With suspension tuning in mind, Mike was already ahead of the game in choosing the G35. The “FM” platform used in the V35-chassis Infiniti G35 was created with a simple concept: design a stiff platform and interior body first, and then make the body panels and exterior design fit around it. With a plethora of “FM” models including the FX, G-Series, M-Series, the new Infiniti EX35 and of course, the Nissan 350Z – extreme chassis rigidity has become the standard across Nissan’s lineup. Furthermore, by adding an Elite Race Car 6-point chromoly roll cage, the remainder of the chassis flex was eliminated, thus making it easier to feel differences in shock and sway bar settings when tuning. Make no mistake though, as tuning a competitive suspension setup is another process that is more easily said than done. Utilizing Sebring Raceway as one’s most accessible proving ground, however, greatly accelerates the process. Eventually Mike decided upon a set of TEIN Flex dampers and their complimentary EDFC to provide cockpit-adjustable ride quality and dampening adjustments over Sebring’s rigorous circuit. Mike then finished off the suspension tuning with a set of STILLEN control arms and sway bars, and is now content with the handling and control he has in the corners.
Since picking up the car in 2003, Mike De La Cruz recently purchased another G35; this one being three years younger but still of the Cou’pe variety (as Clarkson would put it). With the newfound freedom to work on his race car and toss reasonable streetability and comfort out the window, we can only expect even bigger and better things for Mike’s G. In a world where modified G35 Coupes are abundant, very few are built with a vision and tested on a world-class racing circuit. After seeing the G35 Coupe and talking to Mike about its history, it easily becomes fair to say: Sebring tested, Modified approved.
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SPECIFICATIONS AND DETAILS
2003 Infiniti G35 Coupe
ENGINE
Nissan VQ35DE(TT) V6
ENGINE MODIFICATIONS
SGP Racing built engine; bored and honed block, balanced crank, decked block & heads, 5-angle valve job; Carillo piston rods; ARP rod bolts; CP 8.5:1 forged pistons; JWT camshafts and HD valve springs; HKS head gaskets, Nissan OEM “RevUp” oil pump; twin Greddy TD05-18G turbochargers; RC Engineering 750cc fuel injectors; Aeromotive fuel pressure regulator; APS dual 3” exhaust; Fuel Safe fuel cell; custom 4” inlet FMIC, double-pass oil cooler, double-pass radiator, 3” stainless steel downpipes, solid engine mounts, and custom intake plenum
ENGINE MANAGEMENT
HKS F-CON V-Pro, HKS A/F Knock Amp, HKS EVC5 boost controller; SGP Spec Technosquare ECU
DRIVETRAIN MODIFICATIONS
OS Giken triple disc clutch; B&M shifter
SUSPENSION
TEIN Flex dampers with EDFC; Stillen sway bars and front upper control arms
WHEELS, TIRES, BRAKES
Tenzo Racing 19x8 front / 19x10 rear wheels, Goodyear Eagle F1 245/35R19 front / 275/35R19 rear tires; Brembo brake calipers; DBA 2-piece brake rotors; Hawk pads; SGP Racing brake lines
EXTERIOR
Stillen front bumper, Stillen fiberglass hood
INTERIOR
Elite Race Car 6-point chromoly roll cage; Sparco race seats; 6-point belts; Autometer gauges; fire suppression system
With suspension tuning in mind, Mike was already ahead of the game in choosing the G35. The “FM” platform used in the V35-chassis Infiniti G35 was created with a simple concept: design a stiff platform and interior body first, and then make the body panels and exterior design fit around it. With a plethora of “FM” models including the FX, G-Series, M-Series, the new Infiniti EX35 and of course, the Nissan 350Z – extreme chassis rigidity has become the standard across Nissan’s lineup. Furthermore, by adding an Elite Race Car 6-point chromoly roll cage, the remainder of the chassis flex was eliminated, thus making it easier to feel differences in shock and sway bar settings when tuning. Make no mistake though, as tuning a competitive suspension setup is another process that is more easily said than done. Utilizing Sebring Raceway as one’s most accessible proving ground, however, greatly accelerates the process. Eventually Mike decided upon a set of TEIN Flex dampers and their complimentary EDFC to provide cockpit-adjustable ride quality and dampening adjustments over Sebring’s rigorous circuit. Mike then finished off the suspension tuning with a set of STILLEN control arms and sway bars, and is now content with the handling and control he has in the corners.