All,

I've been searching for an 05 and above Z - anything but the Base trim. I want to avoid the Base trim for two reasons - 1. It lacks the cruise control and 2. It lacks the TCS. This second factor is holding me back. The numerous posts I've heard about skidding, hydroplaning etc etc makes me feel it helps a lott, having the TCS. But I am having a real hard time finding an Enthusiast or (or Track or Performance trim). I think I can live w/o the cruise control.

What do you all say? Should I wait and look around or should I 'compromise' and settle in for the Base? I don't think I can afford the Touring or the GT. (So forget about having the VDC.) I know it's difficult to find one especially during this time of the year.

((But I think I'll need TCS during winter!!!)) Aaargghh...Sorry, my frustration (at not finding my pick) is taking the better of me; and so this post.

 

Definitely wait for the right car and/or deal. If you're going to spend $20k+ you should definitely make sure you're a 100% happy with the car.

 

I've been waiting for exactly what I want. So I would say the same for you.

 

yea i wouldnt worry about VDC but TCS will save your a$$ if you do something stupid. I say hold out for a non base especially if you plan on driving year round!

perhaps the base owners can chime in though

 

You should be glad there is no tcs. If i were you i'd just work on driving skills and get to know your car better. TCS ruins the true driving experience.

 

the opinion of someone without a Z, shouldnt have much influence...






thats why there's an on/off button

 

so do trees.

get the TCS.

 

You have right take. keep looking....................

 

I don’t know which model suits your needs, but I can tell you what members are driving.

 

Ya the trim all depends on the person... I can DEFINETELY live without TCS, VDC, and cruise control (lol)...

I live in Miami and the whether down here is almost always dry except for slight rain so there is no damn need for TCS IMHO... I've had the car for a while now and i have had no scares...

Whatever trim you do end up picking, at the end of the day, your still driving a 350z... and omg is it fun... enjoy and goodluck!

 

you obviously own a Z and know how it handles in the rain

 

I have seen a couple used 05-06 Z's around at the Darcars, Sheehy, and Passport websites.

Ive also seen a couple leftover 06 Z's for a decent price.

Where are you in MD?

Good luck finding your car!

 

 

I would advise you to wait to find the one you want and suits your needs. I should've done the same thing my Z. Right now, Im passing on the 07Z for an 05Z, because its what suits my finances right now. $20k is pretty decent price and keeps the monthly payments a lot lower for me, and most 05's have no more than 25k miles over here, which is perfect.

 

TCS is not going to do jack if you hydroplane. The tires have to have grip on the road for tcs or vdc to work.

I agree with the previous poster learn how to drive your car. You should be able to feel what your car is doing and act accordingly.

Unfortuantely sometimes these electronic controls give people a false sense of security.

Here's a little disclaimer from Nissan's site.

"VDC cannot prevent accidents due to abrupt steering, carelessness, or dangerous driving techniques. Always drive safely."

 

honestly just go with an older Z. i went from a 05 Z to an 03 cuz it's what i could afford =]

 

no probably not, but have you ever taken a hard right when its wet out? instead of the backend being in the bushes the power cuts out and keeps you from looking like an idiot.


obviously you shouldnt be driving like a moron in bad weather but i think most people understand that. And theres also a reason why there's an on off button.

 

Wait you can get the Z with out traction control, god I hated them on the E46's so all I need to do is get a base hmm. Deff look for that when I go to the dealer this coming weekend. I auto X all my car's and DSC killed so much of the performance, but most importantly to me the fun factor. But if you are a new to high end power car's like a Z I recomend you get it.

 

you can turn it off. And you might want an LSD for track use.


driven- has now become a broken record

 

Thanks everyone for your opinions. Agreeing with most ppl, I think I'll wait till I find my desired model.

Yeah, I understand driving habits/skills is what it all comes down to; but why not take advantage of the 'assistance' the technology has to offer?

Thx!