Yah, my flame suit is definitely on.

I am pretty new here and considering buying a 350Z.
I know there are 10,000 threads on this, but my searches have turned up irrelevant threads.

Can someone please point me in the right direction to reading each change that came with a a new model year (or half)? Thanks and sorry for the repost!

 

The basics of the car really have not changed much from the 2003 first year model. Just bells & whistles in my opinion. I'd focus on low miles, evidence of good care, and color/features you want. Though my 03 has been problem free I'd get an 04 or later.

 

Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: Seattle
Posts: 17
iTrader:

 

I don't know much about the roadster, but for the coupe here's what I can say.

03-05 are basically the same.
Except in 05, there's an Anniversary Edition with more HP (300) but less Torque.

06+, all Manual Zs have the 300HP engine, but all Automatic Zs still have the same 287HP engine. Bi-Xexon headlights and LED tail/brake lights. New interior layout. New 18" front and 19" rear RAYS wheels with 245/40 front and 265/35 rear tires for the Track and Grand Touring models only. More cup holders (4). Also a very minor front bumper change that only the hardcore Z owners will notice.

These are the major visible changes, there are also some color changes.

 

I'd personally steer clear of 03's. You've probably read about the random issues like feathering, manual transmission probs, window grease, failing window motors and regulators, etc. Many of the issues were resolved in the 04+ model years. The 03 Z got pegged w/a much worse than average reliability rating in the April 06 Consumer Reports auto issue while the 04 seems average and 05 is better than avg. so far.

If you're ok with an automatic (don't shoot me), they seem more reliable than the manuals. I've never had a problem w/my auto and I don't think I've seen many/any problem reports w/those. Also FWIW, both the power window motors and regulators failed on my 04. I got them replaced under warranty.

Personally, I wouldn't risk first model year car from any maker other than Honda, Toyota, Acura or Lexus.