I got a Z because it was the best combination of everything I wanted--power, price and reliability (but not practicality) that was out, that I could buy new.

About the S2000 being fun to drive, I may actually prefer the MX-5 to cheap daily driving fun. It's revvier in the lower RPMs and a bit lighter.

 

I test drove the BmW 1 series, both trim levels and in both manual and automatic w/ paddle shift. I test drove a 3 series once and the 1 series 3 times. I test drove an 08 350z , 6 speed manual. The 350z, manual shifted better for me than the BMW1, I bought the 2008 350Z base model. Not to say that the BMW is not a fine sports coupe. I definatley got my moneys worth. Of course I understand others may have different experiences when driving, this is just mine.

 

I had a 02 S2000 when the 350Z came out.. and IMHO they were "the" perfect competition for each other.. good handling, reasonably fast etc etc.. and since I had the S2000, the 350Z was my "enemy" now since I traded the S2000 in on an 03 Cobra, I don't go out of my way to race the 350Z since they are not in the same category..(atleast as far as acceleration goes) but it would be fun to go canyon carving with one..

 

Most people like my car, when asked what I drive, and I respond "350Z" I normally get a positive response.

I should have bought a Vette though.

 

 

I would think canyon carving in an S2000 was more fun

I should have bought an E46 M3

 

Honestly I think it is because the 350z is a car you have that has to grow on you before you like it, or at least drive it once. I know I hated the 350z, but loved the 300zx, then after seeing the Z more and more I came to love it. Also I think there is a driver stereotype for Z drivers (which is mostly untrue), like people think everyone who drives a BMW M3 is a *****, even though I'm sure there are awesome people who drive them.

Right now I drive a 99 Eclipse, and I'm so embarrassed of it, I wont even take it to any car "meets" even though It's in better condition than 90% of the cars there.

Hopefully I will have a 350z sometime next week, I can't wait!

 

smartest thing said yet, its a vette with a v6.. but more dependable, i've owned both. to me best two cars in there price range

 

I actually had an IS300 prior to my Z. At the time, I was infatuated with the 2JZ and its possibilities. Plus I loved the look and ride of the IS300. Moving into the Z, the only thing I've lost is the soft ride. For a sport sedan with an agressive suspension, the IS300 rode like a dream. BUT..... The power, handling, and overall appearance of the Z far outweights the smooth ride of the IS and the Z is a MAJOR step up. I love my Z, and would highly recommend to the OP to go get themself a Z and start TRULEY enjoying the driving experience!

 

I wish I could have both. I think they are both great cars and I don't see why they have to be competition. I usually give a nod to someone in an S2000 because I know they have good taste in cars.

I like the way the MX-5 handles, but I can't get past the look. Ugly little car.

 

Yeah i love my Z... my friend has an s2k... and loves my Z because he doesnt have to run the **** out of it to go fast... i never had anyone really hate on my Z well to my face haha... but i had a friend tell me he would take the 2door Altima over my Z any day and would keep up with me with no problem... i just laughed..

 

Whoa! I had no idea my thread was resurrected!

Sadly, I still don't have a 350Z I sold the IS300 two months ago though and since been driving a 96 Acura Integra for 2 months learning stick shift so I don't fry the clutch on a Z on my first attempt to drive one haha. The temporary plates on the Acura expired (2 months only) so now I'm driving a manual 98 Isuzu Amigo hahah

The reason I've been waiting so long is because the prices of cars in this economy have plummeted so much--now is the time to buy your dream!

You don't know how hilarious going to work in a suit then jump out of an Isuzu Amigo looks like from a 3rd person perspective. Oh well, it'll make me appreciate the Z much more when I get it

2 months of no radio, no music in a car is torture though. No one should go through that

 

Good write up And responses from the members I have owned 240 thru 350Z's and the C4 Corvette and C5 vette. Overall my all time favorite is my 350Z considering everything Dollar for Dollar it has been the best. the feel of driving the car is different from anything else. The Z has been the best bang for the buck and funnest car overall. I think it has been a complete package and the fact that I found a shop here in Dallas that has been unbelievable with every option of what I want to do with the car has made it a complete satisfaction package.

Mark

 

I suppose I predate you with my Z ownership, however this time around I let my wife test drive all the cars in the price range we were looking to buy and hands down she said buy the bloody Z. It was a unique experience for her to drive it compare to the others which I will not mention.

 

I love my 350z! Handling and acceleration great. Great value for the price. The S2000 is a close competitor but more money. The Mustang GT is close too but the quality is not there. The z is 100% assembled in Japan, better quality better car!

 

some are now made in Canada and some even in Mexico (i think)
there is a little plate inside your engine bay that will let you know where yours was registered

 

Right on Bro!! Awesome review

 

A sweet power band--especially low-end torque--, superb handling, reasonable MPG, reliability, easy access for oil changes, reasonable price...All make the Z an outstanding Sports Car. Of course, there ARE more powerful ones, cuter ones, cheaper ones, etc. But the thing with the Z is that it has the right combination of qualities that make it accessible to the middle class Sports Car lover--specially reliability & price!

 

awesome review, couldn't have said it any better myself =]

 

Go "Z"!!!