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2003-2009 Nissan 350Z

Enthusiast model worth it? over the base model

Old Aug 26, 2006 | 01:29 AM
  #1  
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Default Enthusiast model worth it? over the base model

So I went through the FAQ and saw the differences between each model...I originally wanted to buy the Base, since it was the cheapest Z...then I read up that the base doesn't come with an LSD? Now, I also see it doesn't come with cruise, TCS, auto dimm, and steering wheel controls

now, I can get away with the steering wheel controls by getting custom audio...the auto dimm is whatever to me...5% tint will take care of that...lol...and the cruise control, i hardly ever use it anyway in my current car....so the big question is....is it worth the $1700 (in MSRP pricing) to upgrade to the enthusiast for the TCS and VLSD??

TCS seems like whatever...I would rather turn it off even if I had it...lol...but the VLSD is a concern...I do want ultimate grip...for track and spirited city driving...but is the stock unit even good? also is it worth it to keep the stock VLSD for warranty? Nismo only has the Rtune, and all others I'm sure are not warranted....

but any input on this topic will be greatly appreciated!
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 01:48 AM
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Worth it for the LSD alone!
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 02:16 AM
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Yes. Members choose the Enthusiast over the Base 2 to 1.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 02:23 AM
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You sure you have the right graph,

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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 02:30 AM
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Originally Posted by zand02max
You sure you have the right graph,

LOL. I am reasonably certain that the graph is accurate.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 02:36 AM
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You sure,


Last edited by zand02max; Aug 26, 2006 at 02:40 AM.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 03:32 AM
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VLSD is junk.

You said so yourself, you can live without all that other stuff, but you want a good LSD. If that's the case, buy a base and upgrade to a quality unit. The difference in price will more than pay for it.

If you decide you want the bells and whistles, go with a higher end model. At the end of the day it will be a Z no matter which model you get. And if you want a quality LSD, you will be replacing the differential regardless of the model.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 06:08 AM
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Originally Posted by steven88
..I originally wanted to buy the Base, since it was the cheapest Z...
It's also the lightest. Invest the savings in a Quaife LSD. You'll have the fastest stock 0-60 Z-model on the road!
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 07:07 AM
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+1 on the Base!
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 07:38 AM
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Dude,

Get the base. In calif, its not that bad. Not too much rain and all.

Tony
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 07:48 AM
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I got the enthusiast because I wanted the TCS due to the winter driving that I'll be doing. I also liked the small changes (auto dimming mirror/homelink, aluminum pedals, steering wheel controls, and cruise). The LSD was another plus and would help in those wintery months also. I really dont plan on tracking the car, but for spirited driving and careful driving (snow & rain), it will help out.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 07:51 AM
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You can also put an aftermarket steering wheel since the OEM one doesn't have controls on it.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 08:38 AM
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Originally Posted by roast
VLSD is junk.

You said so yourself, you can live without all that other stuff, but you want a good LSD. If that's the case, buy a base and upgrade to a quality unit. The difference in price will more than pay for it.

If you decide you want the bells and whistles, go with a higher end model. At the end of the day it will be a Z no matter which model you get. And if you want a quality LSD, you will be replacing the differential regardless of the model.
how is the reliability on the aftermarket units? i ask, becuz if the stock unit goes out, i can get it replaced under warranty...etc
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 09:08 AM
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I have the base unit and I love it.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 09:21 AM
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+1 Base

Base model is great if you'd like to save a little money or build up the car to your liking. My main concern was engine size, and that basically stays the same no matter what trim you get.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 11:02 AM
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Buy an Enthusiast model because it has...

Viscous limited-slip differential - *****

Traction Control System (TCS) - *****

HomeLink® Universal Transceiver

Cruise control - **

Auto-dimming rearview mirror - **

Sun visor extenders

Two 12-volt power outlets - *

Dash mounted storage - *

Lockable rear luggage box - *

Dash-mounted card holder

Cross-drilled aluminum pedals - *

Illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio controls - **
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 11:24 AM
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how come nobody likes the track model just curious?
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 11:32 AM
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From: Okay, see?
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http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/pr...t_nissan_350z/
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 12:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Reyes_USN
how come nobody likes the track model just curious?
Nobody? The Track is more popular than the Performance and Base.
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Old Aug 26, 2006 | 02:03 PM
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From: Okay, see?
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How many years out of date is that graph?
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