BMW and Audi be afraid! Infiniti is getting serious about its convertible! A 500 hp G37 is on the way. Inspired by the Coupe version unveiled this year at New York Auto Show, the Convertible version will be launched in 2009.
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible
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The 2009 G37 Convertible will be inspired by the 2008 Coupe version; this means it will combine the same exhilarating performance, stunning styling and modern, sporty interior of the original Infiniti G Coupe.
Under the hood of the Convertible version we will see a 3.7 liter V6 engine with an output of 330 hp and a peak torque of 269 lbs-ft. The engine will be matted with a a choice of an upgraded electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, downshift rev matching, DS mode and ASC (Adaptive Shift Control) that allows for quicker shifts in sporty driving situations and available genuine magnesium paddle shifters; or a newly revised, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission.
The G37 Convertible will be build on the FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, which has been stiffened 36% from the previous generation, is lower in overall height and has a wider front and rear track width.
Also there are rumors that Infiniti is working on a more powerful version of the G37: an all-wheel drive, twin-turbocharged version that will have an output of 500 hp. This mean that the 2009 G37 will be even more powerful like a GT-R. So, it will reach at least a top speed of 185 mph and the 0 to 60 mph sprint will be made in less than 4 seconds.
Like the Coupe, the Convertible version will be offered in three different versions: standard, Journey and Sport. The most powerful, and of course the most expensive will be the the Sport version. It will feature 19" wheels, Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD), sport-tuned suspension, sport brakes, unique front fascia and side sills, sport-styled seats and steering wheel stitching.
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History
Nissan 300ZX Convertible
Nissan unveiled the 300ZX or the Fairlady Z in 1983. It stayed into production until 2000 and was build with two different: the Z31 and the Z32 (same used in the Z-series).
The Z31 chassis was designed after the previous Z-car, the Nissan 280ZX, but it was featuring a new, more aerodynamic body than the previous 280ZX.
It was powered by either a naturally-aspirated or a turbocharged V6 producing 160 hp and 200 hp respectively.
In 1986 Nissan added side skirts and replaced the fiberglass spoiler with a durable plastic one; the 300ZX was given a much sleeker look when the hood scoop was removed. A third brake-light was also added to the interior of the unit for safety.
The convertible version was available only in the Z32 series. It was unveiled in 1993 and lasted until the end of the 300ZX. It was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that produced 222 hp 6400 rpm and 198 pound-feet of torque 4800 rpm. Power was applied to the rear wheels through a standard five-speed transmission and limited-slip differential. A four-speed automatic was optional.
300ZX was also available in Turbo version. It was powered by a modified version of the V6 engine. Thanks to intercooling and a single turbo for each cylinder bank, it produced 300 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
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Competitors
BMW 3-Series Convertible
BMW unveiled the 3-Series Convertible in Spring of 2007. The model comes with a three-piece electronically-operated retractable hard-top – a first for BMW.Stowed or raised in approximately 22 seconds, the new roof has been introduced, not only for added security, but also for better visibility and a greater feeling of space and light for occupants. Because the roof features a larger rear glass windscreen and side windows, visibility has improved by 38 per cent compared to the outgoing 3 Series Convertible.
The new High-Precision Direct Injection system on the BMW 3 Series Convertible uses centrally-mounted piezo crystal injectors spraying atomised fuel vapour directly into the combustion chamber. Combined with Bi-VANOS variable valve technology the system delivers the most efficient burn of fuel for maximum power and parsimonious economy. The fruits of this technology are highlighted by the impressive performance figures posted by all of the petrol-powered 3 Series Convertibles.
The 325i Convertible with its all-new 218hp six-cylinder engine develops 270Nm of torque. The open-topped 325i covers the 62mph sprint in 7.6 seconds and can attain a top speed of 152mph. However, it is still capable of a combined consumption figure of 35.8mpg.
Representing the flagship of the range is the 335i Convertible with its twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine. Using an aluminium cylinder block rather than the magnesium alloy unit from the 325i Convertible, but with the added benefit of lag-free forced induction, the 335i posts a zero to 62mph time of 5.8 seconds. The 306hp engine, higher than the output of the E36 BMW M3, has been restricted to a 155mph top speed. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 28.5mpg. Peak torque of 400Nm from just 1,300rpm through to 5,000rpm gives the driver a real surge of effortless power, acceleration and flexibility.
Audi A4 Convertible
The A4 Convertible was unveiled at 2006 New York Auto Show. It features an enjoyable and sporty driving experience, superior and complex technology, classic yet exciting styling and a level of luxury that even satisfies the demands made in the luxury class.
The new Audi A4 Convertible is being launched with a choice of four engine versions, all of which are longitudinally installed. The two highly modern petrol engines with FSI petrol direct injection for the new A4 Convertible: the 188 kW (255 bhp) 3.2 V6 and the turbocharged two-litre four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI, which delivers 147 kW (200 bhp). These combine high performance with a spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator pedal and a peak-torque range at a high level. The 1.8 T which develops 120 kW (163 bhp) is also available.
Diesel enthusiasts can order the immensely powerful 3.0 TDI with common rail injection and piezo injectors. Other engines will be added at a later date.
This modern TDI engine, which made its debut a few months ago in the large A8 and A6 saloons, develops an output of 171 kW (233 bhp) in the A4 Convertible. This potent V6 makes a torque of 450 Nm available between 1,400 and 3,150 rpm.