I am looking to buy an 03 Z. I just need to sell my 2000 Eclipse GT first. Any takers?? lol

but seriously, I have read up on the 06. are there any major differences between the 03 and the 06. like drive train, suspension, etc. I expect differences in standard vs optional features etc.

 

lots of differences.

* Cost more
* HP gain
* Redesign in style

and blah..blah..

 

ALSO, 03-04 have that tire feathering issue...MAJOR MAJOR PROBLEM! If you get one get 05-06

 

I can't afford an 05-06. only the 03. I think 18k is my limit

 

J....I have a 04 and I don't have anyproblems with it. It also a base model. I am happy I bought the base because I modding it out inside and out. I bet you can find a good base model for a good price. I thought I was going to miss the cruise control, but I don't....good luck on your search....db

 

There are a few minor refreshes like the interior, new wheels, HIDs and LED tails for all 06s. If you want the Z, none of those changes really change how the car performs. Yes the 06 has 13 more HP if you go 6MT, but it has the same 287 with the 5AT. The 06 weighs more and is probably not any faster than the 03-04 Zs. I also bought my 03 Z used, and have no major issues with it. I did have feathering but it doesn't seem to have returned after Nissan fixed it.

 

Aren't the newer Z's a couple hundred pounds heavier too?....db

 

Ok, cool! I knew about the feathering problem, but figured they would have learned how to fix it by now. I will be doing all kinds of modifying to it, so styling isn't a big deal, and with the 06 being a little heavier, the 13hp gain, sounds like it may be offset by weight. a little anyway.

 

Try searching the forum...many 04 and under Zs have window problems too...basically all the Zs have tranny problems...search and you shall find!

 

I've never had any noticable feathering on my 03. Then agian, it was stock for a total of one week when I got it...

 

interesting the main people i see warning people about feathering is those owning Z's that are not 03's. I got an 03 and love it...

 

I have an 03' and the feathering problem was fixed by Nissan and never had to go back. Yes window regulators were replaced twice but no problems since. I have no Transmission issues at 34k miles.

 

I'm also looking to buy a Z. I hear 03 also got many tranny problems..

 

never had no tranny probs, windows yeah im gonna get it fixed first thing tomorrow

 

Only tranny problem I have is the Royal Purple fluid that causes it to grind sometimes if its not warmed up completely.

 

I had a 2000 Eclipse GT and sold it and bought a 2005 35th Ann Edition. You will love the Z compared to the Eclipse. All of the things that the Eclipse does not do the 350 does with ease. Depending on the model and mileage on the Eclipse you should be able to get a good price for it and if you are willing to go with the enthusiast model instead of the touring you should be able to find a 04 or 05 that should fit your price range. I know of one 05 enthusiast owner that did a great job of negotiating and she got it out the door for 23000 and it had less than 10000 miles on it. Good Luck.