i currently own a 02 steeda mustang. its my 4th one. im looking to get a 350z very soon. im sick of the tank feeling mustangs have, even with suspension. i see all these different models. track, enthusiast, touring, etc.... i want to know which one i want that has the most power(but i think they all are 287 horse under 2005 right?) and the best handeling and braking. which order do they go in? im looking to get a 2004 or 2005. any differences between them? thanks guys

 

I'm not an expert by any means, but about 2 months ago I stepped out of an '03 Mustang Mach 1 into an '05 Anniversary Edition 350Z and never looked back. The AE came with 300 hp (but slightly less torgue than the base motor) when mated to the 6spd, 18" wheels and Brembo brakes (I think the Brembo brakes were available on the Track models). I don't know if the bigger wheels were on other models or were just on the AE's. It also came with the extra cost "Ultra Yellow" paint, which was also available on other models as well. I think that most here will tell you that there is little seat-of-the-pants difference between the 287hp and the 300hp motors. '03's and some '04's were plagued with some tire feathering issues which was covered by Nissan with an extended warranty and replacement tires. I love the Brembo brakes and the slot car handling of the 350Z compared to those "tanks" we both know. I also love not having to stop so often for gas (bigger tank and better gas mileage than the Mach 1) even though the Z still requires premium grade fuel.

 

1. Track model is best
2. 35th AE model second
3. Touring
4. Performance
5. Enth.
6. Base
They are all the same speed but the braking on the Brembo's is a little better. Suspension on the Track models are the best but you pay for that while daily driving.
If you want the cheapest of all models but still have everything you need Enth. model is the best because it's the lightest (except base) but still has ALL the performance.
I test drove all of the models and went with Enth. because I don't need a leather, power seats(more weight), bose system(more weight), VDC(more weight) sucks when drag racing, etc...
I just wish I could have gotten the brembo's with my car...that's the only thing I wanted from the other models.

 

You’re question is very broad, and an answer would require a book. Performance and handling of all models is comparable. Each model has some unique amenities (traction control system, vehicle dynamic control, HID). Study the amenities, decide which you consider worthwhile, and make a buying decision. Happy shopping.

 

America sounds very confusing, do you serioulsy not get Brembo brakes on some models!!! UK gets only one model, with the option of a GT pack (leather, cruise, Bose stereo) and Rays Alloys. Plus the special addition 35th anniversary model.

 

It's a Japanese car, we had nothing to do with it.

 

well i want the brembo brakes and navagation, leather, vdc, traction control, 6 speed. do the 2003'4's have the front spoiler and 18 and 19 inch rim package? or is that new for 2006

 

That would be a Track with dealer installed leather. Or a Touring with aftermarket Brembos.

 

This is news to me. AFAIK suspension is same on all models and VDC doesnt not add any heavy parts, at the most some accelerometers and software upgrade.
Do you have any links where you got your info from?

 

We are the land of too many choices. You should see the milk section at the store, we have 20 kinds of milk to pick from.

 

I ignore the “get the such-and-such it’s the best” posts. The statement provides absolutely no worthwhile information for the OP. Many times these ambiguous and misinformed recommendations come from members who do NOT drive a 350Z. Disinformation and truisms are next to impossible to avoid.

 

go with the '05. too many problems carried over from 2003 into the 2004 models, including tire feathering.

 

Avoid the 2003 as they have the most problems. The 300hp motor comes with any manual 2006 Z. The 2005 track, grand touring, and 35th anniversary edition has it as well. The 18" + 19" setup only comes with the 2006 track model. If I were you I would get a 2005 model as the 2006 Zs are about 150lbs heavier than previous years. Personally, the few changes made to its appearance aren't worth it. You can also get the 2005 new for cheaper than usual if you shop soon. If you want both brembos and leather from factory, you have to get a 35th anniversary edition or a grand touring model.

 

This is the truth. I mean, give me 1 or 2 choice not 20 choices on everything. Life would be much easier.

 

you're looking for an 05 35th anniversary if you want a coupe, 05 GT Roadster if you want a convertible.

The 18 and 19 inch rims package is only for 2006.