Daddy

The only option that I'm interested is the HID headlights. So I'm interested in getting the Enthusiast model. Don't think I really need the CD changer and stuffs like that. I like the brembo brakes though but just can't afford them.

I was in the Santa Monica Nissan Dealer last night when I talked to a salesperson about getting my Z in a short time. After a series of ********, we came to the topic which model should I get. My budget is tight and can't afford those models above the Enthusiast. He asked me what am I interested in the Enthusiast model. I said "well, coz I wanna have HID, actually I don't really need the TCS(Traction Control System)." Then he suggested me simply to buy the HID from them which COSTS ONLY 40 BUCKS EACH? I was like "wtf? 40 bucks for the HIDs?"

So I'm now curious on why are they so cheap? For some very general HID systems they would probably cost like 400-500 at least. But now 80 for both? I asked couple times, but he sounded like so sure of what I was asking about. So I wanna ask those who have HIDs in their Z about how they look? I mean are they real HIDs? Or just some kinds of halogen blubs which have HID looks?

TJZ

The factory HIDs can not be purchased as an option. It only comes included in the respective models. HIDs from the aftermarket usually cost in the 500 range. Maybe he was going to put in some blue lights for you and think that you wouldnt notice?

SKiDaZZLe

be careful.. you can get altima hids to plug and play into a non-hid altima. my brother bought a set for around $150-$200. it is a genuine nissan part.

m

tbcz

Definately sounds like he is trying to pass off pseudo-HID halogen bulbs as the real thing. The HID lights on the enthusiast model are the real thing. They look awesome. The projector lens in the below photo is actually several inches in front of the HID lamp...which is too damn bright for me to look at directly...they look unlike any other headlights I have ever seen...very cool.

tbcz

Another pic...

tbcz

As far as how they look in use to the driver, they are awesome. Not very blue, except when you first turn them on...then they transition to a pretty pure white after a minute. They spread the most even field of light I have seen in a headlight though...across a very wide angle. Not much in the way of hot spots or drop outs anywhere in their range.

jasonintoronto

there are only two types of HID bulbs - the d2r and d2s. they're made by various companies like philips, osram, etc. bulbs are around $100 each.

if you want HID in your model, you will need two bulbs and two ballasts. however, the bulbs won't fit in your car. i'm not sure what the stock halogen bulb is, but you'll need a d2s* bulb with a base similar to the halogen one. i've done this on my a4.

a kit with debased bulbs, ballasts, and wires should run about 300-400.

the bulbs the dealer was referring to are "blue" halogen bulbs - they don't even come close to the output of real HID.

*i'm aware that the HID in 350z uses d2r bulbs, but that's just wrong. it should be d2s for projection bulb installations - d2r is for reflective.

Daddy

So what kinda HIDs were used in 350Z? i mean what k or what color it gives?

SKiDaZZLe

4300K D2R

Dr Bonz

iTrader: (1)

Someone mentioned "halogen" above. The 350Z's HID's are Xenon not halogen. Maybe I misunderstood.

I would agree on how great these lights are though. After driving the Z around for three months then going back to my Stealth after I garaged the Z for the winter, MAN can you tell the difference. It's like (if you'll excuse the pun) NIGHT AND DAY!

ares

iTrader: (2)

not sure if your aware, but in addition to HID, TCS(a damn good thing to have in this car), you also get LSD, cruise control, lighted mirrors, home link, auto dim mirror... ect. there are numerous upgrades from base to enth. unless you plan to totally upgrade the car, or ABSOLUTELY cant afford the enth. it is the best bargain IMO.

Phi-1002-

Go with enthusiast.

If you drive the car in weather colder than 50 deg-F you'll thank yourself for getting TCS and VLSD.

My Track's an absolute beast on the RE040's in the Michigan cold. I haven't even considered turning off the VDC for normal driving in the 400 miles I've had the car.

jasonintoronto

i mention halogen because that's what the base model gets and he wants to upgrade. not all z's get HID.

blackS

...quick Question then, are the Maxima, Altima and 350Z HID kits the same (what type of light bulbs are used in each??).
SKIDAZZLE,
where did your brother buy the Altima kit for $200...that's a real good price....