with the lack of a mechanical limited-slip differential (standard on the G37), led to more frequent DSC intervention on wet corner exits.

After rigorous testing, neither car could definitively pull away in handling, and surprisingly, the BMW's oil temperature again approached critical levels (280 F) on a cool, misty morning, highlighting a potential cooling issue for enthusiastic driving without an oil cooler. BMW later installed oil coolers on manual Sport models and then automatics with the Sport package, but no recall was issued for earlier models.

At Alabama International Dragway, objective performance measurements revealed the BMW's shorter gearing and greater torque gave it a 0.3-second lead in 0-to-60 mph (5.1 seconds) and quarter-mile times (13.7 seconds), with a 3.1-mph higher trap speed. Braking from 60 mph was nearly identical at 110 feet, and lateral acceleration was 0.84g for the BMW and 0.83g for the Infiniti. However, the Infiniti decisively lost in fuel economy, averaging 18.4 mpg on the 400-mile journey, trailing the BMW by 3.3 mpg.

Considering the micro performance margins, the significant $8,000 price difference, and the concerning oil-temperature issues in the BMW, the 2008 Infiniti G37 coupe emerged with a narrow but decisive victory, solidifying its position as a potent and value-driven contender in the sports coupe segment.