sound deading, wheels, extra upholstrey, upgraded tranny (maybe?)....HID balast :-D...bigger tires for the bigger wheels...

 

No pictures, but the '06s have much less engine drone compared to earlier models.

 

I could agree with sound deadening, and extra upholstery. The probably put more crash beams in the doors etc....

But the wheels aren't any heavier than the only performance/touring 18 inch bricks. The transmission isn't going to weigh more even if they make it "better". And did you forget that all previous models besides the base Z have always had HIDs?? The only models with bigger tires and wheels are the Track and grand touring I believe. Slightly bigger wheels and tires aren't going to add more than 10-20lbs anyway.

Doesn't really make sense that the new base model weighs over 100lbs more than my 03 Touring model...but hey...$hit happens.

 

The new 350z has a heavier bumper and grille. Electronically is a lot more complex with more air bags, cruise and TC than the 03 base model. My 03 car doesn't even have the vanity mirrors on the passenger side. Electronic nannies make any car heavier and more expensive to repair. Also adds issues during modding.

 

I was interested to see what the factory did since I am trying to quiet my '05 some for improvements to my stereo install. I was guessing that the most noise comes from the hatch so if I am still wanting a quieter ride after doing that I guess I should look into the firewall and hood if it is engine drone that they addressed. I never really noticed it before but I guess it is there. Thanks for the tip, I probably would not have looked into that area. Most have lots of success treating the trunk, behind the seats above the gas tank, doors, and the real ambitious do under the carpet, front wheel wells, hood, etc.

 

I will agree that my 06' is very quiet compared to previous years. I dont mind that its 200 lbs heavier, it just gives me a good enough reason to lighten it now.

 

Heavier plastic bumper and grille?? I'll toss you 10lbs there just for fun. As for EVERYTHING else you listed...my 03 Touring model has ALL of that (side and curtain airbags, cruise and VDC, lighted vanity mirrors on both sides, and even a nav system) and my car is STILL over 100lbs lighter than a 06 BASE model.

 

True. I just feel that electronics have a way of getting heavier over time. Thats just my opinion. Im not gonna argue with an 11 sec. Z. But I just compare that 06 with my base 03 and its so much more complicated that kills the rawness aspect of it. Its almost as if they wanted to change demographical markets to involve women now. Sorry!

 

its not a midget, but a monkey...under the trunk. if u get pulled over, u press the latch buttom and the monkey comes out and hits the cop over the head. whos seen that commercial?? hilarious!!

 

LOL ... I can already here the ladies coming into this thread and giving you a flaming!!!



*crickets*


Oh well, Nissan has to fund the GTR somewhow.

 

I guess I don't think too much about the base models...it just amazes me that the higher models that really don't have anything "new" besides slightly bigger wheels/tires and some extra interior trim weigh so much more.

 

does nissan do automated frame gluing? maybe its in the manufacturing process...

 

I do know that the 03 Track Rays are 7 pounds lighter than the 03 base model and the car is still a lot heavier. So maybe wheels is not the issue.