SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

Hey guys,

I currently own a 2006 Nissan Altima SE-R (with roughly 25k miles). Unfortunately, I'm just not feeling the thrills anymore and was looking to upgrade to a 2007 Grand Toruing 350Z.

I had a few questions first.

- Im 6'4, will I be able to sit comfortably in the car without crouching or just looking foolish?

- I drive roughly 40 miles a day (95% highway) to my university, is this car reliable and durable as a daily driver?

- Any other information you guys can provide is greatly appreciated.

P.S. If your wondering why I'm trading, the Altima has completely lost its luster for me and I have had frequent problems with it.

mostlypeaceful

My comments are based on my experiences with my 2008 GT.

1. Sit in one for awhile at the dealership and see. I'm 6'/175lbs and I fit fine in mine. I've taken it on a 3 hour road trip before without issues. It's no Towncar however.

2. The GT has 18/9 and 19/10 tires on it. There is a decent amount of road noise and you will definitely feel connected to the pavement. My car is a weekend/evening car since I pay to carpool to work with someone.

3. The GT is basically the T with different brakes and rims, plus I think the boot spoiler. Make sure you like the whole package as is, otherwise you may as well get a T and add-on later.

I got the nav and extra airbags. The nav is nice, but isn't always that useful.

SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

The Altima had some hefty road noise as well.

Im just asking if it will be bearable on this kind of daily commute.

Also, I'm going on Wednesday to test drive the exact car (2007 Grand Touring Black/Black) so I will see how comfortable and such it is.

Any other information?

Clipdin

iTrader: (18)

I'm 6'2" and I was amazed that I could fit nicely in my 07 touring model. You definitely need to take it for a test drive though, to feel the "fit".
Not sure how your extra 2" will affect your fit and comfort.

You WILL fall in love with how the car drives, I guarantee it!!

Mine is my daily driver. It takes me a half hour each way to work and back. And oh yeah, I just came back from ZDAYZ, an 8 hour drive for me one way. Had no problem at all.

The only thing I worry about for you is your weather. AKA SNOW! I have an old truck that I use when it (rarely) snows down here in VA.

Good luck, and let us know how the test drive goes.

Bumpinjeep

iTrader: (3)

I dont know, my back hurts after driving too long so i suggest driving one for a little while and see how you feel.

davidv

iTrader: (2)

If you are looking for a reliable daily driver there are better choices than a performance sports car. Whatever you were spending on the Altima for routine maintenance, repairs and tires, double it for a 350Z.

Location: New York

EDIT: Just noticed New York. New York means snow!

SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

So I'm guessing this is not the best for a daily driver? Haha

Kinda destroys my plans

johns350

I use mine as a daily driver and enjoy it. Yes - the ride is firm - but I'm OK with that. It really is a personal opinion if you are OK w/the ride and the road noise. BUT - I would choose another vehicle if I had to drive in the snow on a regular basis (used to live in NJ - bought the ZR after moving to DFW TX!)

Thanks!

SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

Thanks for your input.

On snowy days, I would have alternative transportation (train and my parents have 4WD cars)

Also, this past winter only saw a few days of heavy snow so I dont foresee too large of a problem.

The ride on my Altima is harsh now (potholes make my skin shake and teeth clatter).

Any other information is appreciated.

usmanasif

iTrader: (4)

I cannot add much more than what others have said, but being 6'3" and 240lbs (athletic), I have no issues fitting in the Z and there are a few inches of headroom still available.

You cannot take our testimony as evidence of your experience though. People can have unusual legs:torso ratios. Test drive a Z to find out if it works for you.

Shadrackc

I'm 6' 2" and 210 lbs and fit great. I have longer legs and there is no problem with having room. Fits like a glove. I have a bit of head clearance but best thing is to sit in it. I don't find a BMW Z3 comfortable for example. Knee rubs up against the steering wheel on the left. Feels claustraphobic.

HKS-Z

iTrader: (1)

6'6" i drive my z everyday.even in snow.I'm really comfortable in it,even long trips-except in the summer,heat from the exhaust will make you sweat!.Other than tires,the car really dosent cost much to maintain.I think it gets respectable mpg's for a 300+hp car.

Slow*Jim

iTrader: (5)

Im 6'0" with long legs and even with the seat adjusted as far back as it will go, I'd like it to be able to go another inch or so back. Honestly I don't think you would be comfortable in a Z if you are taller than 6'3" or so. I have an 04 Touring with the cushy leather seats and my *** starts getting sore after about an hour a half. Drove back from Putnam Park in Indiana this past weekend and it sucked. After 4 hours I wanted a G35

Shadrackc

Hmmmm, not my experience Slow Jim. I have driven for 4 hours with no issue at all, and as far as the seat going back, I have mine up a bit from the back and I have a 34" inseam. Guess it depends on the person. I find it one of the most comfortable cars to drive long distance.

EZ E

My 6' 3" neighbor drives a Lotus Exige and has daily driven it for a few years with no complaints. The point is, if you like the car enough you will find a way to fit in it

SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

Thanks alot for the input guys!

I am test driving a 2007 Grand Touring tomorrow in the morning so I will post feedback!

gmueip

iTrader: (8)

I use my 05 Touring as a daily driver and have had no problems with it so far. I even took it to ZdayZ form Northern VA and back without a single problem.

lgear080

iTrader: (21)

Surprised no one mentioned mileage/gas... You're in for some
larger bills at the pump for sure. How bad... hard to tell as I
am not going to work out the details. Clearly fitment of driver
is a non-issue as everyone chimed in above. If you're super serious,
as it sounds you are - ask the dealer to let you have the car for a
day or two for a real test drive.

LL

Key Of Z

I'm 6'3" and my '07 T feels very comfortable. Almost plush. Of course I spent four years in my S2000 before I got the Z.
It makes a fine daily driver if, like me, having fun when you drive is a priority.
I'm a fan of the firm ride and the "connected" feel of the car. I enjoy the Z so much, I try to drive it as much as possible. I have the truck for the NY winters.
With a set of Blizzaks, this car would be OK in snow. I just couldn't live with all the salt and sand they use around here. As far as reliability, it should
serve you as well as any other Nissan. Give it the best care you can and don't beat the hell out of it and your odds should be good.
Good luck with your decision.
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SERto350Z

iTrader: (3)

Thanks alot for all the input guys. I feel a lot better about the upcoming purchase.

As I said before, I have an appointment tomorrow to have a test drive.

Will they let me take it home for a few days being that I am only 20 years old?

I mean, I do want to purchase the vehicle of course lol