This is my first time posting here. I do not currently own a 350Z, but plan on buying one a few years after I graduate college. I should graduate in December of '07, if things go correctly, so it will be a few years before I can buy one, but I do have some questions.

I have heard alot of people here mention the Nismo cat back exhaust system. Is this worth it to buy? I have looked at Nismo's site and know that it is 9 lbs lighter than the stock and adds 6 HP, but is it worth the money?

Also, I was going to get the aerodynamics package when I order my Z. Would it be better to get the stock aerodynamics package, or to get the nose mask and spoiler from Nismo? I know getting the stock would be cheaper, but what would be the better choice? Also, what advantage does a spoiler have besides good looks? I'm sorry, but I simply dont know much about cars. I know what I like and dont like, but beyond that, I dont know much at all. I spent most of my childhood messing with computers instead of cars.

Thanks for all the help.

 

First off, if you don't graduate until '07, Nissan has plans to bring some pretty badass cars over here by then. There's talks of some hardcore Z and the Skyline is pretty much set for '07. I'd wait before I set my heart on a Z because they'll be doing some pretty cool stuff in the next few years. There are people on here who know a lot more about it and probably even have pics.

Second, the stock spoiler on the aero package looks pretty pitiful. If you want a spoiler to add style, by an aftermarket one or the Nismo piece.

I'll leave the black cat question to someone who knows more about it...

 

There should be plenty of used Z's for sale by the time you graduate. The Z should be getting a makeover around the time you graduate, so you might want to take a peek at those.

Getting a cat-back exhaust is debatable whether there is any gains. Chances are, you won't get a good return in HP to money spent. One thing you can expect is a change in exhaust tone.

Getting a Nismo body kit or factory kit is a personal preference. I'm more inclined to say that its easier to sell a used Z with a factory stock kit than with an aftermarket kit. However, the Nismo bodykits do look better than the factory kit, but that's subjective.

I'm a bit bias towards stock, since I prefer to keep my Z stock.

 

I have my Invidia exhaust because its super loud and looks cool. I doubt there is much, if any HP gains. Still undecided on body kits. I dont want something that looks like a bunch of plastic tacked onto the bottom of my car. Unfortunately, many of the most popular body kits look just like that IMO.

 

Any gains with an aftermarket exhaust on the Z are debatable? Since when? Most gain ~8hp, the true duals usually see a little higher. I agree there, but you don't with this car with any mod.

 

If you're looking at the Nismo exhaust....it should be mainly for the sound. It sounds like a meaner, more aggressive stock exhaust. So basically $1k for a deeper sound with a few extra ponies performance-wise.

I like just about everything that Nismo does. The stock aero package is OK but Nismo makes it look much meaner and I love that.

And to answer your question, spoilers can help control air drag (reducing fuel consumption, improving aerodynamics, etc.) and provide stability at higher speeds. Although some are just for looks.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I'm probably going to get the Nismo air mask and spoiler when I order the Z and put them on as soon as I get it. I'll probably wait 6-12 months for the exhaust though.

Thanks again for all your help. It's much appreciated, especially Maxim for telling me what the spoiler does beside look good.