Infiniti Q45 classic cars for sale
The Infiniti Q45, spanning model years 1989 to 2006, exemplifies rear-wheel-drive Japanese luxury, delivering a combination of advanced engineering, understated elegance, and comfort. Whether you value a five-seater saloon with classic engineering or appreciate sophisticated features from the heyday of the luxury sedan segment, the Q45 sets itself apart. Read more to discover its history and unique place among luxury vehicles.
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2000 | Infiniti Q45 "Anniversary Edition"
Infinity Q45 Anniversary edition
VAT is reclaimable
History of the Infiniti Q45
Unveiled as the flagship of Nissan’s luxury division, the Infiniti Q45 made its initial debut in 1989 as a challenge to established European and American premium saloons. The Q45 showcased advanced technology and a focus on performance, arriving with a rear-wheel-drive platform and a V8 engine, which positioned it as a direct contender to luxury sedans from Germany and the US. By targeting the upper-premium market, Infiniti sought to combine Japanese reliability with high-end appointments and impressive handling, carving out a distinct identity within the evolving luxury segment.
Model History
The Q45 launched with its first generation (1989–1996), featuring an innovative 4.5-litre V8, multi-link suspension, and a minimalist approach to luxury without wood trim, setting it apart from its rivals. The second generation (1997–2000) brought smoother styling, updated interior features, and refined ride quality. The third and final Y33 generation (2000–2006) shifted focus toward increased luxury and comfort, adopting further technological enhancements and a five-speed automatic. Throughout its production, the Q45 had no direct predecessor and concluded without a true successor, remaining a distinctive offering in Infiniti’s history.
Highlights of the Infiniti Q45
Distinctive rear-wheel drive and a robust multi-link suspension deliver both comfort and handling. The model’s technological features, especially in the later Y33 generation, include advanced electronics and comfort equipment. Special note: the five-speed automatic transmission and the car’s 0–100 km/h time of 7.0 seconds are notable achievements for a luxury saloon of this era.
Technical Data
Special Editions and Collectible Models
No specific limited or special edition Q45 models are documented in the available data. The model's consistent evolution and high level of standard equipment were the main draws for buyers across the generations.
Weak Spots and Common Issues
No detailed weak spots or recurring problems are documented for the Infiniti Q45 in the provided data. Owners and potential buyers should verify regular maintenance history, especially for complex electronics and the five-speed automatic gearbox, as these components can be costly to repair.
Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling
The Q45’s backbone is its refined V8, providing robust torque and smooth power delivery—one of the car’s defining characteristics. The five-speed automatic gearbox offers seamless shifts, while rear-wheel drive, combined with sophisticated suspension geometry, delivers both comfort and precise handling. The 0–100 km/h sprint of 7.0 seconds (2000 model) positions the Q45 ahead of many contemporaries in its luxury segment. The Y33 series is the sole listed Q45 generation in current supply and demand, reflecting its presence and desirability among enthusiasts and collectors of luxury saloons.
Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design
The Q45’s design language matured with each generation, moving from early avant-garde minimalism to refined luxury emphasis in the Y33 model. Interiors were defined by premium seating for five, generous use of high-quality materials, and a driver-focused cockpit. Later versions included significant comfort features, with a focus on reduced noise and increased passenger convenience. Exterior styling shifted to understated elegance, mirroring trends among luxury competitors, with aerodynamic contours and subtle chrome accents.
Other Noteworthy Features
Additional highlights include the car’s advanced climate control systems and comprehensive suite of electronic convenience features in later generations. Safety features are also in line with premium class expectations for the period.
Summary
Spanning three generations from 1989 through 2006, the Infiniti Q45 stands as a distinct offering in the world of Japanese luxury saloons. Its strong V8 power, focus on comfort, and commitment to forward-thinking design mark it out as something special within the segment. The Y33 generation, in particular, encapsulates the peak of Q45 development, making these examples the reference point for anyone considering an Infiniti Q45 as a classic choice.