Well, it took me a while to cast my vote. I was torn between the BMW and the Audi. Both cars look sooooo amazing. Also, both look so much better in real life than in photos. I am going to be getting the BMW 335i within the next couple of months… (so I am a little bias toward those)… however, I frequently visit my local Audi dealership to see all of their new toys. (R8 in person= Georgeous <—- sidenote).

So when it is all said and done… i ended up casting my vote for the Audi… I do believe that the interior is stunning… and the exterior styling is breath taking. The first time you see it live you are Ou-ing and Ah-ing…. everything about it comands your attention.

BMW – I think that the Bimmer has the best balance of sport and elegant. And as previously mentioned… the audi is quite a bit more. just imagine if you spent a little on wheels, window tint, maybe the “M” spoiler, tint the tails… and a few other things.

The G37 looks thrown together… compared to the others. I’ll stop with that.

Jim,

Yeah, I will be getting an 06 335i sooooon. The reason I’m not getting the Audi is because of the difference in price. And I have always been a big fan of Bimmer’s. Also, as previously mentioned… it was a tough call. I still think that the Bimmer offers the best of both worlds “Sport and Elegent”.

Bascom

To ImUrDaddy:
Very interesting post. I think you are the first to be able to provide a head-to-head, relatively long-term, comparison of the 335i and the G37. It’s good to know how impressed you are with the G37. But, I don’t think you’ll sway too many away from the 335. In fact, your post validated two very important reason to get the 335. 1. the low end torque…as an everyday driver of the 335, that’s what I enjoy the most about it…getting pinned to the seat without turning 6 grand. And 2, as far as stiffness, the beauty of the 335 is, while it’s plenty stiff compared to most cars, it does a great job smoothing out the bumps. (You didn’t mention how the G37 does on bumps.) And finally, is anyone really saying the 335 is sexier than the S5? Well, on this blog, 52% (to 39%) say yes. Enough said. Peace.

Great posts by everyone but I do have to agree with Imurdaddy on his comment. He put it perfectly by describing the all around look and performance. In my opinion as a g37s owner it it a great performing car. Yes the Bimmer is about .2 seconds quicker but don’t forget it has a twin turbo. Put the turbo on a G and the 335 won’t stand a chance. If I was to choose between all three I would definitely choose the Audi, great looking car inside and out and high performance, the only downfall would be the price.

haven’t not had the opportunity to drive anything but the 335i and a regular a5, i cannot comment on the driving dynamics of each car. that being said, the s5 is the one of the most most beautiful/sexiest/meanest cars around and as such is the best-looking car in this montage.

Let’s make things clear;

Audi S5 PRO’s: it’s the most elegant, beautiful yet sport design. Best interior quality, design and material. I’m not saying because i’m a fan of Audi’s but because it is.
Regarding Performance, several test, side to side showed that the S5 it’s much faster then the 335i, 0-60 4.8 and 1/4 mile in 13.3
Audi S5 CON’s: The only thing that doesn’t fit is the AWD. The AWD makes the car heavier, more unbalanced, increases the engine’s consumption and due to higher friction, make’s the car slower for higher speeds then it could be. Even though, my choice is sure the audi S5. The PRO’s are heavier the the CON’s.

BMW 335i PRO’s: Lighter car, RWD and bi-turbo (Bi-turbo engines increase torque ,power per liter and has a better mileage perHP)

BMW 335i CON’s: Exterior design not as elegant or beautiful, but only sport. Terrible interior design and material quality is far from good.

Infinity G37: I just think that this car it’s not good enough to be compared to both Audi and BMW.

People don’t say BMW is better because of BMW’s past accomplishments, they say it’s better because it is better…in the past and still. Comparisons in various car magazines continue to favor the BMWs. From a cost standpoint, we really should be comparing the A5 (not S5) to the 335i. If we did, there would be no contest…the 335i is the better performer. Also, BMW continues to offer a 4 year 48,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. Audi went to the “limited warranty” last year…and I know why. My A4 always had problems. The AC needing fixing 4 times, power windows failed, rear defroster broke, lights constantly burnt out, and on and on. I’ve had my 335i for 16 months and NO problems. And as far a styling, until Audi gets rid of that ugly snout, it will never be “elegant”.

Having just sold my 02 E46 M3, I’ve been looking for a replacement and have been eyeing the exact 3 cars. Having gone on numerous test drives, I can say, the S5, although, hands down the best looking felt the heaviest and turn-in wasn’t as crisp as the 335i. Acceleration was the best on the 335i because of the excellent engine and turn-in inspired confidence. The G37, was, as expected the stiffest of the 3 but also inspired confidence. As any M3 driver can exclaim, 8000rpm is a joy to hit and the G37 was a blast to take up to the upper rpms. Having said all that, I’m looking at getting the 335i, for just being all around. Also, for those who said the G37 lacks heritage, I’m sure you’ve all heard of the Nissan Skyline.

“Nisei2ndGen” – The Audi S5 and G37 both stop the fun at 7500 RPM but the S5 has the most torque and power out of the three. I took all three cars on identical routes for 45 min drives and the Infiniti was most comfortable to me. The combination of the seats and ride were impressive, and Inifiniti did a great job here. While quality of materials wasn’t quite as nice as the others, I felt it was a well-designed car and liked it. All three cars are quick with the Audi having the advantage. AWD is tricky but if launched correctly (easier to bog than RWD) but will yield the quickest times with a good driver, especially with the 325ft/lbs torque. It’s the quickest one of the three but its aftermarket tuning is not even close to the 335s. A simple chip for less than $1500 gets the 335 close to 400bhp, where a supercharger (properly designed) for the S5 is $20K from MTM Germany. The turbo kits for the G37 are less expensive also. I think the 335 has the best value, a great platform and the best of the three for aftermarket tuning potential.

I didn’t plan to mod my next car, so after coming from the E46, the S5 was perfect. I wanted the quickest car, the best brakes, and beautiful design with every feature that I could get my hands on. The back up camera, and Bang&Olufsen sound were some of the features that are also pretty cool. Problem with the S5 vs the others is that it’s near impossible to find one. Unless you get lucky, you have to order one from the dealer and wait 3 months for it to be built to your spec and there are no discounts. With the G37, you can walk up on any lot and have one today, same with the 335. The 335 also has some great discounts right now since it has been out the longest. In the end, there is a lot to weigh but no wrong choices. Pick your preferences and pick a car.

Peace

@Jim
I don’t like to purchase Year 1 cars so I am holding off on the M3 for now. Maybe in 2 years or so

@Jeff Fields
Thanks for the response and your in-depth view. I have a question though. Did you test drive the G37 S? Or the regular G37. The reason why I posted stiffest was because over undulations, the car tended to settle a lot harsher than the 335i or the S5 for that matter. All 3 test drives were on the same street as the dealers are located within blocks of each other.

I find ALL your comments very interesting and true.

Perception is in the eye of the beholder right? All of you express your appreciation, or lack of, according to your personal experiences, tastes and expectations. All three models offer different advantages and performances according to whom the model wants to charm. They are all great looking and performing cars. Anyone driving ANY of these beauties should consider themselve’s lucky to be enjoying such high style and performance.

As far as I am concerned, I drove a 2004 G35 Coupe for four years and LOVED it. I recently replaced it for a G37S and my mind was blown. This new model is SO different on ALL levels, that comparisons are hard for me to make. I believe the 2008 G37 marks the arrival at “maturity” of the Infinity Coupe model. It’s comfort, performance, technology and overall attention to detail is NOTHING like the previous models.

I am NOT a professional race car driver, commentator or specialist, but I am VERY satisfied with my new ride. Technical trim details and performance differences will not make me chose an Audi or BMW over an Infinity because I simply cannot find the overall price/quality/value “rapport” as fulfilling as what I find in the G37S.

Enjoy your cars! If we were all professionally competing on race tracks, we could engage in such commentary and competition, but, unfortunately, most of us drive our cars on public streets and highways that impose all kinds of limitations.

On a race track, cars are differenciated by their optimal specs.
On an “everyday drive”, whether it be on a city street or a highway, the REAL advantage and enjoyment comes from the driver’s skills. It’s HOW you drive and not only WHAT you drive.

Just look at all the “old grey and white haired clowns” that drive their Ferrari and other “super cars” in the “slow” lane, because all they can REALLY do is afford them, not drive them for their TRUE worth and purpose. Is that not a bloody shame?! “Sure, go ahead, drive your bank accounts and equity, show them off!

WE want to drive our CARS!”

@ Jason – Finishing the 6th grade should be required before using the Internet…

plz plz i wanna ask all da people to stop commentin on cars before testin it plz & sry for disturin…….

The Audi is arguably more beautiful than the 335i, overall however
the 335i is the better car mechanically. I chose the 335i sedan over the S5 for similar reasons why I chose it over a 335i coupe. Attempting to explain or quantify one’s preferences is difficult to say the least. It took me years to fully understand my own wants. It’s a matter of searching one’s own changing soul earnestly and honestly. At one point you gotta make a decision. I can tell you that mine was based upon the following factors: fun, beauty, precision, utility, power, and elegance. I’m confident I’ve made the right choice for me. I hope the same for others.

Joseph
08 335i sedan, manual, sports package, bmw assist, black on black with aluminum interior trim :)

I would rate the bmw, audi and then the infiniti. the bmw has a very strong characal lighting which shines it very strong in the night. and the xenon headlights have a very strong eye around it. my mom didn’t want a bmw, she wanted a volkswagen because of the gas but when she saw the characoal lighting and the xenon headlights. she said that we are going go get a bmw, just because of the lights. THERE IS ALSO A CAR, THE BMW 850, HAS A TWIN-TURBO, GOES UP TO 155 TOP SPEED BUT 180 ON THE SPEEDOMETER, AND A 0-60 IN 5.3. MAYBE THE 0-60- IS SLOW BUT 70+ IT’S SO GOOD. ONE TIME MY UNCLED RACED IN IT IN L.A. IN 2003 WITH A 2003 VIPER, THE VIPER CAME UP TO HIS 850, AND JUST HIT THE GAS NEAR ITY, WANTING TO RACE IT WENT ON BACK AND FORTH. AND AT THE END THE 850 BEAT THE VIPER. bECAUS EHHE HAD TO EXIT. SO THE VIPER EXITED TOO, AND THE VIPER RIDER ASKED MY UNCLE WHAT KIND OF CAR IS THAT. AND HE SAID IT’S AN 850. i think you guys should hook it up with like a mercedes. please do reply me back by my email…

modather_ludin@yahoo.com

I just leased the g37 and am very impressed with its performance. With no money down I’m paying 440 per month which is less than a base 328i with fake leather. I had the bmw z4 si and it was a really fun car but a very stiff ride on bumby roads.

To be fare I really liked the way the A5 drove but the lease was $200 more!

My real choices were the base 328i with nothing, the base A4 or the G37.

The base G comes with many more options than the base A4 or 328i.

My Rank

1) A5
2)G37, 335I
3)A4
4)328i

Love the G37 and is with out a doubt the best value!

Jim your 335i is a lemon, check this test result from edmunds Road TestsComparison Test: 2007 BMW 335i vs. 2008 Infiniti G37
All the Necessary Details
Our test-driving loops on back roads also revealed the 2007 BMW 335i to be faster in real-world driving, even though its softer suspension tune compromised our slalom testing, where the BMW recorded 69.5 mph. Feedback is what makes the difference. Both coupes talk to their drivers, but the 335i speaks in great detail.

We’re so locked into the car’s progress down the road through the compliant chassis and textured steering, we push on without reservation. Although the BMW’s steering ratio of 16.0:1 suggests otherwise, the 3 Series reacts to its steering more quickly than the G37.

Once you get deep into the BMW’s middle pedal, it’s easy to get the full measure of the brakes. At the track, our 3,542-pound 335i test car came to a halt in 109 feet and never deviated more than a foot over our series of stops.

The BMW held only a surprisingly slim advantage in ride comfort over the Infiniti, perhaps because of the 335i’s run-flat tires.

The Dyno Beckons
Although our 3,715-pound Infiniti G37 test car weighed in almost 200 pounds heavier than our 3,542-pound BMW 335i coupe, we puzzled over the wide difference in their respective acceleration performance and the G’s relative lack of high-rpm vigor. The Infiniti is supposed to have a 30-hp advantage, but it wasn’t adding up.

This led us back to the chassis dynamometer at MD Automotive in Westminster, California, the same facility we used to test an overachieving, automatic-equipped 335i.

As the dyno reveals, our 335i test car produces 280 hp 5,800 rpm as measured at the rear wheels, while the G37 comes up with 281 hp at 7,200 rpm. As close as these numbers look, the 335i holds a huge advantage over the G in power under the curve from idle to 6,350 rpm. And if you look at torque, the difference is even uglier: 279 lb-ft at 3,370 rpm for the BMW versus 229 at 4,500 rpm for the Infiniti.

The thing to keep in mind is that the G37′s dyno numbers are actually right on target. They’re 15 percent lower than the published specifications (which don’t take drivetrain losses into account) and that’s what you can expect from most production cars. The 335i’s numbers were only 7 percent down from the specs, which suggest to us that BMW has slightly underrated it.

the 335i is a beast enough said

I am a 540i M-sport owner who is switching to a G37x. I considered the 550i but it looks god-awful – it has a front-end and a rear-end only a mother could love. I then happened to test drive the G37 and realized that the car handles better than 540/550 and the 335 imo, has more interior and cargo room than my series and looks so much nicer than current 5 series (and a little nicer looking than the 335 which is good looking but a little boring). I converted to the G37 overnight!

The 335 is way to tight inside if you are taller than 6 feet. I would never buy a 3-series.

I haven’t driven the S5 but it looks stylish, albeit a little overdone. I would only pick an S5 if looks were the *only* criteria.

Alex,

The styling is great, but also a little overdone with the jewelry (is that what its called?). My wife doesn’t like it. Moreover, its a coupe and I am looking for a sedan which can seat 4 comfortably. Among the sedans, neither the 335i or the S4 sedan does this very well.

The v-8s torque can be gratifying(my 540 has the same torque as the S5) but in reality, it doesn’t lead to much performance difference for the S5 over the G37 – 0.1-0.2 seconds does not matter in the real world. Don’t get me wrong, the S5 looks like a wonderful car, just not one that meets my needs at this time.

335i Coupe is what a sport coupe should be. Looks sleek , great handling and great, great, great engine.
S5 looks good but also gives a feeling of big and heavy.
No comment (yet) for the Lexus.
In fact my wife has a 335 xi Coupe – which I enjoy so much that I am trading in my 645i for an Alpina B3 Biturbo convertable…now that one beats both the S5 and the new M3……I drove all of them !

I was just invited by Audi to drive the new S4 with V6 compressor- 333 BHP 470 nm. The car felt as fast as my wife’s 335iX and is faster on the paper. But most of all, the S4′s handling is right up there with the 335 ! No more of the typical Audi understeer when pushed hard in the bend. With the exception of fuel consumption (335 is still the king in this class), I must say I am impressed.
I have just read that the new Audi S5 covertable will be using the same V6 compressor engine – certainly this would be an attractive car.
So now comes the no-brainer question: Why does the S5 Coupe have V8 and S5 Covertable have V6 compressor?
Case closed for me. My wife made the right decision to have chosen the 335iX instead of the S5 Coupe.
And I am really looking forward to my BMW Alpina B3 Biturbo !

@Resistant:

I’m anxiously waiting to see and test drive the new S4. Thus far, magazine reviews have been timid on the crucial quesitons.. How does it compare to the 335i and M3 in terms of performance, fun, beauty, and value???

I own an 08 335i sedan, manual, with sports package. It’s a beautiful driving machine! Besides it’s quirky manual engagement, less than inspirational sound note, and some what bland interior..the car is damned well near perferct.

The new S4 looks as though it will easilly win the asthetic competition..but what about the more import stuff???? How does it feel? Will one feel connected? Is it fun? Does it feel heavy? Linear low end torque, to me, is a very important aspect of a car’s character. The new S4, with it’s supercharger may have an edge over the 335′s twin turbos.

Please, elaborate a bit more on your impressions…and if you can.. give an honest comparison to the 335i (as well as xi).

I’d appreciate it.

Joseph
San Diego

Solrac_x81 “One of the things that i think that takes credit from audi is that they are kind of copying bmw”

Wow, I couldn’t disagree more. Audi had twin turbo V6 engines back in the B5 S4 which is over a decade ago. They have been known for having turbocharged powerplants for quite sometime. Audi increased the displacement of the S4 by dropping the V8 4.2 while the competition from BMW and Mercedes still had 6 cylinders in the M3 and C Class. Finally, Audi introduced the RS4 with a V8 and 420bhp. Two years later, BMW followed with the E92 and you guessed it, 420bhp and a V8. The thing to recognize here s that both BMW and Audi are built in Bavaria (BMW in Munich and Audi in Ingolstadt) and they are located geographically much closer than Porsche or Mercedes, distance-wise. They are both my favorite car companies and I applaud them both for making better and better cars each year. While my favorite car is the R8 5.2 V10 GT3 that was just announced, I bet BMW will have something to admire in the same class very soon.

I have never looked at Audi as a car of choice. But lately Audi is really biginning to apeal to me. The R8 is clearly the car to have, neither BMW or Mercedes-benz have a car which can really compete with it in terms of WOW factor. It just doesnt look the price of an M6 or an Sl500. The new S5 is another class winner. I love its looks, performance and interiour. Audi have really stepped up their game but my main cristisism would be their design “method” looks the same on all the cars, (excluding the R8). Most Audis have squarish front lights and simuler back lights with boxy shapes. The A8 looks like a big A4 for someone who doesnt know cars and sees it driving past. I think they need bolder designs and more refined interiours.-(feels to clutered and like your in a very nice space ship) never the less i would by an S5 over a 335i, but i would by an M3 over both :)

The BMW 335i will mostly stay in the service shop all week several times. The Audi will let you enjoy the weekend. Too many fuel pump failures in the 335i; get the Audi

Great comparison (I think the department of transport better sort out the ugly numberplate problem).

Audi has the looks – but BMW has the appeal. Furthermore, BMW beat the Audi S5 on the track.
So winners as follws:

BMW = nmbr 1
Audi S5 = nmbr 2
Infiniti = nmbr 3

The G37 is the best deal and value. I am a former BMW 330i owner and loved it but as always, BMWs and Audis (esp. Mercs!) are way, way overpriced, particularly in Korea, where I live. Also, Chris Bengal totally messed up the butt-ugly, boring designs of every 3 series after the E46 (incl. the Z, 5, & 7, although the ’09 new 7s look a lot better).

So far, I love my 2009 G37 S coupe (all 333 horses!) – the Japanese, I must admit, have caught up and the Germans are in for some serious competition – look at the Nissan GT-R, for instance, a superior Porsche Turbo contender for a portion of the price! In this day age, with the US and the world in major financial meltdown, VALUE FOR MONEY is all that really matters! Wouldn’t you agree?

@Bill:

wow grow up.

While I own an Audi, if I had the 335i and S5 in front of me with the pick of either car to be mine, it would take me an exorbitant amount of time deciding. It seems we have come to the conclusion that either car is a taste of personal preference. Since I am a huge gear head, I am attracted to enthusiast type engines (FI), the 335i with the twin turbos would be the car for me to tinker on. Then I look over to the S5 with the presence it carries and my decision would be altered again. Two great autos.

@Joseph: Joseph, which 06 330i are you comparing your 335i to, an E90 sedan or the E46 coupe?

@Joseph: I agree with most of your points and believe an Infiniti does not YET beat a BMW in terms of performance, feel, and handling. However, since the demise of the E46, all 3-series successors have been at best, “controversial” in design and styling. The interior is even worse with the “centralised” cluster of control panels which remind us of American car designs of the past. BMW has lost that warm, cozy, “skewed to the driver” layout and as opted for a sterile, hospital-like, “cold,” industrialised look. The exterior of the current M3 looks much, much better but still lacks the beauty and prowl-like nature/look of the E46 M3.

Admittedly, the G37 is not on my top design list but it is certainly more aggressive in appearance and design.

A former BMW owner
Seoul, Korea

If you want pure value for your money… buy a Hyundai Genesis coupe… something is a bit awry with its setup though… over 300 horses and can’t break 60 mph under 6 secs.

Again, at 40 grand the 135i provides the best performance for the price…. 0-60 in 4.7 with skidpad of 0.94 g according to motor trend! BMW quotes 0-60 in 5.1 s though… hmmm

Nissan never an eyecatching car.
BMW 335i styling is matured.
Audi? hmmm… fresh styling, looks like very modern and very space-technology.

Just to let know, i have a S5, and i have 2 other friend one with 335i coupe and another with the V8 M3. 0-100, side to side, everybody was toghether, but after this speed, the m3 put a little in front of the S5, that put a little in front of the 335i. I’ve tested them and that it. Anyways, the s5 is much more luxurious and pretty.

3 SERIES IS FOR PEOPLE THAT ARE HIGH CLASS WITH LOW INCOME. I WONDER HOW 3 SERIES OWNER FEEL WHEN NEXT TO A HIGHER SERIES BMW?

I’M A YOUNG MEN WHO DRIVE A SEXY G37S AND ITS THE HIGHEST CLASS IN INFINTY COUPE AND ALSO VERY RARE IN THE STREETS. I FEEL LOW CLASS WITH HIGH INCOME.

WHY PAY SO MUCH FOR A DEAD HORSE. ITS A HEADACHE DEALING WITH A BUNCH OF CROOKS IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY. AFTERALL, I BELIVE THAT CONSUMERS BUY NEW VEHICLES WITH TWIN TURBO AND DESRVES TO PUT MILES IN THE CAR NOT PARK IT AND PUT TIME ON FIXING IT.

ITS FUNNY HOW PEOPLE FALL FOR THE SAME GIMICS TO HEAR COMPLIMENTS AND AFRAID TO TRY OTHER MATERIAL EARN COMPLIMENTS.

i have a bmw 1351 and an audi s5 and i think my audi is better rthan my bmw

My 08 335i (manual with sports package) turned out to be a lemon due to repeated High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures. BMW bought back my 335i (I got a full refund). Besides the hassles of repeated repairs, I think the car is great! I look forward to the next generation 3 series/M3 which are supposed to be significantly lighter. I think the S5 is way too heavy, and the G37S is not as tight as the 335. The best options right now are to either lease a new 335i or buy a used E90/2 M3. I would not recommend buying a 335. The new S4 has some good reviews but I’d have to test drive it back to back with a 335i to justify its premium over a 335i. I wonder how the new RS4 will turn out but history tells us it will be a powerful pig.

Joseph
San Diego

Not sure about the G37, but the stock Nissan 370Z coupe consistently beats 335s, 135s, and Audi Ss on any track; this is a fact… The VQ37 is also the most versatile tuner engine

The Nissan/Datsun/Prince Motors also has plenty of racing heritage as you can read about in history. Just like the germans, Japanese also have plenty of engineering clout and unmatched attention to detail.

The best styling goes to the G37. It just has the best lines of this group. The S5 is really nice too, but I can’t get past that ugly grille area that has become an Audi staple. It ruins the design, although it is less offensive on a black car because it blends in better. Overall I like the BMW, but it looks stodgy next to the other two cars, almost like a pug standing next to two greyhounds… and the taillights on the BMW look like they belong on a Honda Accord. So here’s my order: 1- G37 2-S5 3-335i

Let me premise by saying, I’ve owned BMW for the past 14yrs. I currently own a 328 totally kitted out pulling 300hp and a X5, I’ve already lined up my next purchase which is a 2007 335I. That said, Audi currently makes the best looking cars and as far as I’m concerned Infiniti doesn’t factor into it.

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