When it comes to Japanese rear-wheel drive sports cars, two models always take center stage: Nissan Skyline And Infiniti G35. These cars, despite different brands, are closely related to each other - and not only thanks to the platform FM (Front Midship), but also thanks to the general spirit of engineering Nissan. Skyline, especially in the back R35, became a symbol of a technological supercar, and G35 (known in Japan as Nissan Stagea or Skyline V35/V36) - the perfect balance between luxury and sporty character.

But what do these machines actually have in common, and what are their key differences? Why Skyline GT-R R35 still remains the dream of many car enthusiasts, and Infiniti G35 - a favorite of drifters and tuners? In this article we will look at:

  • 🔧 Specifications and engines: VR38DETT vs VQ35DE/VQ35HR
  • 💰 Cost of ownership - what is cheaper to maintain and what will cost a pretty penny?
  • 🏁 Drift vs Racing: why G35 reigns on the track, and Skyline R35 - on a straight line
  • 🔧 Tuning potential: which modifications are really justified and which are a waste of money

1. Model history: how Skyline became Infiniti, and Infiniti became a cult car

Nissan Skyline - this is not just a model, but an entire era that began back in 1957. However, the versions brought real fame to the brand GT-R, especially R32, R33 And R34who became legends thanks to their participation in the championship JGTC (now Super GT) and the movie "Fast and Furious". But in 2007 Nissan presented R35 - no longer as part of the line Skyline, but as a separate model GT-R, which has lost the prefix "Skyline" in its name (although in Japan it is still called Skyline GT-R).

Infiniti G35, in turn, debuted in 2002 as a luxury version Nissan Skyline V35 for the American market. Under the hood he had the same atmospheric VQ35DE, as in Skyline 350GT, but with a modified suspension and a more luxurious interior. Released in 2006 G35 V36 (aka Skyline V36), which received an updated engine VQ35HR with the system VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) and increased to 306 hp power.

⚠️ Attention: In Japan Infiniti G35 sold as Nissan Skyline (V35/V36), and in the USA - as Infiniti G35/G37. It's the same platform, but with different suspension and electronics setups. When buying a used car, pay attention to the market for which it was intended - Japanese versions often have sharper settings.

Interesting fact: Skyline R35 And G35 V36 share not only the platform, but also some body parts. For example, headlights G35 Coupe externally similar to Skyline Coupe, but their optical units are different - they have Infiniti often have projection lenses, and Nissan - reflex.

📊Which model do you consider more iconic?
  • Nissan Skyline R35
  • Infiniti G35 (V35/V36)
  • Nissan Skyline R34
  • Infiniti Q50 (V37)
  • Other

2. Engines: VR38DETT vs VQ35DE/VQ35HR - who is stronger?

Main difference Skyline R35 from G35 — these are the hearts of these machines. Under the hood GT-R hiding VR38DETT — 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 with aluminum block, developing 480–570 hp (depending on the year and firmware). This motor is famous for its “bomb resistance” - with proper maintenance it can easily withstand 800+ hp after tuning.

Infiniti G35, on the contrary, was equipped with atmospheric VQ35DE (280–306 hp) and VQ35HR (306–330 hp). These engines cannot boast the same power as R35, but then they:

  • 🔄 More reliable in everyday use — there are no turbines that can fail
  • 💨 Easier to tune for drifting (aspirated engines are better controlled at high speeds)
  • 💰 Cheaper to repair - spare parts for VQ common and not as expensive as for VR38
Parameter Nissan GT-R R35 (VR38DETT) Infiniti G35 V35 (VQ35DE) Infiniti G35 V36 (VQ35HR)
Volume 3.8 l 3.5 l 3.5 l
Power (drain) 480–570 hp 280–306 hp 306–330 hp
Turbines Dual IHI No No
Resource before overhaul 250–300 thousand km (with careful operation) 300–400 thousand km 350+ thousand km
Tuning cost up to 500 hp. ~$15 000–$25 000 ~$10,000–$15,000 (with compressor) ~$8,000–$12,000 (with compressor)

Critical difference: VR38DETT requires mandatory oil changes every 5,000 km and monitoring of turbines, while VQ35 can “forgive” runs up to 10,000 km on high-quality synthetic oil.

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If you plan to tune G35, pay attention to models with VQ35HR - they have a more durable cylinder block and better “responsiveness” at high speeds.

3. Transmission and drive: why the G35 is loved by drifters and the Skyline R35 by drag racers

Both cars are built on the platform FM (Front Midship), where the engine is moved back for better weight distribution. However, their approach to transmission is fundamentally different:

Nissan GT-R R35 equipped with all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-terrain with Electronic Torque Split) and 6-speed robotic gearbox GR6 with double clutch. This system distributes torque between axles in a ratio of 0:100 to 50:50what does R35 incredibly stable at the start and in corners. However:

  • ⚠️ Box GR6 afraid of overheating - if you drive aggressively, the oil in it needs to be changed every 30,000 km.
  • ⚠️ ATTESA difficult to repair - replacing the coupling will cost $3 000–$5 000.

Infiniti G35, on the contrary, offers classic rear wheel drive with manual or automatic transmission. This is what makes it an ideal candidate for drifting:

  • 🔥 Mechanical (FS6R31A) withstands up to 500 hp without modifications.
  • 🔄 Automatic (RE5R05A) weaker, but it can be strengthened by replacing the clutches and oil pump.
  • 🏁 Torsen differential (on versions with the Sport package) allows for better drift control.
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If you need a drag car for straight-line racing, take it Skyline R35. If you want to drift or participate in track days - Infiniti G35 with mechanics will be the best choice.

4. Suspension and handling: what is better for the track and what is better for the city

Suspension Skyline R35 tuned for maximum stability at high speeds. Used here:

  • 🔧 Multi-link front and rear with adaptive shock absorbers (on Premium versions).
  • 📉 Electronic damping control system (Ride Control), which adapts to road conditions.

However, in everyday driving this suspension may seem too stiff, especially on Russian roads. In addition, replacing the racks will cost $1 500–$2 000 per set.

Infiniti G35 In this regard, it is more universal:

  • 🚗 Standard suspension softer than R35, but at the same time holds the road well.
  • 🔧 On Sport version Stiffer springs and stabilizers were installed, as well as 19-inch wheels.
  • 💰 Spare parts are cheaper - racks can be found behind $200–$400 per piece.

For the track G35 often modified:

  • 🔧 Installation coilovers (popular Tein, KW).
  • 🔄 By replacement bushings and silent blocks to polyurethane.
  • 🏁 By strengthening front and rear subframes for better rigidity.
What are the best coilovers for the G35?

Often chosen for drifting BC Racing BR Type or Stance XR1 — they allow you to fine-tune the ground clearance and stiffness. Better suited for the track Ohlin’s R&T or MCS 2-Way, but they are much more expensive (from $3,000 per set).

5. Cost of Ownership: Is it cheaper to maintain a Skyline or an Infiniti?

Here Infiniti G35 definitely wins. Here are the main expense items:

Expense item Nissan GT-R R35 Infiniti G35 (V35/V36)
Insurance (CASCO, Russia) ~150,000–250,000 ₽/year ~80,000–120,000 ₽/year
Maintenance (oil, filters, pads) ~50 000–80 000 ₽ ~20 000–40 000 ₽
Turbine repair (in case of failure) ~300 000–500 000 ₽ No turbines
Clutch replacement ~100,000–150,000 ₽ (robot) ~30,000–60,000 ₽ (mechanics)

The main “sores” Skyline R35:

  • 🔥 Transmission overheating — for aggressive driving, an additional radiator for the gearbox is required.
  • 💸 Expensive tires - recommended size 255/40 R20 will cost ~100 000 ₽ per set.
  • 🔧 Electronics - problems with ABS sensors and system VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control).

Weaknesses Infiniti G35:

  • 🔥 Oil pump on VQ35DE (until 2006) - may fail on runs over 150,000 km.
  • 💧 Seal leaks — especially the rear crankshaft oil seal.
  • 🔊 Knocks in the suspension - Worn front control arm bushings are often to blame.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase G35 with mileage, be sure to check the condition timing chains - on VQ35HR it can stretch to 200,000 km, and replacing it will cost $1 500–$2 000.

6. Tuning: what can be done with the G35 and R35 without losing reliability

Both cars have huge potential for modifications, but the approaches to tuning are radically different.

For Nissan GT-R R35 popular modifications:

  • 🔥 ECU firmware (For example, Cobb Accessport or EcuTek) - adds 50–100 hp without mechanical modifications.
  • 💨 Replacing turbines on Greddy or HKS - allows you to squeeze 700–900 hp
  • 🔧 Transmission reinforcement - replacing the clutch with Spec Stage 3+ and installation of an additional gearbox radiator.

For Infiniti G35 relevant:

  • 🔥 Compressor installation (Vortech or Stillen) - adds 100–150 hp
  • 🔄 Inlet/outlet - cold intake Ingen + forward flow Invidia or Greddy.
  • 🏁 Limited slip differential (For example, Nismo or Cusco) for drifting.

Check the compression in the cylinders|Change the oil and filters|Install a quality oil pump (for VQ35DE)|Check the condition of the timing chain|Update the ECU firmware (if you plan to boost)-->

It is important to understand that Skyline R35 after serious tuning it requires constant attention - for example, after 600+ hp You will have to change the fuel injectors and pump, as well as strengthen the chassis. G35 in this regard, it is more forgiving - even with a compressor it remains reliable with proper maintenance.

7. Which car should I choose in 2026?

Choice between Skyline R35 And Infiniti G35 depends on your goals:

Take it Nissan GT-R R35, if:

  • 🏁 Do you need supercar for reasonable money (used price R35 starts from 5–7 million ₽).
  • 🔥 You love drag racing and high speeds.
  • 💻Is important to you advanced electronics (system ATTESA, adaptive suspension).

Take it Infiniti G35, if:

  • 🚗 Do you need reliable and relatively cheap sports sedan (price from 1–2 million ₽).
  • 🏁 Are you planning drift or drive on the track.
  • 🔧 Do you want tune your car without big investments.

If your budget is limited, but you want something close to... Skyline, pay attention to Nissan 370Z (same VQ37VHR) or Infiniti Q50 (with VR30DDTT). However, none of these models will provide the drive that they offer R35 And G35.

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Skyline R35 is an investment in a legend, and Infiniti G35 — a practical sports car for those who like to drive a car, and not just drive fast.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Skyline and G35

🔧 Is it possible to install the VR38DETT engine from the R35 in the Infiniti G35?

Theoretically, yes, but this is an extremely complex and expensive project. Problems:

  • 🔧 Needs a complete redo engine mounts And subframe.
  • 💻 Required custom ECU firmware for electronics compatibility G35.
  • 💰 The total cost of the swap may exceed $20 000–$30 000.

Much easier and cheaper to buy R35 or force VQ35HR compressor.

💰 How much does Skyline R35 maintenance cost per year?

When running 10,000–15,000 km/year and moderate driving:

  • 🔧 Maintenance (oil, filters) — ~50 000–80 000 ₽.
  • 🚗 Tires/wheels — ~100,000–150,000 ₽ (if you don’t save).
  • 💸 Unforeseen expenses (sensors, brake pads) - ~30,000–50,000 ₽.

Total: ~200,000–300,000 ₽/year.

🏁 Which G35 is better for drifting: V35 or V36?

Infiniti G35 V36 (2007–2008) is preferable for several reasons:

  • 🔧 Engine VQ35HR more powerful and reliable than VQ35DE.
  • 🚗 Suspension better tuned for sporty driving.
  • 💰 Spare parts cheaper and more accessible than for V35.

However V35 (2003-2006) can be found cheaper and is easier to repair.

🔥 Is it possible to drive Skyline R35 in winter?

Technically yes, but with caveats:

  • ❄️ Four-wheel drive helps in the snow, but low profile tires (40 and below) reduces this advantage to nothing.
  • 🔥 Turbo engine does not like cold starts - required preheater.
  • 💸 Fuel consumption in winter it grows to 20–25 l/100 km.

If the winter in your region is snowy, it is better to buy a separate “winter” car.

💡 What kind of oil should I use in VQ35HR?

Recommendations:

  • 🔧 Viscosity: 5W-40 or 0W-40 (synthetic).
  • 🏆 Brands: Motul 8100 X-Cess, Liqui Moly Leichtlauf, Idemitsu Zepro.
  • ⚠️ Replacement interval: every 7,000–10,000 km (despite official 15,000 km).